_{By Kevin Githuku}

On Saturday, 25^th February 2023, a section of the 73^rd Makerere University’s international graduates celebrated their milestone at SS Hotel, in Makerere Kikoni. The event was graced by senior administrators from the University, alumni, recent graduates, student leaders among others, all from different nationalities.

This came two weeks after Makerere University had officially conducted its 73^rd graduation ceremony. The students graduated with Bachelors and others Postgraduate degrees in various fields.

The event celebrated the tremendous efforts made by graduates at all capacities which include education, leadership, transition, among others.

This particular group beat all odds in their time, having managed to balance their academics and a well organised system of leadership. The cohort, together with a few continuing international students, happened to have been the pioneers of the formation of the official international students’ association known as Makerere University International Students Union (MUISU).

They also led a team that fronted their demands on equal representation in the Students’ Guild council, which saw international students granted two Guild Councillor Representatives, male and female, and a docket created for them under the Ministry of International Students’ Affairs. This is different from the former system that had international students represented under the Ministry of External Affairs in the guild council, which according to them did not address their issues to the core.

The team also managed to come up with a set of regulations which would formerly be referred to as a constitution, to guide the association, with a well-structured system of leadership that sees them united and meets their most desired needs.

The Officer-in-Charge of the International Students Office, Ms. Martha Muwanguzi appreciated the excellent organisation exhibited by the students through their leadership, social life and academics. She also emphasized on the importance of giving back to the community, and urged all graduates to emulate such values back in their different home countries.

The outgoing chairperson of the International Students’ Union, Deng Baak, from South Sudan, who graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition, called upon international leaders to balance their academics and leadership as well as maintain unity as international students.

“As a leader, you must balance between your academics and leadership. Leaders should also work together, consult, and serve the people that you are representing. We should all maintain unity and keep in touch.”

Duncan Bosire a Kenyan national, who graduated with a Masters degree in Public Infrastructure Management, encouraged the continuing students to serve and give back to the community while studying.

“You feel great when you serve and give back to the community. I encourage you to serve in churches, rotaract, and other leadership positions. As you serve, you are gaining more skills and experience in everything that you do.”

Soumaya Abdou Salam, a Comorian national who graduated with a Masters degree in Food Science and Technology says she advanced her education to support the food production industry in Comoros.

“Most of the food back at home is imported, we don’t process, we don’t package. The food section in Comoros is too low. I decided to study this course to help my people”.

Kamaleu Tania Ingrid, a Cameroonian who just graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Dental Laboratory Technology talked about how Makerere has helped her grow personally.

“I’m just really grateful for Makerere in the sense that I have grown. From where I came, to where I am right now, I believe there was growth. My stay in Makerere has given me friends, connections.”

Generally, the students were grateful to the institution for granting them an opportunity to advance their education, gain skills and knowledge that will help them develop their nations.