The Chairperson of Council, Mrs Lorna Magara (L) presents a plaque to Rotary International President Shekhar Mehta in appreciation of his visit and invaluable service, 15th September 2021, CTF1, Makerere University.
Rotary International President Shekhar Mehta has appreciated Makerere University for supporting and carrying forward the newly introduced programme aimed at advancing peace on the African Continent. Launched in January 2020, the Rotary Peace Centre at Makerere University runs a postgraduate diploma programme in Peace-building and Conflict Transformation. The hands-on program entails coursework that addresses topics including human rights, governance, and the role of the media in conflict. Other studies focus on refugees and migration, as well as resource and identity-based conflicts.
At a high level meeting held with the University leadership on 15th September 2021 at CTF1, President Shekhar Mehta said Rotary International was proud to be partnering with Makerere to promote peace on the African Continent. “The mere absence of war does not translate into total peace. Besides war, there are many other factors undermining peaceful co-existence. It is our duty to address these issues so as to create harmony in our communities. Through the Rotary Peace Centres across the globe, we are undertaking a number of initiatives aimed at promoting peace. Since 2002, the Rotary Peace Centres have trained more than 1,300 fellows who are working to advance peace in more than 115 countries. We are happy to work with Makerere University to foster peace and development on the African Continent,” he noted. President Shekhar Mehta, who was on a three-day tour of Rotary projects in Uganda, was visiting Makerere for the first time since the University won the bid to host the International Rotary Peace Centre, the first of its kind on the African Continent.
President Shekhar Mehta, who was in company of past and current Governors of Districts 9213 and 9214, said peace was a necessary catalyst for the progress of humanity and general development of nation states across the globe. Elected for the 2021-22 term, President Shekhar Mehta, through his year theme Serve to Change Lives, asks Rotarians to participate in service projects where they can make a difference in their communities and the people who live in them. Since he joined Rotary in 1984 as a member of the Rotary Club of Calcutta-Mahanagar, West Bengal, India, President Shekhar Mehta has led many major service initiatives in India and South Asia, including among others, constructing 500 homes for Tsunami survivors at Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and starting the Shelter Kit programme in India which has served about 20 disasters and benefited about 75,000 disaster victims.
Delivering her remarks, the Chairperson Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara appreciated Rotary International for entrusting Makerere University with the mandate to host the first rotary peace centre on the African Continent. “Choosing to house the Centre at Makerere University shows Rotary International’s trust and confidence in Makerere and her vision for building for the future. We are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the advancement of Rotary International’s agenda. We also sincerely appreciate Rotarians all over the world who have committed funds to support the Rotary Peace Centre at Makerere University,” she noted. Similarly, she appreciated The Rotary Foundation (TRF) of Canada for setting up an endowment fund for the Peace Centre. “This will go a long way in ensuring the sustainability of the Peace Centre at Makerere University. The fund will help in the Capstone week where Fellows will present their social initiatives. These initiatives will showcase how the Rotary Peace Centre contributes to positive peace initiatives all over the world.”
In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe informed the President that the decision to establish the first Rotary Peace Centre in Africa at Makerere University was welcomed with ‘excitement and gratefulness’. “We consider this to be a vote of confidence in our efforts in the peace and conflict resolution agenda. We extend our appreciation to Rotarians in Uganda and beyond for selflessly supporting this noble cause.” The Vice Chancellor appreciated the leadership of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Makerere, and the Director of the Centre, Dr Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala for their tireless efforts in ensuring the centre achieves the intended objective.
By the end of this year, the Centre will have hosted two cohorts of peace fellows. The first cohort was at Makerere University between February and May, 2021. Currently, these Peace fellows are carrying out their peace initiatives in their communities. The second cohort will report on September 27, 2021. In both cohorts, Peace Fellows were chosen from 20 countries and by the end of the year, the Centre will have had a total of 36 Fellows.
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.