Makerere University students have formed an Anti-Sexual Harassment body to fight against sexual harassment among staff and students.
This was during the Students’ Sensitization and Feedback workshop on the Makerere University Policy and Regulations against Sexual Harassment held on Tuesday 19th April 2016.
Addressing the students, the Acting Director, Gender and Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD), Ms. Frances Nyachwo said the Students’ Sensitization and Feedback Workshop aimed at sensitizing students on the Makerere University Policy and Regulations against Sexual Harassment and to re-align the policy to the Makerere University Collegiate System.
The Team No Sexual Harassment at Makerere University will be a proactive platform for students to actively engage in creating awareness, sensitizing fellow students on the policy and regulations on sexual harassment well as fighting against sexual harassment actions.
“With this body, it will be easy for us to monitor the activities of the Anti-Sexual Committees, participate in outreach programmes to sensitize our fellow students on the anti-sexual harassment policy. It is an umbrella which will bind us together as students and empower us for a common cause of fighting for our rights,” said Sharon Barigye, a student of Makerere University Business School (MUBS).
One of the facilitators, Prof. Sylvia Tamale from Makerere University School of Law reiterated the fact that women have always been more vulnerable to sexual harassment/sexual abuses compared to men. Prof. Tamale revealed that 98% victims of sexual harassment are female. She attributed this to the societal segregation which creates power imbalances among male and female as well as the patriarchal systems.
Prof. Tamale advised students to ensure that sexual harassment cases are backed by evidence. Sharing case studies and day-to-day incidents, Prof. Tamale equipped students with knowledge and tactics of gathering/documenting evidence on sexual harassment tendencies/incidents/cases.
Sharing her experience in handling sexual harassment cases, Prof. Tamale said the Anti-Sexual Harassment Committees face a challenge of bringing the harassers to book due to lack of evidence and unwillingness of some people to appear as witnesses.
“Justice delayed is justice denied. Timely decisions are very crucial. Therefore students should always report cases of sexual harassment to the concerned individuals in time. Avoid anonymous complaints because we will not have a complaint. Always tell the truth, equip yourself with evidence, be bold, clear and ready to fight for your rights,” she advised. During this interactive workshop, students proposed approaches and mechanisms they could use to fight against sexual harassment. In the session facilitated by Mak Senior Public Relations Officer-Ms Ritah Namisango, the students noted that their active engagement in the Anti-Sexual Harassment Drive would empower them to fight against sexual abuses. Some of the ideas suggested included;
Continuous sensitization of students and staff on the Makerere University Policy and Regulations on Sexual Harassment
A proposal to include a Religious leader on the College/Unit Anti-Sexual Harassment Committee
In Units/Colleges where Anti-Sexual Harassment Committees are non-existent, the students (Team No Sexual Harassment at Makerere University) will use official channels to demand for the formation of such Committees.
To revitalize the Gender Mainstreaming Student Peer Trainers’ programme to support the Anti-Sexual Harassment agenda University wide.
Students from the College of Computing and Information Sciences together with the Quality Assurance Directorate to develop an Application to sensitize staff and students on sexual harassment.
Use of the social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook and Twitter to sensitize students, staff and the wider University community on the Makerere University Policy and Regulations on Sexual Harassment.
GMD in conjunction with Colleges/Schools should organize/ conduct debates against Sexual Harassment at School/ College Level.
The Gender Mainstreaming Directorate to involve students (Team No Sexual Harassment and Makerere University) to develop messages against Sexual Harassment that would be circulated to Colleges/Units.
The Manager of Academic Affairs, at Quality Assurance Directorate-Makerere University Dr. Euzobia Baine encouraged students to read and understand the policy and regulations on Sexual Harassment to fully understand the approaches/processes of seeking help and/or helping those who are sexually harassed. She informed students that each College should have a functional Anti-Sexual Harassment Committee, and encouraged students to liaise with the College leadership to ensure that they prioritize the Anti-Sexual Harassment Agenda in the University.
Dr. Baine also advised students to remain bold, say NO to sexual harassment and report cases to the Anti-Sexual Harassment Committees. “Have confidence that when you lodge a complaint, it will be listened to. Do not be intimidated and do not allow the harasser to take advantage of you. Carefully document the acts of the harasser. The Anti-Sexual Harassment Committees will always handle cases backed by evidence. Always avoid false accusations in your complaint because they will fail you and destroy your life totally,” she said.
Closing the workshop on behalf of the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu, the Acting Director, Gender and Mainstreaming Directorate Ms. Frances Nyachwo, called for a close collaboration between students and the Gender and Mainstreaming Directorate to seriously fight against sexual harassment in the University. The Senior Public Relations Officer of Makerere University, Ms Ritah Namisango who facilitated the Session that culminated in the Way/Forward/Action Points thanked the students for the roactive and constructive idea of creating an Anti-Sexual Harassment Body which she said would be a driving tool to kick sexual harassment out of Makerere University.
Important notes: In 2015, Makerere University Gender Mainstreaming Directorate organized a related Sensitization and Feedback workshop for staff.
The Academic Registrar, Makerere University invites persons with disability who applied for admission to public universities under the disability entry scheme for 2026/2027 Academic Year to appear for medical/review exercise at Makerere University, Senate Building, Level Four Conference Hall.
NOTE: Only those who have the minimum entry requirements of at least two principal passes at A’ Level or its equivalent and at least five (5) passes at O’ Level or its equivalent will be interviewed.
Only candidates who sat ‘A’ level in 2025, 2024 and 2023 are eligible for admission.
THE EXERCISE WILL BE CONDUCTED ON 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st and 22nd May, 2026 respectively from 9.00 A.M – 1.00 P.M each day.
In this exclusive quick chat, we spoke to the 91st Guild President, Ssentamu Churchill James, a third-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Social Sciences. He shares insights into his leadership journey, key achievements, challenges, and his vision for the student community.
What inspired you to run for Guild President?
My background and personal leadership journey played a big role. Growing up, I saw my father and uncle actively involved in politics, which shaped my interest in leadership.
I also held leadership roles in high school—serving as Sports Minister at O-Level and later as Head Prefect at St. Juliana High School, Gayaza, during my A-Level. These experiences built my confidence and passion for representing others.
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi with the H.E. Ssentamu, H.E. Kadondi, Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli and family members of the Guild Leadership.
Seeing former Guild President Vincent Lubega Nsamba win also motivated me. We come from the same high school, and I succeeded him as Head Prefect. That gave me the belief that I, too, could lead at that level.
What was your vision when you assumed office, and how much of it did you achieve?
My vision was to amplify students’ voices and ensure their needs were prioritized. While it wasn’t easy due to bureaucracy, we made progress.
We improved students’ social welfare by engaging management, which led to greater flexibility in organizing events like the Bazaar and Freshers’ Ball. We also addressed the issue of missing marks. Previously, it could take semesters to resolve, but now, through the Office of the Academic Registrar, such issues can be handled much faster.
What is your biggest achievement?
One of the biggest milestones was allowing students to sit for examinations after paying at least 60% of tuition. This has reduced the number of students dropping out due to financial constraints.
Left to Right: MD and CEO NEC-Lt. Gen. James Mugira conducts a symbolic handover of keys to the Vice Chancellor-Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe as 91st Guild President-H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James, Principal CEES and Ag. DVCFA-Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, Deputy University Secretary-Mr. Simon Kizito and Deputy Dean of Students-Dr. Rodney Rugyema witness on 25th July 2025.
We also saw the lifting of the ban on social events, which has gradually revived campus life. Additionally, leadership roles such as ministers and Guild Representative Councillors (GRCs) have become more functional, with clearer responsibilities and greater impact.
What key lessons have you learned?
One key lesson is the importance of daring to take action. Things may seem impossible, but once you step out and try, you realize they are achievable.
I also learned that leadership begins with influence. For example, when class representatives raised concerns about not being paid, I had to engage and influence them to understand the situation while working toward solutions.
Leadership also requires teamwork. You cannot lead alone—you need a support system. When you delegate, trust people and avoid micromanaging.
H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James and H.E. Kadondi Gracious welcome freshers in typical Makerere style.
Another lesson is the importance of effective communication with management. Building strong relationships increases your chances of influencing decisions.
On a personal level, I have learned discipline—keeping time, improving how I present myself, and becoming more mindful in how I engage with others.
What do you attribute your success to?
First and foremost, God, who gave me the wisdom and understanding to lead.
I also attribute it to the strong working relationships I built with University leadership, especially the Vice Chancellor and the Dean of Students. Without that collaboration, it would have been difficult to achieve much.
How did you balance academics and leadership?
It required intentional planning and prioritization. When meetings clashed with tests, I delegated to the Vice President or Prime Minister. This ensured continuity while giving them an opportunity to grow.
H.E. Churchill James Ssentamu alongside other Student Leaders hold the “Strides for Change” banner at Mary Stuart Hall. Courtesy Photo.
However, I made it a point to attend critical engagements, such as Council meetings, because I was entrusted with representing students’ voices. I was also selective about external engagements to remain focused on my academics.
What challenges did you encounter?
Managing high expectations from students was a major challenge. Even small delays could attract criticism. For example, when students’ upkeep delayed by a week, some assumed I was not advocating for them.
I learned to remain calm and not react emotionally, instead using feedback as motivation to improve.
Another challenge was handling sensitive cases, such as advocating for students who had been suspended. Even when I did not agree with their actions, it was my duty to seek fair consideration on their behalf.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Mr. Ian King and H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James (Standing before Banners) are joined by officials in a group photo in the Daycare Centre, located on the Ground Floor of the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) on 7th August 2025.
Was there a difficult decision you had to make?
Yes. Just a month into office, I made the decision to relieve a minister of their duties because they did not align with the cabinet’s vision and values. Leadership requires making tough decisions to maintain unity and integrity.
Is there anything you would have done differently?
I feel I could have engaged more with the administration. At times, I was occupied with activities outside the University, which limited my interaction with management. With more engagement, I believe I could have achieved even more.
What will you miss most?
I will not necessarily miss the office itself. Leadership is about service, and it is now time for others to take on that responsibility as I move on to the next chapter of my life.
H.E. Churchill James Ssentamu enjoys a light moment with officials as he endorses the dummy of the policy.
How would you like to be remembered?
As a selfless leader who went the extra mile to serve others and always put students’ interests first—even when it required personal sacrifice.
For instance, during the Freshers’ Ball, we wanted to host a musician whose fee was UGX 4 million, yet we only had UGX 2 million. I personally covered the balance to make it happen for the students.
At Makerere University, the future didn’t feel distant, it felt urgent, alive, and within reach.
For three days in March, the university’s grounds transformed into a vibrant meeting point of ambition and opportunity as students, graduates, and industry leaders converged for the 2026 Careers Fair. Lecture halls spilled into exhibition spaces, conversations replaced uncertainty, and for many students, career dreams began to take clearer shape.
A Question That Defined the Moment: Man or Machine?
The opening day set the tone with a bold theme;“Machine vs. Man”, placing artificial intelligence at the center of career conversations. Students listened, questioned, and reflected as leaders challenged them not to fear technology, but to harness it.
The message was clear: the future belongs to those who can adapt.
Chief Guest-Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero (5th L) with Prof. Moses Musinguzi (3rd L), Chair Organising Committee-Prof. Anthony Gidudu and other Speakers on Day 1 of the Makerere Careers Fair.
Speakers emphasized that while AI is reshaping industries, it is also creating new opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation. For many students in attendance, this was more than a discussion—it was a wake-up call to rethink their place in a rapidly evolving world.
Beyond Jobs: Unlocking Global Opportunities
If Day One provoked thought, Day Two opened doors.
The focus shifted to scholarships, fellowships, and international study opportunities, expanding students’ horizons beyond the immediate job market. Conversations moved from “What job can I get?” to “What possibilities exist for me globally?”
Mr. James Katumba (R) contributes to the panel discussion.
Students explored pathways into prestigious programmes, exchange opportunities, and further study options, discovering that their ambitions could stretch far beyond borders.
Where Potential Meets Purpose
By the final day, the Careers Fair had evolved into something deeper—a platform for connection.
Under the theme “Connecting Potential to Purpose,” industry leaders, employers, and development partners engaged directly with students, emphasizing collaboration as the key to career success.
Across Freedom Square and exhibition booths, students asked tough questions, shared ideas, and made meaningful connections. Employers, in turn, offered insights into the skills that matter most in today’s workplace—adaptability, creativity, and critical thinking.
Gorretti Byomire contributes to the panel discussion.
More than 50 organizations participated, turning the fair into a living ecosystem of mentorship, networking, and opportunity.
Stories That Defined the Experience
But beyond the panels and presentations, it was the human moments that stood out.
There was the student who, after a conversation with a recruiter, discovered a career path they had never considered. The group of finalists who used simple tools like mobile phones to create powerful messages about safety and inclusion, reminding everyone that innovation often begins with what is available.
And there were countless quiet exchanges, handshakes, questions, shared laughter—that carried the weight of possibility.
Students attending the career fair on day three at the Freedom Square.
A Bridge to the Future
What emerged from the three-day experience was not just a successful event, but a powerful reminder of the university’s role as a bridge, linking academic training to real-world demands.
The Careers Fair reaffirmed Makerere’s commitment to preparing students not just for employment, but for meaningful participation in shaping the future. It brought into focus a simple but profound truth: careers are not built in isolation—they are nurtured through connections, curiosity, and courage.
For many students who walked through the fair, the journey ahead no longer felt uncertain. It felt possible.