General
Prof. Bazeyo appeals to international students to embrace the Students-Management open door policy
The Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration Prof. William Bazeyo has appealed international students to embrace the students-management open door policy that allows students to interact freely with Makerere University Management. This was during the Orientation Meeting for Makerere University international students of Academic Year 2018/2019. Addressing over 200 students on 20th August 2018, Prof. William Bazeyo said students should be free to meet any member of the University Management in case they need help.
“You are entitled to see any person from the University leadership. We are here for you and we are meant to serve you. Call me, send me a text. you can even WhatsApp me in case you need help. Do not hesitate to approach any office for support. We want you to fulfil your academic objectives but also enjoy the social benefits of studying at Makerere University,” he said.
Prof. Bazeyo informed the students of the existence of the Policy and Regulations against Sexual Harassment and encouraged them to openly defy the sexual harassment vice and stand strong for their academic rights. He advised students to be security cautious and urged them to utilize the help of the students’ leadership and the International Office during their stay at the University.
“Avoid walking at night and if you are, walk in groups. Don’t forget to carry your identity cards wherever you go. don’t leave your valuables unattended to and please avoid dark spots,” he advised.
He encouraged students to concentrate on their academics and fully participate in the free and open exchange of ideas. He assured the students of the commitment of the University Management and staff to help students create a positive university experience with a unique opportunity that will enable them develop lifelong passion for learning.
The Head of International Office Ms. Martha Muwanguzi welcomed the students to Makerere University a premier university in Africa. “It is great pleasure and privilege to welcome you to Makerere University. We are pleased that you have chosen to complete part of your studies in this great institution. At Makerere University, you will not only be rewarded with the best education and world class qualifications, but you will also be enriched with the cultural diversity and experience. You are taking on a special challenge of studying in a foreign country with a foreign culture. That takes courage and great deal of commitment,” she said.
Ms. Muwanguzi encouraged students to utilize the services of the International Office when she said, “the International office is happy to be the reference point for all your queries both academically and socially in liaison with other administrative units within the University. We will do our best to support you during you stay. We want your experience at Makerere University to be a positive one both academically and personally.”
Representing Mr. Charles Ssentogo-the Deputy Registrar (Undergraduate Admissions and Records Division), Ms. Macrine Namaganda encouraged students to make use of their time and opportunities. “Talk to people, ask questions and exchange ideas with others. Don’t be afraid to enter into discussions with fellow students or to explain your perspectives to your lecturers. In that way, you will learn more about us and will also learn new ways of doing things,” she stated.
Mr. Didus Bamwine who represented the Manager-Counselling and Guidance Centre, called upon students to utilize the counselling and guidance services. “we handle academic issues, psychological issues and also love and relationships. Do not hesitate to come to our offices in case you need help. We offer free Counselling and guidance services,” he said.
Article by Mak-Public Relations office
The Director of Makerere University Jinja Campus, Associate Professor Ronald Kakungulu-Mayambala, has urged students to familiarise themselves with the Safeguarding policy aimed at creating a safer and more inclusive learning environment.
Speaking during the safeguarding policy sensitization meeting held today Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at the Civil Service College, Jinja, Prof. Kakungulu-Mayambala, emphasized the importance of awareness and adherence to the policy, which seeks to protect students, staff, and other stakeholders from all forms of abuse, harassment, exploitation, and discrimination.
“As Management we want every student to enjoy their stay at the University without being tormented and that can only happen, if students know their rights by reading about different policies on our website. You are meant to be living in a safe environment. We do not want anybody’s dream to be shattered or somebody to drop out from University,” Prof. Kakungulu-Mayambala, said.
In his speech, Prof. Kakungulu-Mayambala, also called upon students who have complaints but do not know the reporting lines, to approach staff safeguarding champions to make sure that they live in a safe environment.
Addressing guests, Emmanuel Muchake, the Guild Administrator at Jinja Campus, pointed out that the launch of the safeguarding policy is timely because as a University, without creating a conducive environment for teaching and learning, they will not have students graduate.
On Friday, April 4,2025, the Third Deputy Prime Minister and Minister without Portfolio, Right Honourable Lukia Isanga Nakadama, officially launched the Safeguarding Policy and commended Makerere University for crafting a policy that 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.
The Safeguarding Policy was developed in response to the growing need for institutions of higher learning to implement proactive measures that address concerns related to student welfare, mental health, gender-based violence, and power imbalances in academic settings.
Some of 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 which are often high risks for students with disabilities and international students.
The safeguarding policy sensitization meeting in Jinja Campus brought together students and staff in a meaningful dialogue on safeguarding issues affecting learning.
The event was graced by Dr. Rodney Rugyema, from the Dean of Students Office, who emphasized the University’s commitment to the well-being of all its members. In his remarks, he highlighted the importance of safeguarding policies in preventing abuse, harassment, exploitation, and other forms of misconduct within the Jinja Campus community.
“Safeguarding is not a one-time action, but a continuous culture of care and accountability. We all have a role to play in ensuring a safe and respectful space for learning and growth,” Dr Rugyema, said.
The sensitization session covered key topics including; recognizing signs of abuse, understanding reporting procedures on the MakSafeSpace and fostering mutual respect among peers.
Participants were encouraged to actively engage and reflect on their roles in upholding safety standards both on and off campus.
Students who attended the sensitization welcomed the initiative, with many expressing optimism that the policy would improve campus safety and encourage victims to come forward without fear of retaliation.
“We have seen issues go unreported in the past because students didn’t know where to turn. This policy provides clarity and assurance that the university is taking these matters seriously,” noted, a third-year student.
The University plans to conduct a series of sensitization workshops and distribute printed copies of the policy to ensure that every member of the campus community is well-informed. This initiative is part of Makerere University‘s broader strategy to reinforce its values of integrity, respect, and protection for all.
The Safeguarding Sensitization Meeting concluded with a collective pledge to uphold safety, dignity, and mutual respect within the University community.
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