General
H.E. Dr. Ruto Hails Mak Over New Leadership Institute
The Deputy President of Kenya, H.E. Dr. William Samoei Ruto, has lauded Makerere University for championing the setting up of Leadership Institute named after him that will inspire students to become great leaders.
He said this during the laying of the foundation stone for William Samoei Ruto Leadership Institute at the Department of Performing Arts and Film Grounds at Makerere University on Saturday 21st December 2019.
"I am proud to be associated with this initiative at East Africa’s oldest University and highest Institution of learning for pioneering intervention in the twenty-first century," Dr. Ruto told guests.
This was the Deputy President’s first time to visit Makerere University, which event coincided with his birthday.
"I am happy to be in this great Institution of learning. It's a tremendous honour for me to join distinguished guests in this auspicious ceremony," he stated.
"I am immensely honoured in choosing me to be in the magnificent historic achievements of Makerere University," the Kenyan Deputy President added.
He stressed that it was important for East Africans to work together as a community rather than each country working alone.
"If we work together, the better for all us," he told guests who included Makerere University as well as Kenyan and Ugandan Government officials.
He implored the Heads of State to begin a new engagement and forge a new framework that would work for the best interests of the people of East Africa.
The Kenyan Deputy President agreed with President Yoweri Museveni’s philosophy of a United East Africa and called for removable border barriers to enable the people engage in trade freely.
"The borders existing today should not be barriers and roadblocks but should be converted to bridges as stepping stones to work together," he stated.
He emphasized the need for expediting East African Federation as it will advance the prosperity of the people in the region.
"The sooner we forge East African federation, the sooner our prosperity becomes meaningful to our people," he said.
The Deputy President pledged to support the Institute named after him saying he will play his role of inspiring young people to become great leaders.
The objectives of William Samoei Ruto Leadership Institute include; developing innovative approaches to teaching and learning about Africa, collaborating with similar institutes in Africa and globally to deepen the understanding of Africa in all its complexity and involve common perspective on global issues.
Other objectives are; to contribute to discussion, analysis and resolution of central challenges facing African societies through research and extension work, enhancing and enriching intellectual and cultural life, establishing an environment for flourishing study and debate on African languages, philosophies, social and political systems as well as strengthening relationships between academic and indigenous intellectuals as basis for reclaiming indigenous knowledge and integrate this to local communities.
Delivering his welcome remarks, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe invited Makerere University students of Performing Arts and Film to sing a happy birthday song to the Kenyan Deputy President William Ruto, who was all smiles as the students sang.
He commended the brains behind the H.E. Dr. Ruto Leadership Institute saying it’s good for the youth as they will be inspired.
He lauded Dr. Ruto for his resilience and determination to become a global leader and urged the youth to embrace the same principles.
Prof. Nawangwe informed guests that Makerere University is a premier university and the best black university on earth which has produced great leaders and professionals in different fields such as writers, doctors, lawyers, artists and others.
"Makerere University remains the most important institution of higher learning in Africa and beyond," Prof. Nawangwe told guests.
He revealed that the University is strategizing to become a leader in research on the continent and globally.
The Minister of East African Affairs, Hon. Kahinda Otafiire, who represented the Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda underscored the need for unity of the people of East Africa.
"Unity is our strength as African people, we have a common destiny," Otafiire stated. He also encouraged partner states to work towards improving the lives of their people. He commended the setting up of the William S. Ruto Institute as it be will a center of intellectual debate for students in the East African region.
Dr. Paul Bamutaze, the President of East Africa Book of Records (EABOR) told guests that the Institute will be inaugurated as a centre for the Annual Ruto Public lecture where young people in East Africa would encouraged and inspired to become great leaders.
The Secretary General of EABOR, Mr. Simon Gikuru informed guests that the William S. Ruto Leadership Institute is important as a centre where youth will interact and be inspired to believe in themselves and acquire leadership skills. He also hailed President Museveni for endorsing the initiative.
The representative of Kenyan students at Makerere University, Mr. Ahmed Abdirahman thanked the Heads of State in East of Africa for the existing bilateral relations which have enabled students from Kenya to study at Makerere University-the premier university in the region.
Article by: Mak Public Relations Office
Hosts Makerere University have officially kicked off the East African Universities’ Debate Championship EAUDC ZAABU 2026, bringing together student debaters, university leaders, and representatives from universities across the region to promote intellectual engagement, critical thinking, leadership development, and regional collaboration. The championship provides a platform for students to exchange ideas, strengthen public speaking skills, and develop solutions through constructive dialogue. This year’s theme is: From Dialogue to Action: The Role of Youth in Africa’s Transformation.
The event reflects Makerere University’s continued commitment to nurturing student leadership, academic excellence, and regional integration by providing opportunities for young people to engage in meaningful discussions and build networks beyond national borders.
Debate as a Platform for Regional Engagement
Chairperson of the Organizing Committee and Makerere University Debate Union (MDU), Mr. Arthur Akatwijuka highlighted the importance of hosting the championship and bringing together universities from different countries across East Africa. He noted that the event demonstrates the role of debate in connecting young leaders, promoting intellectual diversity, and strengthening collaboration among institutions of higher learning.
‘We are excited to have representation from the different countries and universities. This championship is not only about competition but also about creating a platform where young leaders can engage, share ideas, and shape the future of our region,’ said Mr. Akatwijuka.
Mr. Akatwijuka further explained that the championship provides participants with an opportunity to learn from different perspectives, develop confidence, and build skills that will contribute to their leadership journey. He encouraged students to embrace the experience as a platform for knowledge exchange and regional cooperation.
Reaffirming Makerere University‘s Commitment to Regional Integration
Speaking on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), Prof. Henry Alinaitwe reaffirmed Makerere University’s commitment to advancing regional integration and nurturing future leaders through the EAUDC2026. He descried the championship as a vital platform for strengthening collaboration among universities.
‘Makerere was the first university in East Africa, so you are coming back home. This is your university, and its doors are always open to you,’ said Prof. Alinaitwe.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor noted that the championship builds on Makerere University‘s efforts to promote youth leadership and regional cooperation through debate. He said the competition equips participants with critical thinking, communication, research, and leadership skills while fostering unity among East African youth. ‘As we debate regionally, we are strengthening regional integration. By coming here, articulating your points and convincing others, you are being groomed to become formidable leaders and a force for production and transformation in our societies,’ he said.
Prof. Alinaitwe emphasized that beyond the competition, the championship creates opportunities for participants to build regional networks and lasting partnerships that can support future academic, professional, and leadership opportunities. He encouraged all participants to view themselves as winners for contributing to East Africa’s shared vision of integration and development.
‘All of us are already winners simply by participating in this championship. Whether you finish first or sixth, you have strengthened your skills and contributed to building the future of our region,’ stated Prof. Alinaitwe.
Developing Responsible Leaders Through Debate
The Dean of Students Makerere University, Dr. Winifred Namuwonge Kabumbuli warmly welcomed participants and described the championship as an important opportunity for developing responsible and innovative leaders. Dr. Namuwonge noted that debate enables students to improve their communication skills, engage with diverse perspectives, and become better prepared for future leadership roles.
Dr. Namuwonge encouraged participants to uphold integrity, respect different viewpoints, and use the championship as a platform for learning and cultural exchange. ‘Makerere University is proud to host this championship because debate develops leaders who can engage society with knowledge, confidence, and respect,’ Dr. Namuwonge noted.
Communication Skills for Future Leaders
The Electoral Commission Uganda, Head of Public Relations and Spokesperson, Mr. Julius Mucunguzi congratulated the organizers and participants for promoting intellectual dialogue through the championship. He emphasized that debate plays a significant role in preparing young people to communicate effectively and participate in leadership.
Mr. Mucunguzi explained that the skills acquired through debating extend beyond competition and are valuable in professional and public spaces. ‘Debate equips young people with the ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and contribute meaningfully to society. Makerere is proud to provide this platform for East Africa’s future leaders.’
He encouraged students to continue embracing debate as a tool for knowledge sharing, understanding different perspectives, and contributing positively to society.
Transform Dialogue into Action
The keynote speaker and Executive Secretary of Inter University Council for East Africa (IUCEA), Prof. Idris A. Rai who was represented by Dr. Gervais Ndayizeye challenged young people across East Africa to move beyond discussions and take action in addressing challenges facing the continent. He described the championship as a platform for developing future leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers who will contribute to Africa’s transformation.
‘We wish that the end comes not only with debate but with action. The role of youth in African transformation is very important,’ the keynote speaker said.
Dr. Ndayizeye emphasized that young people, who make up more than 70 per cent of Africa’s population, have the potential to turn challenges into opportunities through innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership. He encouraged the youth to change their mindset from seeking employment to creating solutions and opportunities for others.
‘The question should no longer be, ‘Who will employ me?’ The new question should be, ‘What problem can I solve?’ challenged Dr. Ndayizeye.
Dr. Ndayizeye urged young leaders to actively participate in governance by voting, engaging in public affairs, and holding leaders accountable. He also highlighted the importance of East African integration, calling on young people to embrace regional cooperation and take advantage of opportunities across member states.
‘You must vote. You must engage. You must contribute. You must hold leaders accountable. You must become part of the leadership,’ Dr. Ndayizeye stated.
He further stressed that discipline is essential for success, noting that talent and education must be supported by commitment and responsibility. ‘Talent without discipline is wasted potential. Discipline is what transforms goals into achievements,’ Prof. Idris said.
Concluding his remarks, Dr. Ndayizeye challenged participants to become innovators, responsible citizens, and creators of opportunities who will turn ideas into action. ‘This generation will be remembered as the generation that transformed dialogue into action, challenges into opportunities, and possibilities into progress. The future of this East African Community is sitting in this room today,’ he concluded.
EAUDC ZAABU 2026 is organised by the Makerere University Debate Union (MDU), the official student organization that promotes debate, public speaking, poetry, and critical discourse. The debate will be held from 27th to 31st July 2026 at the Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility.
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