Makerere University Chief Security Officer, ACP Kasimo Thomas has warned students against mob injustices and other forms of indiscipline. Addressing over 10,000 students on 27th August 2015 during the Freshers’ orientation held in the Makerere University Freedom Square, Kasimo said that mob injustice is a disgraceful act which can lead to more insecurity in the community.

“Some people have mistaken mob injustice to be a form of justice and as such, many people have fallen victim to this problem. I should clearly state that as the Chief Security Officer of Makerere University; I boldly condemn the acts of mob injustices. I therefore advise the students to always report any suspect to the police,” he said.

He also advised students to desist from any unlawful activity such as participating in strikes and mobilisation to support causes that lead to violence, loss of life and property emphasizing that such acts would lead them to prison and/or being dismissed from the University.

This academic year 2015/2016, Makerere University admitted approximately 20,000 students. The Makerere University Academic Registrar Mr. Alfred Masikye Namoah congratulated the students upon their admission to Makerere University. He assured the freshers that they made the right choice to join the best University in Africa. Mr. Masikye then advised the students to pay tuition and functional fees due to the University as per the deadlines stipulated in the information packages given to them, emphasized adherence to the rules and regulations governing the University, and need for each student to attend all lectures during their academic pursuit.

Mr. Charles Ssentongo, Ag. Deputy Registrar (Undergraduate Admissions) called upon the Freshers to take registration exercise seriously. “For you to be recognised as a student, you must be registered with the University. I encourage you to follow the registration schedule provided and to use the names and particulars as stated in your provisional admission letters,” he said.

The Makerere University Guild President, H.E Bala David, urged the students to prioritize academic excellence; participate in other university activities; and ensure that they are healthy.

He advised the students to always contact the Guild Office for guidance on different aspects including life at campus.

Reiterating the need for academic excellence, Prof. Abasi Kiyimba, the Deputy Principal, Makerere University-College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), advised the freshers to focus on academics so that in the years to come they take on the mantle of teaching, learning and research at the University.

“Work hard and excel. There is need for a new generation of academics to replace the outgoing ones,” he said.

The Dean of Students Makerere University, Mr. Cyriaco Kabagambe encouraged students to respect and have faith in God.  Mr. Kabagambe explained that understanding and having faith in God generates a disciplined person, reduces on the crime rate and restores peace and order.

Other members of staff who addressed freshers were: Ag Director University Health Services Dr. Margaret Wandera, Manager Counselling and Guidance Centre, Mr. Henry Nsubuga, Head, Sports and Recreation Department Ms. Penninah Kabenge, Ag Deputy Registrar, Undergraduate Admissions, Department of Academic Registrar Mr. Charles Ssentongo  and Ms. Ritah Namisango,  Makerere University Senior Public Relations Officer.  They emphasised the need for academic discipline, guided the students on the registration as well as the teaching and learning process at the University.

Article by Nabatte Proscovia, Intern-Public Relations Office.