General
Makerere honours late Dr. Joshua Baitwa Mugyenyi
It was befitting to dedicate the fourth lecture in the Makerere Africa Lecture Series to celebrating the life of Dr. Joshua Baitwa Mugyenyi, a brilliant student, distinguished alumnus, member of faculty and who while still a student at Makerere in 1970, was a part of the group that conceived the idea of having the Africa Lecture Series at the campus.
The fourth lecture in the Makerere Africa Lecture Series, was held on 15th March 2012 marking exactly ten years since Joshua passed on. The lecture focused on paying tribute to the strong values that the late Joshua Baitwa Mugyenyi stood for. This witnessed the launch of the Dr. Joshua B. Mugyenyi Social Transformation Foundation and the promotion of the Makerere University Female Scholarship Foundation.
Professor Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o, the Minister of Medical Services in the Republic of Kenya and also former Guild President of the Makerere University, gave the key note address.
“Let the spear of intellectual clarity burn wherever he is resting; let this foundation established in his memory spearhead excellence among students who will benefit from it; let the African people be liberated from political oppression and economic exploitation through the energies of the people as Joshua Baitwa Mugyenyi would have wanted it,” he said in his speech.
Born on 27th May 1947 in Kajara County in Ankole Kingdom, Dr. Joshua Baitwa Mugyenyi died on 15th March 2002, but his legacy is still lives on in the lives of individuals he worked with, associated with as well as those he mentored.
The Acting Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Professor Venansius Baryamureeba welcomed the Guest of Honour, Rt. Hon. Professor Apolo R. Nsibambi, a distinguished alumnus, and Former Chancellor of Makerere University to the public lecture and thanked him for graciously accepting to launch the Dr. Joshua Baitwa Mugyenyi Social Transformation Foundation.
Professor Baryamureeba informed the congregation that Makerere University together with the family and friends, do remember Dr. Joshua Baitwa Mugyenyi as a selfless individual, who gave his best at all times. “We chose this day, 15th March 2012 to remember a brilliant student, distinguished alumnus, former member of faculty and to commemorate a lifetime of achievements of a man who was brutally frank, stood for only the truth, and who fought for the rights of others even at the expense of risking his own life,” remarked Professor Venansius Baryamureeba.
“On this 15th day of March 2012, we join the nation in celebrating the life of an ever optimistic and passionate leader-transformer and eloquent discussant of the socio-economic transformation of Uganda and Africa,” he added.
Joshua Baitwa Mugyenyi joined Makerere University in June 1968 and graduated in 1971 with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Public Administration. While at Makerere, Joshua Baitwa Mugyenyi excelled in academics, he served as Vice President of the Students’ Guild who actively participated in fighting against all forms of injustices and threats to students’ welfare.
Through his teaching career, Josh, as he was fondly known, passionately shared his knowledge at the national and international levels. He was a Senior Lecturer at his alma mater, Makerere, in addition to teaching in other universities in Swaziland and Canada. Mugyenyi co-authored a number of books and published several peer reviewed papers in prominent journals. At the time of his death on 15th March 2002, he was a proactive member of the Makerere University Council-the top policy making organ and Chairperson of the Convocation. He mentored many and significantly contributed to the university motto: We Build for the Future.
In honour of the late Joshua Baitwa Mugyenyi, the Ag. Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Professor Venansius Baryamureeba welcomed an exceptionally accomplished alumnus and former Guild President, and now Minister of Medical services in the Republic of Kenya, Professor Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o to deliver a public lecture on “Social Transformation in Contemporary Africa: Reminiscences of Dr. Joshua B. Mugyenyi.”
As a token of appreciation and friendship, both families exchanged gifts. On unwrapping the gifts, they were pleasantly surprised to find that it was the same photo taken when they were members of the Guild in 1970. Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o described it as a “divine intervention” amidst laughter.
Professor Baryamureeba informed the congregation that while students at Makerere, the trio-Joshua Baitwa Mugyenyi, Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o and Daudi Taliwaku conceived the idea of the Africa Lecture series.
“As the only surviving member of the Students’ Guild Executive 1969/70 trio that conceived the Africa Lecture Series, there is no greater way to celebrate the memory of our dearly departed Alumni, the late Dr. Joshua B. Mugyenyi and the late Ambassador Daudi Taliwaku than to have one of the original three present at this lecture. We are extremely grateful to you Hon. Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o for taking time off your demanding constituency and ministerial work to be with us today for yet another Public Lecture,” remarked the overjoyed Vice Chancellor.
Hon. Professor Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o moved to the podium, but there was a sudden moment of silence, a reflection of a person re-calling a past history, and an audience ready to listen to an oratory of a man who had touched people from all walks of life.
With nostalgia, Professor Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o delivered a moving public lecture on Dr. Joshua Baitwa Mugyenyi whom he met in 1968 at Makerere University, but remained very close until when death robbed him 10 years ago.
“Joshua was a brave and courageous individual who used the mighty power of the pen and the written word to fights all forms of social injustices at Makerere, in Uganda and beyond. The fearless Joshua also risked his life to engage President Apolo Milton Obote on policies that he felt were undermining democracy,” stressed Professor Anyang’ Nyong’o during the public lecture.
One Sunday in January 1971, Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o and Joshua woke up at Makerere only to observe that Radio Uganda was playing martial music all day, Uganda Television was showing cartoons all day and by the end of the day a rough voice came on both radio and television to say that the government of Apolo Milton Obote was no more: “It is now a military government,” announced Smart Gwedeko, a mere warrant officer.
Prof. Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o said Joshua Baitwa Mugyenyi never gave up his disgust with the military regime. Although Joshua stayed at Makerere for some time as a tutorial fellow in the Department of Political science, continued as a Lecturer at the Institute of Public Administration, did his post graduate work in Manchester, came back as Senior Lecturer; his spirit was always urging him to do something about this military menace in Uganda. At the beginning of the eighties, after the debacle of the general elections of 1980, Joshua became a founder member of the Uganda Patriotic Movement (UPM) which eventually metamorphosed into the National Resistance Movement.
Professor Anyang’ Nyong’o informed the friends of Joshua gathered in the Main Hall that he had told the stories to describe the world Joshua lived in and the world he sought to change. “I have told these stories not to re-count the personal relations and experiences, but to shade light on the African world Joshua lived in and tried to change for the better; to get some insight into issues related to social transformation in contemporary Africa,” he stressed.
Joshua took theory to point of practice, and was always ready to engage in auto-criticism. “I remember in 1996, Joshua was very determined that the NRM should have a political transition in which the leaders of the NRM revolution would democratically pass the torch to a new generation so as to avoid tendencies towards authoritarianism,” Professor Anyang’ Nyong’o added.
Professor Anyang’ Nyong’o also observed that the challenges to democratic governance and social transformation in Africa remain pertinent today as they were then. But they cannot be known or practised without such piercing analyses and scholarship as was the case with Joshua. And scholarship, within and outside academic institutions, is always a social engagement. It is not confined to those of us who have degrees, it is the enterprise of those ready to think, write and speak on social issues without the cloud of dogma, bias and various forms of chauvisim.
Paying tribute to Joshua, Dr. Ezra Suruma, Senior Presidential Advisor on Finance and Economic Planning, said Joshua’s number one quality was courage. Dr Suruma was optimistic that if in every generation, we have one man or woman of Joshua’s intellect and courage, Uganda’s freedom would be fundamentally advanced. “As we remember Joshua, let us pray that God will raise men and women of his quantum of intellect and courage,” remarked Dr. Suruma who met Joshua in September 1979 at Makerere University and who together with Joshua agreed to form the Uganda National Movement (UNM). According to Dr. Suruma, Joshua’s life, his works and his example can be summarised as: “I will declare the truth. And I will fight for what is right, even though it is dangerous. And if die, I die.”
Mr. Fred Guweddeko, a researcher, at Makerere Institute of Social Research, informed the audience that Dr. Joshua Baitwa Mugyenyi had a dream to become the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University. Mr. Fred Guweddeko together with Dr. Joshua Baitwa Mugyenyi embarked on gathering data aimed at instituting reforms at Makerere when latter become the Vice Chancellor after Professor P.M.J. Ssebuwufu’s reign. Mr. Guweddeko said this is a dream he never lived to see.
Professor Mahmood Mamdani, a renowned scholar and Director of the Makerere Institute of Social Research (MISR), said the best of all independence is the independence of thought. He advocated for the need to turn Makerere into a research led university, and a purely public university not to benefit only the state, but society at large.
Dr. Joshua Baitwa Mugyenyi worked at the Bank of Uganda for 14 years. The Deputy Governor, Bank of Uganda, Dr. Louis Kasekende said many members of staff at the Bank of Uganda remember him for his open management style.
He initiated reforms aimed at improving the welfare of workers and respected all people regardless of their rank. “It was during his tenure that the Bank of Uganda launched the pension scheme. He revamped the training scheme, improved the appraisal system and initiated the House Advance and Building Loan scheme,” he said. “We in the Bank of Uganda feel proud to be associated with this noble cause of spearheading social transformation.”
Mrs. Mary Mugyenyi, the widow, thanked all the people who had filled the Main Hall to capacity for honouring their invitation. In a special way, she thanked the Makerere University Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, the Bank of Uganda and their consultant, Mr. George Piwang-Jalobo for the tremendous support towards the success of the public lecture and launch.On behalf of her siblings, one of the daughters of the late Joshua said that their father loved nature, loved children and he always brought joy, values that they will seek to emulate. “We shall be exemplary. We shall love each other. We shall always remember what our father stood for,” she said.
She said her husband was a family man, dedicated father and a person who encouraged free thinking in the family. She said that her husband encouraged and supported her to pursue her career and political aspirations.
“Today, 15th March 2012, marks the celebration of the past and also the launch of the future of Joshua immortalised through the- Dr. Joshua B. Mugyenyi Social Transformation Foundation. The best way to celebrate his life was to focus on his passion for education and knowledge. This Foundation will focus on the bright, but disadvantaged youth to access education,” she said.”The Makerere University Female Scholarship Foundation, which supports girls from disadvantaged socio-economic background, will be the first beneficiary of the Grant from the Dr. Joshua Baitwa Mugyenyi Foundation.”
Mrs. Mugyenyi added that the foundation will also support research and increase funding for the treatment of cancer and other non-communicable diseases.
Launching the Foundation, the Guest of Honour, Professor Apolo R. Nsibambi, former Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda said: “I am honoured to launch the Dr. Joshua Baitwa Mugyeni Social Transformation Foundation to keep the memory of my student, colleague and friend alive. I pray that the Foundation will be blessed and prosper to advance the ideals, values and convictions for which Dr. Joshua Baitwa Mugyenyi lived and worked.”
Professor Apolo Nsibambi contributed Shs1 million towards the Dr. Joshua Baitwa Mugyenyi Social Transformation Foundation.
The Chancellor of Makerere University, Professor George Mondo Kagonyera, and also a very close friend of the Mugyenyi family thanked Mrs. Mary Mugyenyi for looking after the children and continuing to advance the principles that her husband, the late Dr. Joshua Baitwa Mugyenyi held dearly.
Written by: Ritah Namisango, Public Relations Office
Makerere University on 3rd December, 2025 hosted the Tumusiime Mutebile Annual Lecture, a tradition established to honour the life and legacy of the late Prof. Emmanuel Tumusiime-Mutebile, an outstanding alumnus and former Governor of the Bank of Uganda who passed away in 2022. The lecture not only reflects on his remarkable contribution to Uganda’s economic leadership, but also highlights how innovation, resilience, and intergenerational vision can shape Africa’s future.
This year’s edition was anchored on three key pillars—intergenerational leadership, economic resilience, and the power of innovation—themes that defined Prof. Mutebile’s career and continue to influence national development. Through this annual series, the University upholds his memory while also celebrating other African leaders whose work has left a lasting mark on the continent, using their legacies to inspire thoughtful dialogue, policy reflection, and the next generation of transformative thinkers.
Celebrating an Enduring Legacy
In her remarks, the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Sarah Ssali, reflected on Prof. Mutebile’s lifelong commitment to excellence, integrity, and the transformative power of education. She highlighted his journey from a student leader at Makerere to one of the country’s most influential economic thinkers, noting how his leadership in monetary policy, fiscal reform, and economic stabilization reshaped Uganda’s economic trajectory.
Prof. Ssali emphasized that this public lecture series not only honours Mutebile’s legacy but also bridges academia and practice—challenging students, scholars, and national leaders to pursue knowledge that serves the public good. She expressed gratitude to the Bank of Uganda under Dr. Michael Atingi-Ego, dfcu Bank, the GRO Foundation, the Mutebile family, and the Advancement Office for their continued support in sustaining a platform that nurtures economic thought leadership and inspires future generations.
Rt. Hon. Emeritus Amama Mbabazi, a lifelong friend and contemporary of the late Prof. Emmanuel Tumusiime-Mutebile, delivered a deeply personal reflection during the lecture. He recalled their shared beginnings as young student leaders at Makerere, their early political activism, and the historical moments that shaped both their lives and the nation. Speaking as both confidant and colleague, he emphasized Mutebile’s disciplined approach to economic policy, his unwavering belief in strong, accountable institutions, and his commitment to evidence-based, long-term decision making. Mbabazi outlined three pillars of Mutebile’s legacy—policy integrity, institutional strength, and leadership that prepares the next generation—values he affirmed are central to the work of the Tumusiime Foundation, which he now chairs.
He underscored the critical role of the private sector in Africa’s transformation, stressing the need for productivity-driven economies, skilled young people, and policy ecosystems that encourage innovation. He further called for intergenerational leadership that deliberately transfers knowledge, builds enduring institutions, and creates real opportunities for young Africans to lead. In closing, he urged academia, policymakers, and industry to work in partnership, noting that Africa’s progress depends on disciplined leadership, investment in human capital, and a shared commitment to building a future stronger than the present.
Fiscal Policies that have stood the test of time
The Governor of the Bank of Uganda, Dr. Michael Atingi-Ego, honored the late Prof. Emmanuel Tumusiime-Mutebile with a heartfelt tribute, praising him as “a great tree whose roots ran deep beneath the soil of this nation, nourishing all who followed.” He noted that Uganda continues to benefit from the “shade” of the policies Mutebile planted during his 21-year tenure—policies that stabilized the economy, strengthened institutions, and protected the financial system through multiple crises. He highlighted Mutebile’s role in restoring price stability through cash budgeting, bringing inflation down from triple digits to single digits, guiding the country through the 2008 global financial crisis with disciplined monetary policy, and maintaining public trust during the 2011 inflation spike through clear and transparent communication.
Dr. Atingi-Ego also credited him for steering Uganda safely through the COVID-19 pandemic by introducing liquidity support for banks, credit relief for borrowers, and targeted foreign exchange interventions. Reflecting on Mutebile’s long-term impact, the Governor remarked, “These are the ideas he planted—he never lived to enjoy the shade of the tree, but today, the country rests under it.” He further celebrated Mutebile’s commitment to innovation, citing the 2016 amendments to the Financial Institutions Act that unlocked agency banking, bancassurance, and Islamic banking—reforms that today anchor Uganda’s impressive financial inclusion gains.
Intergenerational Leadership blends agility and emotional intelligence
Eng. Dr. F. F. Tusubira delivered a compelling and deeply reflective keynote, grounding the theme “Intergenerational Leadership, Economic Resilience and the Power of Innovation” in both history and lived institutional experience. He expressed serious concern that although Africa is the world’s youngest continent—with over 65% of its population below 35—its systems continue to sideline young people from leadership and national decision-making, even as they are repeatedly called “leaders of tomorrow.” He argued that this generational exclusion is not merely unfair but dangerous, warning that nations cannot secure economic resilience while locking out the very demographic best equipped to navigate a rapidly evolving, technology-driven world.
Drawing on African proverbs, global case studies, and personal anecdotes from Makerere and national institutions, he demonstrated how younger generations bring idealism, agility, innovation, and risk-taking—qualities essential for competitiveness—while older generations contribute emotional intelligence, institutional memory and a heightened sense of danger. He emphasized that progress requires blending these strengths through deliberate structures: fair representation of youth in boards and executive spaces, shared decision-making, reverse mentorship, and an institutional culture that values every generational perspective.
Dr. Tusubira also highlighted the urgent need for education reform, criticizing the continent’s entrenched “learning to pass exams” culture and calling for systems that cultivate creativity, problem-solving, and technical capability. He cautioned that without investing in human capital, digital literacy, and inclusive innovation ecosystems, Africa risks losing the very foundation of future competitiveness. His message was clear and powerful: intergenerational leadership is not optional—it is a survival strategy for institutions, businesses, and nations, especially in an era where, as he quoted, “it is not the strongest who survive, but those most responsive to change.”
The lecture was further enriched by an engaging panel discussion, which was moderated by Prof. Edward Bbaale, the Principal, College of Business and Management Sciences. He opened the discussion by deliberately centering today’s students and emerging leaders, framing the session as an intellectual reflection on the life, values and legacy of the late Prof. Emmanuel Tumusiime-Mutebile. He positioned the lecture’s theme — Shaping Africa’s Future: Intergenerational Leadership, Economic Resilience and the Power of Innovation — as urgent and practical, and introduced a cross-disciplinary panel whose expertise mirrors that urgency: Eng. Dr. F. F. Tusubira, Mr. Charles Mudiwa the Managing Director Dfcu Bank, and Prof. Faisal Buyinza the Ag. Dean, School of Economics.
Prof. Bbaale’s moderation enabled panelists to offer guidance on structural and cultural barriers to youth inclusion, the role of institutions in building resilience, and how academia, industry and policy can work together to turn innovation into jobs and scalable solutions — all the while reserving time for direct audience engagement and practical policy takeaways. Collectively, the panelists urged dismantling age-biased barriers and credential rigidities, creating new entry points and “tables” for youth leadership, scaling finance and training for startups and agribusiness, reforming pedagogy to prioritise skills and creativity, and deepening public-private-academic partnerships so innovation becomes inclusive growth rather than isolated experimentation.
The Family’s heartfelt appreciation
Mrs. Betty Tumusiime-Mutebile delivered heartfelt closing remarks, offering gratitude on behalf of the family and the Tumusiime-Mutebile Foundation. Speaking with deep emotion, she reflected on the late Professor’s character—his honesty, humility, hard work, and unwavering commitment to service above self. She thanked Makerere University, the Bank of Uganda, the Foundation’s leadership, and the many friends and colleagues who have continued to uphold his legacy, noting that although nearly four years have passed since his departure, his memory remains vivid and powerful for the family.
She recalled his devotion to both his public duty and his home, sharing personal stories of his leadership within the family and his steadfast faith that shaped their daily lives. Mrs. Tumusiime-Mutebile also highlighted the Foundation’s ongoing work in youth skilling, ethical governance, and private-sector development—initiatives rooted in his own vision. She concluded by inviting continued partnership to sustain the legacy he built, and led the gathering in singing his favourite chorus, a tender tribute to a man whose influence, she said, endures through the lives he touched.
Makerere University today joined the global community in marking the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, a moment dedicated to reflection on inclusion and shared responsibility. As the world pauses to honor the dignity and leadership of persons with disabilities, the University is using this year’s commemoration to reaffirm its commitment to building a campus where every individual is supported to thrive. The day is not only a celebration of resilience and contribution, but also a call to the wider community—students, staff, policymakers, and partners—to actively participate in shaping an environment where accessibility, understanding, and respect are woven into everyday practice. Through this observance, Makerere positions itself once again as a champion of inclusive education and a beacon for transformative change.
Tangible gains made
During her address at the event held in the Main Hall, the Chief Guest, Hon. Hellen Grace Asamo, Minister of State for Disability Affairs, paid tribute to Makerere University’s leadership, longtime advocates like Hon. Safia Nalule, and the many individuals who have advanced disability rights from the early years of mere “talking” to the tangible gains seen today. Speaking candidly, she emphasized that disability is often shaped by societal attitudes rather than physical conditions alone, urging families, institutions, and communities to confront stigma at its roots. Drawing from her own educational journey and the barriers she faced—including inaccessible learning spaces, limited course options, and discriminatory hiring practices—she reminded the audience that inclusion must go beyond numbers to genuine opportunity.
Hon. Asamo’s message to persons with disabilities was equally empowering: visibility and assertiveness are essential in claiming space, shaping policy, and influencing resource allocation. With examples from government reforms, improvements in accessibility, and efforts to standardize sign language interpretation, she underscored that progress is possible when commitment meets intentional planning. Her remarks reinforced a powerful truth—disability inclusion is a right, not a favour—and institutions like Makerere must continue leading the way in creating environments where every individual can participate, contribute, and thrive.
The keynote speaker Hon. Safia Nalule Jjuuko, Chairperson of the Equal Opportunities Commission and a former Member of Parliament representing persons with disabilities for 15 years, delivered a keynote rich in personal testimony, institutional memory, and policy insight. She reflected on her own journey as a student—navigating inaccessible buildings, exhausting practical sessions, and discouraging attitudes—to illustrate how far the University and the country have come in strengthening inclusion. A proud alumna of Makerere, she celebrated the progress made, including improved infrastructure and increased representation of persons with disabilities in national leadership. She however highlighted that gaps remain, particularly the shortage of appropriately trained lecturers capable of supporting learners with disabilities across all levels of education.
Drawing from her work at the Equal Opportunities Commission, she emphasized the constitutional mandate to eliminate discrimination, promote affirmative action, and ensure a just and fair society for every Ugandan. Hon. Nalule unpacked the theme of the day by highlighting the global shift toward disability-inclusive development, stressing that concepts like intersectionality, “leaving no one behind,” and cross-cutting inclusion all speak to the same truth: inclusive planning is central to sustainable progress. She reminded the audience that disability is an evolving concept shaped by environmental barriers, negative attitudes, and lack of social support—and that participation, consultation, and awareness must always place persons with disabilities at the centre as experts of their own experiences.
Citing national statistics, policy frameworks, and ongoing reforms such as gender and equity budgeting, she challenged institutions like Makerere to engage actively in national planning processes, interrogate the cost of exclusion, and prepare graduates—especially those with disabilities—to benefit from Uganda’s development priorities in agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and services. Her address was both a celebration of progress and a call to action: a reminder that meaningful inclusion requires attention to detail, responsive planning, and intentional investment so that every student, regardless of ability, can participate fully and contribute to national transformation.
Makerere upholds responsiveness
The Acting (Ag.) Vice Chancellor Prof. Sara Ssali reaffirmed Makerere University’s commitment to building an inclusive campus that models the kind of responsive institutions needed for social progress, stressing that inclusion requires both empowering marginalized people and adapting institutional structures so they no longer have to “fit in.” Drawing on Makerere’s long record of intentional policies—from improved physical accessibility and the Disability Support Centre to inclusive teaching practices, staff training, and collaborations—she highlighted practical steps the University has taken while acknowledging more work remains, especially around intersectionality and tailored support for diverse disabilities.
Prof. Ssali urged departments to mainstream disability concerns in planning and budgeting, praised the everyday care provided by wardens and support staff, and called for research, innovation and accountability so that students and staff with disabilities can fully participate and contribute. She closed by renewing Makerere’s pledge to remove barriers and nurture the next generation of inclusive leaders.
Mr. Amon Muteganda, who represents staff living with disabilities on the University Council, reaffirmed Makerere’s identity as an inclusive institution, noting that whenever disability-related concerns are raised in Council, members listen attentively and respond with genuine commitment. He expressed appreciation to University Management for consistently acting on issues brought forward, highlighting recent improvements such as the introduction of dedicated transport for students and staff with disabilities—a proposal he and colleagues championed and which has now come to fruition. He highlighted the importance of representation at multiple levels of the institution, demonstrating that Makerere’s inclusivity efforts are not symbolic but actively shaping policy, practice, and everyday experiences for persons with disabilities.
Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, the Dean of Students, highlighted Makerere University’s deliberate efforts to foster a campus where every learner feels supported and able to thrive. She spoke about the active implementation of the University’s policy for persons with disabilities, alongside the safeguarding policy, both aimed at ensuring the welfare and dignity of all students. Dr. Kabumbuli pointed to the expanding range of accessible accommodation—such as designated halls for students with disabilities and the newly refurbished Mary Stuart Hall equipped with an elevator—as well as campus-wide additions like ramps, elevators, and accessible pathways.
She also emphasized the growing availability of assistive devices, including wheelchairs, Braille materials, and white canes, together with academic support measures such as extra time and readers during examinations. Her remarks captured Makerere’s intentional approach to inclusion, one that enables students with disabilities to navigate university life with comfort, confidence, and equal opportunity.
A student speaks out
First-year architecture student Sabiri Mungufeni shared a heartfelt account of his transition into university life, describing both his initial worries and the encouragement he found upon arriving at Makerere. He recalled fearing how his disability would fit within the demanding academic environment of the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology, especially when he discovered that much of the work in architecture is still done manually. Yet through determination and the support of staff and peers, he quickly realized he could excel. Sabiri noted that seeing other students with disabilities walking confidently across campus inspired him to believe he, too, belonged. He expressed hope that, as inclusion continues to deepen, students with disabilities will be able to pursue a wider range of academic programs beyond the usual pathways, demonstrating—like many trailblazers before him—that ability is not defined by limitation but by opportunity and support.
Personal accounts urge sustained momentum
The event also featured a dynamic panel discussion moderated by Dr. Diana Ateenyi Ahumuza, offering a blend of academic, experiential, and advocacy-based perspectives on disability inclusion. The panel brought together Dr. Naboth Rwakazwaire, founder of Hope for People with Disabilities; Prof. Anthony Mugagga, Principal of the College of Education and External Studies (CEES); Lord Councillor Peace Sserunkuma; and Ms. Catherine Nakibuuka, a second-year law student. Their conversation explored practical solutions, policy gaps, personal experiences, and the role of institutions like Makerere in shaping a more inclusive society.
Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, the Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration) and Principal of the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), delivered the closing remarks by thanking all participants for their thoughtful contributions and the spirit of unity shown throughout the commemoration. He emphasized that inclusion is not a one-day event but an ongoing responsibility that requires empathy, patience, and deliberate action from every member of the Makerere community.
Drawing from personal experience and lifelong lessons of compassion, he encouraged staff and students to cultivate genuine sensitivity toward the needs of persons with disabilities and to champion inclusion in both mindset and practice. Prof. Mwine acknowledged the progress made—including accessible infrastructure, strengthened policies, and dedicated support services—while urging continued investment, collaboration, and accountability to ensure that Makerere becomes a place where all individuals can thrive without barriers. He ended by calling on the University to sustain the momentum built during the commemoration and to work together in building a more inclusive Makerere and Uganda.
Excitement filled the air on Friday evening as Makerere University’s student and staff Safeguarding Champions gathered at the serene Makerere Institute of Social Research (MISR) Gardens for a memorable celebration of their Semester One achievements.
The event, which blended elegance with purpose, brought together Champions from across the University community to honour their hard work, dedication and shared commitment to building a safer campus for all.
The gardens came alive with warm conversations, laughter and energizing music as Champions checked in and made new friends.
The dinner was more than just a celebratory moment, it became an important space for learning, networking and strengthening collaboration. Champions shared experiences from the semester, discussed challenges they had faced while supporting peers and colleagues, and exchanged new ideas to improve safeguarding awareness across the University.
Addressing the champions, Dr. Rodney Rugyema, the Acting Principal Warden who represented the Dean of Students, Dr Winifred Kabumbuli, emphasized that the efforts of Safeguarding Champions continue to play a critical role in strengthening trust and ensuring the wellbeing of all students and staff.
The atmosphere was filled with gratitude, pride and a renewed commitment to building a safer and more inclusive community at the University.
Speaking at the dinner, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, Director Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, applauded the Champions for their dedication, vigilance and exemplary leadership in promoting safety, dignity and respect on campus
“As we gather to celebrate our progress in enhancing the Safety and Wellness of Students and Staff, it is important to acknowledge those who have made this possible- The University Leadership, Student and Staff Safeguarding Champions. We also acknowledged our Partner the Mastercard Foundation for the support in strengthening safeguarding and inclusion at Makerere,” Prof. Namaalwa, said
During the dinner, different student champions shared their success stories for the semester.
“This semester has proved to us that when students and staff work together, we can create a University environment where everyone feels protected, respected and valued. Tonight is a celebration of our collective effort, but also a reminder that the work continues. We pledge to stay vigilant, to listen, and to respond with empathy and integrity,” Precious Ssenonga, a second-year student from the College of Computing and Information Sciences, said.
Samuel Ssempijja, a second-year student of pursuing the Bachelor of Education, noted that during the semester he encouraged fellow students to utilise the MakSafeSpace and that gave many confidence to report cases.
“During the MakRun, several students’ phones were stolen. I advised them to report the theft case through MakSafeSpace, our online safeguarding platform. The students were impressed by how quickly the security team responded, and it reassured them that their concerns are taken seriously by the University Management. MakSafeSpace has shown us that timely reporting and timely action can truly make a difference.” Ssempijja, noted.
The event closed with farewells and promises to carry the spirit of the evening into Semester Two. For many, it was more than a dinner, it was a reminder that together, they are building a University environment where every student and staff member feels safe, valued and included.
About Safeguarding Initiatives at Makerere
In this era of heightened awareness and scrutiny surrounding safeguarding practices, Institutions of higher learning are increasingly rated by not only their academic excellence but also on their commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment for all members of their community.
The potential safeguarding risks in Institutions of higher learning include emotional distress, Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment (SEAH); material loss, financial exploitation, discrimination and neglect, unfair and illegitimate response to civic engagements, cyber security/threats, psychological and emotional harm, substance abuse, and physical assault.
Discrimination and neglect are often high risks for students with disabilities and international students.
Makerere University has a duty of care and to promote the wellbeing of all students, staff and other University community stakeholders. It seeks to enhance the learning environment to make it more secure, inclusive, and ethically sound for all stakeholders.
The Safeguarding policy lays out the University’s framework for embedding viable safeguarding measures into its ethos and all institutional activities and processes to: identify, detect, and act swiftly on safeguarding risks; prevent the occurrence of harm; provide mechanisms for reporting all allegations or incidents that have occurred; respond appropriately to all reported incidences; and, continuously monitor, evaluate and learn from practices and experiences of managing safeguarding concerns.
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