First-year Bachelors of Laws (LLB) students at the Makerere University School of Law (SoL) have been challenged to embrace discipline, integrity, critical thinking and a commitment to justice as they begin their legal education journey.

The call was made during the School’s Freshers’ Orientation opening ceremony, on 6^th August 2026 where School leaders, faculty members and student leaders welcomed the new students and outlined the expectations, opportunities and responsibilities that come with studying law.

Professor Ronald Naluwairo, Dean-School of Law congratulated the students upon joining the institution, describing admission to law school as the beginning of a demanding but rewarding journey. He encouraged the freshers to approach their studies with commitment, resilience and hard work, emphasizing the importance of wide reading, active participation in lectures, academic discussions and practical learning opportunities such as moot court competitions, legal aid programmes and community engagements.

He reminded the students that law extends beyond statutes and court decisions, noting that it is fundamentally about people, justice, protection of rights, dispute resolution and service to society.

“Your role as future lawyers is to become custodians of justice and defenders of the rule of law,” he told the students, urging them to embrace diversity, build respectful relationships with their classmates and uphold the highest standards of professional conduct.

The Dean stressed that integrity remains one of the most valuable qualities a lawyer can possess, warning that academic dishonesty, misconduct and unethical behaviour could have serious consequences for their future careers. He assured the students that the university and the SoL would provide guidance, mentorship and support throughout their academic journey, while reminding them that their success would ultimately depend on their dedication and effort.

He introduced members of staff and support teams available to assist students before welcoming the Chief Guest, Honourable Justice Martin Steven Egonda-Ntende, retired Justice of the Court of Appeal of Uganda to address the new students.

Justice Egonda-Ntende Calls on Students to Pursue Purpose and Excellence

Justice Egonda-Ntende encouraged the incoming students to approach their university journey with determination, purpose and a commitment to excellence.

Reflecting on his own experience as a first-year student at the same institution 51 years ago, the retired Justice acknowledged that Freshers often begin university life with similar hopes, fears and ambitions. He urged the students to make the most of the opportunity before them.

Congratulating the new students on their admission, he noted that they had been selected from thousands of applicants, demonstrating their academic potential and ability to succeed.

Drawing inspiration from the words of Martin Luther King Jr., Justice Egonda-Ntende challenged the students to discover their purpose and pursue it with dedication, regardless of the profession or role they eventually assume.

He emphasized that excellence is not determined by status or position but by the commitment to perform every responsibility with passion, integrity and dedication.

“Strive to be the best of whatever you are,” he advised the students, adding that a meaningful life is built by giving one’s best in every endeavour.

Students Encouraged to Take Ownership of Their Legal Education

Deputy Dean of SoL, Dr. Zahara Nampewo, congratulated the new students on securing admission, describing it as a significant achievement given the competitive selection process.

She encouraged them to appreciate that legal education requires more than acquiring knowledge; it demands discipline, critical thinking and a commitment to lifelong learning.

Dr. Nampewo informed students that academic activities would begin immediately, with coursework examinations scheduled seven weeks into the semester and contributing 40 percent of their final grades. She urged them to begin preparing from the first day rather than waiting until examinations approach.

She also encouraged participation in extracurricular activities, noting that the SoL aims to produce independent thinkers and well-rounded graduates capable of making meaningful contributions to society.

Assuring students of continued support throughout their four-year programme, she said the Office of the Deputy Dean is available to address academic concerns and guide them through their studies.

Makerere Law Society Welcomes New Members

Rogers Sembajjwe, LLB IV student and President of the Makerere Law Society (MLS) welcomed the incoming students and congratulated them on joining one of Uganda’s leading law schools.

He encouraged the freshers to approach their studies with determination, discipline and a willingness to work hard, noting that the legal education journey would be challenging but rewarding.

Sharing his own experience, he reminded students that every lecturer, administrator and leader they would interact with had once been in their position. He encouraged them to seek guidance whenever they encountered challenges.

The MLS President emphasized the importance of attending lectures consistently, meeting academic deadlines and taking responsibility for their coursework. He warned that failure to submit assignments on time could have serious academic consequences.

He further encouraged students to participate in student activities, including programmes organised by the MLS, highlighting opportunities such as the MLS Sports Gala as platforms for networking, building friendships and maintaining a balanced university experience.

Faculty Members Highlight Academic Excellence and Professional Responsibility

Head of the Department of Commercial Law, Dr. Engoru Ivan, urged students to remain focused on their studies with the goal of achieving academic excellence.

He informed students that they would encounter a wide range of commercial law courses throughout their four years and encouraged them to participate actively in lectures, ask questions and take advantage of every learning opportunity.

Dr. Engoru announced that the semester timetable was ready and advised students to familiarize themselves with academic schedules. He also issued a strong warning against examination malpractice, emphasizing that dishonest practices would attract disciplinary action under university regulations.

He encouraged students to prioritize their physical and emotional well-being, make wise personal choices and avoid distractions that could affect their academic progress.

Meanwhile, Head of the Human Rights and Peace Centre, Dr. Busingye Kabumba, reminded students that studying law carries a responsibility to uphold justice, constitutionalism and human rights.

He noted that fewer than 10 percent of more than 2,000 applicants had been admitted, making their opportunity a privilege that comes with responsibility. He urged students to remain grounded in their values, develop strong consciences and use legal knowledge to challenge injustice and abuses of power.

Dr. Kabumba encouraged them to study foundational constitutional documents and landmark cases ahead of their first classes, emphasizing that preparation and active participation would be essential to their legal training.

Head of the Department of Law and Jurisprudence, Dr. Daniel Ruhweza, welcomed the students to the School and encouraged them to view the next four years as a transformative journey.

He introduced key courses including Introduction to Law, Legal Methods, Land Law, Family Law, Conflict of Laws, Criminology and Penology, and the Law of Evidence. He highlighted the expertise of the School’s faculty and encouraged students to aim for available academic and professional opportunities.

Dr. Ruhweza also urged students to participate in moot court competitions, student organisations and other co-curricular activities, emphasizing that practical skills, leadership and personal growth are important alongside academic achievement.

Dr. Hilda Thopacu encouraged students to approach their studies with purpose and preparation. She advised them to read assigned cases and materials before class, take notes, think critically and relate legal principles to everyday experiences.

She challenged students to reflect on two important questions throughout their studies: “Who am I?” and “Why am I here?” emphasizing that understanding personal identity and purpose helps students make better academic and professional choices.

Students Advised to Build Strong Habits from Day One

Ms. Ruth Muhawe encouraged the Freshers to pursue academic excellence through consistency, sacrifice and discipline.

Drawing from her own experience as a law student, she reminded students that success is achieved through daily effort, long hours of preparation and a willingness to make difficult choices.

She encouraged students to participate in activities such as moot courts and legal writing through Makerere Law Journal while maintaining strong academic performance. Addressing the increasing use of artificial intelligence, she urged students to use technology responsibly and ethically rather than relying on it to complete academic work.

Mr. Ernest Wiltshire Kalibbala advised students to embrace university independence responsibly, reminding them that freedom comes with accountability. He encouraged them to manage their time effectively, avoid harmful habits, build positive friendships and remain focused on their purpose as future professionals.

Mr. Kalibbala also urged students facing academic or personal challenges to seek support, emphasizing the importance of attending lectures, learning directly from lecturers and making the most of the opportunities available at university.

During an interactive session, faculty members responded to students’ questions on academic expectations, case reading, classroom participation, human rights discussions, volunteering opportunities and responsible use of artificial intelligence in legal studies. Students were encouraged to engage critically, uphold academic integrity and take advantage of opportunities available within the School.

The orientation opening ceremony concluded with a renewed commitment from the School of Law to support the incoming students as they begin their journey toward becoming future legal professionals.

The orientation programme for undergraduate and graduate students will conclude on August 7, 2026, with a series of presentations planned from key university departments, including the Academic Registrar’s Office, Information Technology (IT), Counselling and Guidance, Gender Mainstreaming, the Bursar’s Office, the Library, and Student Leadership. The sessions are expected to equip students with essential information and support services to facilitate a smooth transition into university life and academic success.

Do you want to study European law in Leiden for a semester? The Leiden Centre for Comparative Regional Integration (CompaRe) is offering exchange scholarships to study EU law at Leiden University, The Netherlands. The scholarship is for Makerere University LLD students or LLM students researching regional integration related issues or planning to pursue an EAC related LLD/PhD. The one semester long exchange programme will take place during the Spring semester 2026/2027 at the renowned Leiden Law School. Students will study courses on EU law and regional integration and participate in research activities of CompaRe. The CompaRe exchange is connected to an Erasmus+ scholarship which covers travel, housing and living expenses. Please note this is not a PhD programme. The exchange programme largely aims to assist LLD/PhD and graduate research and train the candidate in regional integration law, but does not lead to a Leiden PhD or Masters.

CompaRE:
CompaRe is a Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence on comparative regional integration, and forms an integral part of the Europa institute of Leiden University. Our mission is to use our expertise for two primary aims:

1. To stimulate and support the process of regional integration around the globe.
2. To broaden and deepen academic understanding of regional integration through academic exchange and collaboration and comparative research between the EU and other forms of regional integration.

Whilst achieving these aims, CompaRe always respects its guiding principle that regional integration must be custom designed for each region and must reflect the unique cultures and identities of the peoples involved. Regional integration can never be a copy-paste exercise, though the successes and failures of the EU provide valuable lessons that can be translated to other contexts.

The CompaRe-exchange programme:
The CompaRe-exchange programme is taking place during the Spring semester in 2027 (February 2027 to June 2027). During this exchange, the participants are following a determined selection of legal courses at Master-level, covering inter alia EU Institutional Law and Internal Market Law. For the exchange period, participants are recognized as exchange students at Leiden University.

Participants will receive a transcript of the completed courses and proof of their exchange period at Leiden University. Note, however, the CompaRe-exchange programme covers only a one semester exchange period. It does not lead to the award of a Master degree or a PhD position at Leiden Law School.

Besides following the determined courses, participants will contribute to the (research) activities of CompaRe. This part of the programme also allows work on own research, including the preparation of a PhD proposal for your home university or, preferably, work on already ongoing PhD or Masters project, where you may benefit from feed-back and academic discussions from staff at Leiden Law School.

Eligibility for the exchange programme:

The exchange programme is open to 1) Students that are pursuing a LLD-track Makerere University, preferably on EAC related topics, 2) LLM students at Makerere University that are pursuing or preparing to engage on an EAC related topic for their dissertation. Applicants need to possess the necessary proficiency in the English language (TOEFL test (overall score of 100 Internet-based) or IELTS test (overall score of 7.0), or Cambridge English Proficiency certificate (CPE)) to be eligible for the exchange programme. If an applicant does not yet possess an appropriate certification of the required English proficiency, it is necessary to complete such certification prior to admission to Leiden University.

Scholarship:
The exchange programme is covered by an ERASMUS+ scholarship, which consists of a monthly allowance and an allowance for travelling expenses. Furthermore, possible costs for completing the required language test as well as visa application costs are covered by the scholarship.

How to apply and Required Documents:
Applicants have to send a short motivation letter (500 words), a CV/resume, a short LLD/LLM research proposal/ draft chapter, previous writing samples (if possible), and the required language certificate (if already completed). LLM students should have completed their first year of study and should submit a testimonial.

Applicants should send their motivation letters and other relevant documents to
dean.law@mak.ac.ug before 5pm on Sunday 19th July 2026. Copy to aderos39@gmail.com

Females, persons with disabilities and students with fewer opportunities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Assessment Process

The School of Law will constitute a small committee that will review the applications and select the best applicants based on focus on EAC law and regional integration related issues, academic and professional experience, as well as overall motivation. Subsequently, CompaRe will also assess the applications. The selected candidates will be informed by 15^th August 2026, and can then start the formal registration process with Leiden University.

Further information
For further information, please visit our website https://law.mak.ac.ug or visit the website of CompaRe. You can also contact the Dean, Makerere University School of Law Ronald Naluwairo via dean.law@mak.ac.ug/naluwairo1@gmail.com or contact prof. A. Cuyvers via a.cuyvers@law.leidenuniv.nl.

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The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, has commended the leadership and faculty of Makerere University School of Law for their outstanding contribution to graduate training, research, and academic excellence, describing the School as one of the key drivers of Makerere University’s growing international reputation.

The commendation was made during the Vice Chancellor’s ongoing engagements with Colleges, Stand-alone Schools, and Institutes, aimed at strengthening the management and administration of graduate training and research across the University. The visits form part of a broader initiative to assess progress in graduate education, identify emerging opportunities, and address challenges affecting research and postgraduate studies.

Prof. Nawangwe applauded the School of Law for achieving the University’s Strategic Plan target of 40% graduate student enrolment, describing the milestone as a testament to the School’s commitment to producing highly skilled professionals and researchers.

He emphasized that graduate education, particularly doctoral training, is fundamental to national development. Drawing lessons from countries such as the United States and China, the Vice Chancellor observed that a nation’s number of PhD holders per capita is closely linked to its capacity for innovation, research, and socio-economic transformation.

“The countries that lead in research, innovation and industrial development have invested heavily in doctoral education. The number of PhDs per capita is a strong indicator of a country’s ability to generate knowledge and solve societal challenges,” he noted, urging the School to continue expanding graduate enrolment while maintaining high academic standards.

Prof. Nawangwe further praised the School’s vibrant Staff Colloquia Series, describing it as an important platform for promoting scholarly engagement, mentorship, and interdisciplinary collaboration among academic staff and graduate students.

He also commended the School’s growing research focus on Environmental Law, particularly water governance and sustainability, noting that these priorities align well with Makerere University’s strategic commitment to addressing pressing environmental and climate-related challenges through research and innovation.

The Vice Chancellor highlighted the proposed collaborative Master’s Programme in Environmental Diplomacy between Makerere University and University of Padua as an example of the University’s efforts to develop specialized graduate programmes that respond to emerging global priorities while strengthening international academic partnerships.

To further support the School’s ambitions, Prof. Nawangwe reaffirmed the University’s commitment to facilitating the establishment of new Centres of Excellence, revitalizing the Environmental Law Centre (ELC), and implementing measures to strengthen staff recruitment and promotion.

He observed that investing in strong academic staff and research infrastructure remains central to Makerere University’s vision of becoming a research-led institution that contributes solutions to national, regional, and global development challenges.

The Vice Chancellor encouraged the School’s leadership and faculty to sustain the momentum in graduate training, research productivity, and international collaboration, noting that their achievements continue to enhance Makerere University’s standing as a leading centre of academic excellence in Africa.

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