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Counselling and Guidance Services

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The Counselling and Guidance Centre is here to help you address personal or emotional challenges that may affect you while studying or working in Makerere University. The Counselling and Guidance Centre works closely with all university units to enable students realize their academic and personal potential and to assist staff in addressing psychological issues that may affect them in living worthy and productive lives. The service is offered by professionally trained and experienced counselling psychologists. Counselling is free and confidential.

Location
The Makerere University Counselling and Guidance centre (CGC) is currently located at the University Hospital occupying offices 22,23,24,25 the lower part of the hospital premises. (The location is to change soon to plot 106 Mary Stuart Road opposite Mary Stuart Hall).

Brief History
The Counselling and Guidance services were started on a voluntally basis in the mid 1970’s where some staff decided to come out and offer free services to students. In 1987, the service was officially set up within the university but it was until January 2005, when the centre obtained formal council recognition as an autonomous unit during the 100th meeting of the University Council held on 15th December and 19th January 2005. The centre currently has three staff members and in the process of recruiting more five.

Mandate
The Counselling and Guidance centre is mandated to provide quality counselling and guidance services to the Makerere University community i.e students and staff and their families. The centre is also charged with the responsibility of overseeing the counselling and guidance services within the university. The centre is also mandated to carry out research on issues affecting peoples’ lives particularly those in the university community or prospective students (where need be).

Vision
To have wholesome members of Makerere University community

Mission
To provide professional counselling and guidance services to students and staff so as to achieve personal and educational goal.

Services
The centre provides services to enhance academic success and further educational goals for Makerere University students. The Counselling and Guidance Centre provides several services these include:

  • Individual Counselling
  • Career Guidance and Counselling
  • Academic support services
  • Group Counselling
  • Organising outreaches to halls of residence and hostels
  • Organising seminars and workshops for students and staff
  • Self-help print and online materials
  • Staff services

Staff also need support from the Counselling and Guidance Centre. Their issues and services may be different from those of students but may equally affect their productivity at the University. The centre staff is also available to consult with administrative offices, faculty and staff about issues affecting staff and student welfare and development.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Counselling?
Counselling has diverse definitions but there are common elements in all definitions. Counselling is concerned with using psychological principles to enhance and promote the positive growth, well-being, mental health of individuals, families, groups and broader community. Counselling is generally done with well adjusted people and therefore it is meant to foster or improve the normal functioning of an individual by helping one solve problems, make decisions and cope with stresses of everyday life. It looks at helping the individual accomplish life tasks, and facilitate personal development. It enhances human potential and quality of life across the lifespan. It uses remedial, preventive and educational/developmental interventions while addressing emotional, cognitive, behavioural and interpersonal difficulties.

How do I know I need counselling?
Questions, choices, concerns and changes are all a normal part of life. Sometimes we can work through them on our own or with the help of friends and family. Sometimes, they can feel too private, overwhelming or complicated to share with someone we know. The people who provide us support can also be part of what’s bothering you. When this is case, talking to a professional can provide a safe, neutral, confidential setting to explore your concerns and move toward making changes to improve your situation.

Is counselling confidential?
University Counseling Center records are confidential and not part of or connected in any way to your academic records. There are, however, some exceptions to confidentiality. Counselors are required by law to release certain information in situations that involve harm to yourself or others, in instances of child or elder abuse, or as a result of a court order.

What are some of the reasons students and staff seek counselling?

  • Concerns about relationships
  • Problems with school or studying
  • Work relations
  • Work/home related stress
  • Questions about your future
  • Adjusting to university life and being away from home
  • Wanting to improve your family relationships
  • Wanting to be more assertive or improve your self-confidence
  • Consuming alcohol or other drugs more than you’d like
  • Difficulty balancing all the demands of student life
  • Thinking about ending your life
  • Grieving over the death of someone close to you
  • Difficulty taking care of your normal ‘day to day’ life
  • Concerned about someone close to you
  • Recovering from unwanted sexual contact or violence
  • Carrying a secret that you’ve never told anyone, but wish you could

etc
It is also okay if you don’t know exactly what you want to address, we can help you figure that out as well.

How do I know I need individual or group counselling?
When you speak with a counselor during your initial assessment, the counselor will discuss with you the different services available and his/her recommendations given your particular situation.

What are the qualifications of the Counselling and Guidance STAFF?

Our staff includes Counselling psychologists and counsellors. We also refer clients for medical and psychiatric services in case it is needed.

Is there charge for services?
There is no charge for these services. All services are entirely free of charge.

Do I need to make an appointment?
No. During the working hours there will always be somebody to offer you service. However, in case you need an appointment with a particular staff you will be free to make

Opening times 8:30am – 5:00pm Monday to Friday.

Counselling and Guidance Centre (CGC) Staff

Currently the centre has 3 full time professional staff and two support staff. We are soon getting more psychologists. Their details may be viewed by clicking the link below

Back to the Counselling and Guidance Centre  


The Counselling and Guidance Centre is here to help you address personal or emotional challenges that may affect you while studying or working in Makerere University. The Counselling and Guidance Centre works closely with all university units to enable students realize their academic and personal potential and to assist staff in addressing psychological issues that may affect them in living worthy and productive lives. The service is offered by professionally trained and experienced counselling psychologists. Counselling is free and confidential.

Location
The Makerere University Counselling and Guidance centre (CGC) is currently located at the University Hospital occupying offices 22,23,24,25 the lower part of the hospital premises. (The location is to change soon to plot 106 Mary Stuart Road opposite Mary Stuart Hall).

Brief History
The Counselling and Guidance services were started on a voluntally basis in the mid 1970’s where some staff decided to come out and offer free services to students. In 1987, the service was officially set up within the university but it was until January 2005, when the centre obtained formal council recognition as an autonomous unit during the 100th meeting of the University Council held on 15th December and 19th January 2005. The centre currently has three staff members and in the process of recruiting more five.

Mandate
The Counselling and Guidance centre is mandated to provide quality counselling and guidance services to the Makerere University community i.e students and staff and their families. The centre is also charged with the responsibility of overseeing the counselling and guidance services within the university. The centre is also mandated to carry out research on issues affecting peoples’ lives particularly those in the university community or prospective students (where need be).

Vision
To have wholesome members of Makerere University community

Mission
To provide professional counselling and guidance services to students and staff so as to achieve personal and educational goal.

Services
The centre provides services to enhance academic success and further educational goals for Makerere University students. The Counselling and Guidance Centre provides several services these include:

  • Individual Counselling
  • Career Guidance and Counselling
  • Academic support services
  • Group Counselling
  • Organising outreaches to halls of residence and hostels
  • Organising seminars and workshops for students and staff
  • Self-help print and online materials
  • Staff services

Staff also need support from the Counselling and Guidance Centre. Their issues and services may be different from those of students but may equally affect their productivity at the University. The centre staff is also available to consult with administrative offices, faculty and staff about issues affecting staff and student welfare and development.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Counselling?
Counselling has diverse definitions but there are common elements in all definitions. Counselling is concerned with using psychological principles to enhance and promote the positive growth, well-being, mental health of individuals, families, groups and broader community. Counselling is generally done with well adjusted people and therefore it is meant to foster or improve the normal functioning of an individual by helping one solve problems, make decisions and cope with stresses of everyday life. It looks at helping the individual accomplish life tasks, and facilitate personal development. It enhances human potential and quality of life across the lifespan. It uses remedial, preventive and educational/developmental interventions while addressing emotional, cognitive, behavioural and interpersonal difficulties.

How do I know I need counselling?
Questions, choices, concerns and changes are all a normal part of life. Sometimes we can work through them on our own or with the help of friends and family. Sometimes, they can feel too private, overwhelming or complicated to share with someone we know. The people who provide us support can also be part of what’s bothering you. When this is case, talking to a professional can provide a safe, neutral, confidential setting to explore your concerns and move toward making changes to improve your situation.

Is counselling confidential?
University Counseling Center records are confidential and not part of or connected in any way to your academic records. There are, however, some exceptions to confidentiality. Counselors are required by law to release certain information in situations that involve harm to yourself or others, in instances of child or elder abuse, or as a result of a court order.

What are some of the reasons students and staff seek counselling?

  • Concerns about relationships
  • Problems with school or studying
  • Work relations
  • Work/home related stress
  • Questions about your future
  • Adjusting to university life and being away from home
  • Wanting to improve your family relationships
  • Wanting to be more assertive or improve your self-confidence
  • Consuming alcohol or other drugs more than you’d like
  • Difficulty balancing all the demands of student life
  • Thinking about ending your life
  • Grieving over the death of someone close to you
  • Difficulty taking care of your normal ‘day to day’ life
  • Concerned about someone close to you
  • Recovering from unwanted sexual contact or violence
  • Carrying a secret that you’ve never told anyone, but wish you could

etc
It is also okay if you don’t know exactly what you want to address, we can help you figure that out as well.

How do I know I need individual or group counselling?
When you speak with a counselor during your initial assessment, the counselor will discuss with you the different services available and his/her recommendations given your particular situation.

What are the qualifications of the Counselling and Guidance STAFF?

Our staff includes Counselling psychologists and counsellors. We also refer clients for medical and psychiatric services in case it is needed.

Is there charge for services?
There is no charge for these services. All services are entirely free of charge.

Do I need to make an appointment?
No. During the working hours there will always be somebody to offer you service. However, in case you need an appointment with a particular staff you will be free to make

Opening times 8:30am – 5:00pm Monday to Friday.

Counselling and Guidance Centre (CGC) Staff

Currently the centre has 3 full time professional staff and two support staff. We are soon getting more psychologists. Their details may be viewed by clicking the link below

Back to the Counselling and Guidance Centre  

Denis Wamala

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Change of Course/Programme for Undergraduate Admissions 2025/2026

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The Office of the Academic Registrar, Makerere University has released lists for the recommended for change of course/ programme for Degree/Diploma Scheme and Direct entry for Private/Government sponsored students for the Academic Year 2025/2026.

The lists released can be accessed by following the respective links below:

Elias Tuhereze

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Makerere Signs Open MoU with London School of Economics and Political Science

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Seated Left to Right: Dr. Richard Newfarmer, Dr. Jonathan Leape, Dr. Sarah Sewanyana, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Prof. Ibrahim Mike Okumu and Prof. James Wokadala with other officials (Standing) after the MoU signing on 27th August 2025. Makerere University, through the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) and the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC), has signed an open Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), 27th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University, through the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) and the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC), has signed an open Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). This MoU is one of several initiatives aimed at strengthening the university’s global collaborations and research partnerships.

In his remarks, Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe highlighted Makerere’s recent centenary celebrations as a testament to its long and influential history in Africa. He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to serious, research-driven collaboration, noting Makerere’s aspiration to become a leading student-centered research university that develops solutions to regional challenges.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe makes his remarks ahead of the MoU signing. Makerere University, through the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) and the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC), has signed an open Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), 27th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe makes his remarks ahead of the MoU signing.

Prof. Nawangwe emphasized that Makerere’s research addresses critical issues such as widespread poverty, high youth unemployment, the devastating effects of climate change on agriculture, rapid population growth, and political interference in production. These challenges, he explained, call for climate-resilient agriculture, stronger health systems to address emerging diseases, and more inclusive governance. He further observed that Africa’s ambitious goal of producing one million PhDs in the next decade remains constrained by inadequate supervision capacity across the continent, stressing that collaborations like this MoU are key to bridging that gap.

EPRC Executive Director, Dr. Sarah Sewanyana, described the signing as particularly significant for EPRC and its Board of Directors as they embark on a new five-year strategic plan (2025/26–2029/30). She explained that the plan strongly emphasizes strategic collaborations, with this partnership serving as a prime example of leveraging collective strengths to deepen impact. She underscored EPRC’s role in advancing evidence-based policymaking for national development, aligning with Uganda’s National Development Plan IV.

The partners show off the signed MoU. Makerere University, through the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) and the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC), has signed an open Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), 27th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The partners show off the signed MoU.

Prof. James Wokadala, Acting Principal of CoBAMS, emphasized that the collaboration seeks to preserve and expand vital human knowledge while strengthening partnerships between academic institutions and global research networks. He noted that these networks are instrumental in advising legal and policy professionals, as well as aligning research agendas with both national and corporate priorities. He expressed pride in the extensive efforts of the School of Economics that have expanded these activities in recent years. He pointed to significant accomplishments that have been achieved in collaboration with IGC, including hosting a 2025 high-level international conference on mobile money payment systems, which positioned Makerere University as a thought leader on critical African economic issues. He also celebrated the successful bid by the School of Economics to host the ‘Africa Meeting of the Econometric Society’ in 2027, further demonstrating its contribution to impactful scholarship and policy influence.

The Acting Principal further emphasized that the new partnership with LSE will build on these achievements, offering immense benefits such as expanding capacity-building opportunities for faculty and students, especially in research and Public Infrastructure Management (PIM). The collaboration will also provide platforms for knowledge dissemination and policy dialogue, while addressing pressing socio-economic and health challenges. Ultimately, he said, formalisation of the partnership amplifies CoBAMS’ commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and innovation.

Speaking on behalf of LSE’s International Growth Centre (IGC), Executive Director Dr. Jonathan Leape expressed delight at formalizing the long-standing collaboration with Makerere and EPRC. He highlighted current joint projects, including research on the impact of the 2020 gender-based vaccine program on women’s skills and learning, studies on reforms in STEM education, and investigations into barriers limiting business growth for entrepreneurs. He stressed that the core mission is to bring researchers and policymakers together to address pressing policy challenges with robust, reliable evidence and innovative solutions.

Prof. Nawangwe presents a souvenir Mak Necktie to Dr. Jonathan Leape. Makerere University, through the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) and the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC), has signed an open Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), 27th August 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Nawangwe presents a souvenir Mak Necktie to Dr. Jonathan Leape.

The event, held on 27th August 2025, was attended by several dignitaries including Dr. Richard Newfarmer, Country Director for Uganda and Rwanda (IGC); Dr. Nhial Kuch, Senior Country Economist (IGC); and Mary Teddy Nakyejwe, IGC Programme Officer. Also present were the Director of Research, Dr. Ibrahim Kasirye and other members of EPRC leadership.

Eve Nakyanzi
Eve Nakyanzi

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Makerere University Hosts Delegation from Ghent University Association

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Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Right) presents a Makerere Coffee Table book to Prof. Mieke Van Herreweghe during the visit on 27th August 2025. Makerere University hosted a delegation from the Ghent University Association where a student exchange agreement was signed, led by Prof. Mieke Van Herreweghe, Vice Rector of Ghent University. The delegation included representatives from Howest University and Hogent University of Applied Sciences, 27th August 2025 Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University has hosted a delegation from the Ghent University Association, led by Prof. Mieke Van Herreweghe, Vice Rector of Ghent University. The delegation included representatives from Howest University and Hogent University of Applied Sciences.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe welcomed the team and highlighted Makerere University’s commitment to addressing the pressing challenges in the region. These include climate change, which continues to hinder investment, and Uganda’s rapidly growing population that has surged from 5 million in the late 1940s to nearly 50 million currently, creating socio-economic challenges such as high youth unemployment.

He emphasized that Makerere’s research agenda focuses on understanding the fast-growing population, tackling health challenges, advancing governance and human rights, and fostering peace through initiatives such as the Rotary Peace Center—the only one of its kind on the African continent. Research at Makerere also seeks to provide solutions to youth unemployment in one of the world’s youngest nations.

The meeting of Members of Management and the visiting delegation in session in the Vice Chancellor's Boardroom. Makerere University hosted a delegation from the Ghent University Association where a student exchange agreement was signed, led by Prof. Mieke Van Herreweghe, Vice Rector of Ghent University. The delegation included representatives from Howest University and Hogent University of Applied Sciences, 27th August 2025 Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The meeting of Members of Management and the visiting delegation in session in the Vice Chancellor’s Boardroom.

The Vice Chancellor further noted that Makerere University teaches and conducts research across a wide spectrum of disciplines, organized into colleges including Agriculture, Business and Management, Computing, Education and External Studies, Engineering and Technology, Health Sciences, Humanities and Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, and Veterinary Medicine. The university also hosts over 60 specialized research centers, among them Centers of Excellence such as the Regional Centre for Crop Improvement, which works to enhance food security, manage pests and diseases, and improve agricultural productivity. Another key institution is the Infectious Diseases Institute, which leads research on HIV/AIDS. With these initiatives, he added, Makerere continues to expand its research footprint while strengthening global partnerships.

Prof. Van Herreweghe provided an overview of Ghent University, founded in 1817 and ranked among the top 100 universities globally for decades. With its motto “Dare to think,” Ghent University has built a strong international reputation. It also holds the distinction of being the only Belgian, and currently the only European, university with a campus in South Korea. Established in 2014, the campus offers bachelor’s programs in applied biotechnology.

She highlighted Ghent’s joint PhD programs, which are structured as sandwich programs to support African universities. Under this arrangement, PhD candidates spend two years funded at Ghent University and another two years at their home university (such as Makerere), with joint supervision from both institutions. These programs, she noted, are a strategic way of fostering international collaboration.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and Prof. Mieke Van Herreweghe pose for a group photo with members of their respective teams at the Main Building entrance. Makerere University hosted a delegation from the Ghent University Association where a student exchange agreement was signed, led by Prof. Mieke Van Herreweghe, Vice Rector of Ghent University. The delegation included representatives from Howest University and Hogent University of Applied Sciences, 27th August 2025 Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and Prof. Mieke Van Herreweghe pose for a group photo with members of their respective teams at the Main Building entrance.

During the visit, Ghent University signed a Student Exchange Agreement with Makerere University to complement the existing Memorandum of Understanding. The agreement will pave the way for more joint initiatives and strengthen collaboration in the years ahead.

The delegation also included Mr. Lieven Theys, International Coordinator for Business Management at Howest University, who explained that Howest clusters its programs into three key domains: Design and Technology, Human Well-being and Health, and Business and Organization. Dr. Robin Stevens represented Hogent University of Applied Sciences, which runs programs across nine schools including Business and Management, Computer Sciences, Biosciences, Industrial Technology, Teacher Training, and Healthcare.

The visit, held on 27th August 2025, was attended by Makerere University officials and members of various colleges, among them Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration) and Principal of the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Prof. Tonny Oyana-Principal College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Prof. Moses Musinguzi-Principal College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), Prof. Julius Kikooma-Director Graduate Training, Assoc. Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze-Deputy Principal College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Assoc. Prof. James Wokadala-Deputy Principal College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Assoc. Prof. Richard Idro-Deputy Principal College of Health Sciences, and Dr. Cathy Mbidde, Manager of the Makerere University Innovation Pod (Mak UniPod).

Eve Nakyanzi
Eve Nakyanzi

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