General
Mwalimu Julius Nyerere@102: Celebrating the Enduring Legacy of a True Servant Leader
On Saturday 13th April 2024, the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre (JNLC) at Makerere University hosted a conversation with His Excellency Maj. Gen. Paul Kisesa Simuli, High Commissioner of the United Republic of Tanzania to Uganda to celebrate Mwalimu Julius Nyerere at 102 years.
The celebration titled, Young Leaders on an Enduring Legacy: Servant Leadership and Unity, brought together the Tanzanian community in Uganda, student leaders from different Universities in Uganda, entrepreneurs as well as public servants.
According to Dr. Nansozi Muwanga, the Executive Director of JNLC at Makerere University, such people-centered events are organised to ensure that Mwalimu Julius Nyerere’s legacy lives on from one generation to the next as a way to promote the unity and prosperity of the people of East Africa and Africa as a whole.
In line with this objective, numerous speakers from diverse backgrounds participated in the conversation. They shared their experiences and testimonies that illustrate how the legacy, values, and principles of servant leadership espoused by Mwalimu Julius Nyerere have inspired them to strive for a more just, equitable, and united Africa.
Born on April 13, 1922, in Butiama, Tanganyika (present-day Tanzania), Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere received his secondary education at Tabora Secondary School in Tanganyika and Makerere College in Kampala, Uganda. He enrolled at Makerere University and graduated in 1947 as a teacher. Subsequently, he earned a scholarship to study at the University of Edinburgh in England, where he completed his Master of Arts in History and Economics in 1952. Upon obtaining his Master’s degree, he returned to Tanganyika to pursue a career in teaching.
Dr. Nansozi Muwanga noted that Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, one of Africa’s most prominent post-independence leaders was an alumnus of Makerere University. She further noted that it was during his time at Makerere that Mwalimu Julius Nyerere took his first steps into political activism, when he formed an East African group to discuss the political problems faced by those countries, which at the time were still under colonialism.
“We are celebrating Mwalimu Julius Nyerere today, not only for his ideals and concepts but also because he is an alumnus of Makerere University. He earned his teaching certificate from Makerere between 1943 and 1947, so we honor him in these two capacities”.
In his address, H.E Maj. Gen. Paul Kisesa Simuli revealed that Mwalimu Julius Nyerere developed a keen interest in leadership and politics at a young age, specifically during his time at Tabora alongside his fellow students. His Excellency the High Commissioner emphasized that Mwalimu Nyerere’s political fervor continued to blossom during his studies at Makerere University and Edinburgh University.
“At Makerere University College, he formed the Tanganyika Welfare Association, which eventually merged with the Tanganyika African Association that had been formed in Tanganyika in 1929. But it was at Edinburg University that he began to develop his particular vision of connecting socialism with the African community living. According to His Excellency Kisesa Simuli, Mwalimu Nyerere’s political career could be considered to have begun after his return from Edinburgh University when he took on a position of teaching History, English, and Kiswahili,”.
H.E. Kisesa Simuli elaborated that in 1953, Mwalimu Julius Nyerere was elected the president of Tanganyika African Association, an organization that became the Tanganyika African National Union in 1954, at that juncture, a campaign aimed at strengthening the party through registration of new members was launched. Within a year, the Tanganyika African National Union (TANU) had become a formidable political party garnering the interest of colonial authorities. They pressured Julius Nyerere to decide between his political engagements and his teaching profession.
“This was a choice between serving the interests of the colonial government with an ample salary or serving the interests of the people of Tanganyika without pay. Not being selfish and having devoted himself to lead his people to independence, Mwalimu Julius Nyerere chose to resign from teaching. He then travelled throughout the country, speaking to the people and tribal chiefs trying to garner support for movement towards independence,” His Excellency informed the audience.
The High Commissioner noted that unlike other freedom fighters, Mwalimu Julius Nyerere’s leadership skills and integrity enabled him to achieve his goal for an independent country without war or bloodshed. Independence was attained from the British in 1961 and Mwalimu Nyerere became the first Prime Minister of independent Tanganyika and a year later, he was elected the first President when it became a Republic. He was also the major force behind the formation of Organization of African Unity (OAU), now the African Union. Contemplating Reflecting on his legacy, H.E Kisesa Simuli remarked that Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere’s dedication to unity remained a pivotal aspect of his leadership. Many people referred to him as a wise statesman who steadfast championed unity until his last days. Mwalimu Julius Nyerere held firm to the belief that a united people would achieve great things, and as such, he dedicated himself tirelessly to nurturing a shared national identity and solidarity among the diverse ethnic groups in Tanzania.
The High Commissioner pointed out that Mwalimu Nyerere’s vision of unity was not limited to his own country. He was a staunch supporter of Pan-Africanism who advocated for greater cooperation and solidarity among African nations. As a result, he managed to build national unity in Tanzania, a country with more than 120 ethnic groups using Kiswahili as a common language.
“Mwalimu Julius Nyerere was the visionary behind the adoption of Kiswahili as the national language in Tanzania. He used Kiswahili as a tool to mobilize the citizens during the independence struggle. Overtime, Kiswahili, as a lingua franca, has continued to develop and cement the bonds that hold the country together. Not only in Tanzania, but also in the region and more broadly around the world. Kiswahili has emerged as a vital tool for connecting people creating more synergies and integrations as a tool of communication,” he said.
According to the High Commissioner, the idea of East African integration was strongly pioneered by the African icon and hero, Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, who was a committed Pan-Africanist. He stressed the significance of nation building and regional integration before continental unity. He added that Mwalimu Nyerere was willing to delay the independence of Tanganyika, in order to enable Tanganyika, Uganda, and Kenya to achieve their independence together as a single federal state. Although he did not fully achieve this vision, he succeeded in uniting Tanganyika and Zanzibar to establish the United Republic of Tanzania shortly after the independence of both nations. This union endures to this day.
Speaking about his servant leadership, the High Commissioner said that Mwalimu Julius Nyerere was a visionary leader who dedicated his life to serving the people of Tanzania and the African continent as a whole, which emphasized putting the needs of others before one’s own and leading by example.
“Mwalimu Nyerere’s leadership style consistently placed the wellbeing of his people at the forefront, as he tirelessly endeavored to enhance their lives. Some of the key aspects of servant leadership that he exemplified were humility and selflessness to people. He never sought personal gains or glory, but instead focused on the community, the marginalized as well as the disadvantaged in the society. He was a real patriot. He never accumulated any wealth for himself or his family, and he was renowned for his fight against corruption.”
H.E Kisesa Simuli stated that Tanzania and Uganda enjoy long standing friendship built on sharing history and fruitful relations and cooperation that they should be proud of in political, economic, cultural education and many others areas. He reaffirmed their determination to further strengthen the bilateral relations within the framework of the East African Community and the African Union where both countries currently bear noble continental responsibilities in the promotion of peace and security as members of the African Union Peace and Security Council.
He thanked the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre for organizing the event and Makerere University for hosting the prestigious center. He commended the government of Uganda for honoring Mwalimu Julius Nyerere. He urged the student leaders to use the available opportunity and platform to exchange ideas and learn new things that would enhance their ability to overcome obstacles that may deter them from building a resilient and robust future premised on the values of servant leadership.
Prof. Josephine Ahikire, the Acting Principal-College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Makerere University and a member of the JNLC Board represented the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. In her remarks, Professor Ahikire said that the University offered JNLC the space to conduct its work and has since its inception worked closely with the government of Uganda to ensure that the idea grows, not just as a Centre but as a spirit, that could help the region to grow and become consolidated politically, economically and socially.
“The Centre emits the message of hope, the message of energy and the message of African vitality. So, as Makerere University, this is one of the ways we think that the new generation can be supported and moderated. We are committed to evolving into a university driven by research where research serves as a tool and a foundation for addressing our societal challenges. The spirit of this endeavor persists, and it is imperative that we embrace this responsibility to take charge of our lives as African people,” she emphasized.
Prof. Ahikire urged the leaders to know that they have a role to play for humanity. She emphasized that leaders must spearhead the struggle for liberation within their communities. This entails offering the leadership necessary to elevate their societies to new heights, guided by the principles of Ubuntu and prosperity. She reiterated that leaders are the ones to lead the liberation struggle for their people so that communities are able to fight against poverty, create their own unity, and liberate their own humanity. She thus encouraged leaders to be key players on the global scene like their fore leaders such as Mwalimu Julius Nyerere.
Speaking about the JNLC leadership training program, Dr. Nansozi Muwanga revealed that the Centre empowers students and addresses the needs of the youth. For instance, when they observed the gap in communication due to language issues, the JNLC team realized the need to develop and integrate a curriculum of Kiswahili language at the Centre. This approach will be used to equip the young leaders, especially those who have already taken up the leadership training to be able to at least communicate, not only with each other, but also with different people across the East African region and Africa as a whole. She noted that the Kiswahili curriculum that will be taught at the JNLC was developed in collaboration with the Department of Languages at Makerere University.
During the celebration of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere at 102, the Kiswahili curriculum developed by JNLC in partnership with the Makerere University Department of Languages was launched in honour and recognition of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere’s contribution towards the promotion of the Kiswahili language.
“The curriculum is very simple. It is a 3-month curriculum conducted only once a week on Saturdays. We are here today to celebrate and officially launch this curriculum with H.E Paul Kisesa and hopefully begin teaching it very soon with support from the Department of Languages at Makerere University,” Dr. Nansozi Muwanga remarked.
Amidst applause and ululations from the audience, H.E. Kisesa Simuli signed the Kiswahili Curriculum to signify its official launch as a key component of the JNLC leadership training program.
Inspired by the legacy of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, Prof. Tarsis Kabwegyere, a Board member of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere Foundation (MNF) in Tanzania and a former cabinet Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in the government of Uganda, emphasized that Nyerere transcended mere national and continental boundaries; he was a global phenomenal. He described him as true African liberator whose leadership played a role in the removal of President Idi Amin in 1979.
“We celebrated the fall of Amin with the intervention of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere and the Tanzanian Army. The young people must be informed that he was a pace setter in the history of our country. Amin had been here for 8 years and some of us had run out into exile and we returned home after he was overthrown in 1979,” said Prof. Tarsis Kabwegyere.
Prof. Kabwegyere commended Mwalimu Nyerere for the selfless and servant leadership he portrayed throughout his tenure which earned him global recognition. He recalled about the recently held 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit that took place in Uganda where Mwalimu Julius Nyerere was recognized globally as an influential leader. This recognition led to a special event at the NAM Summit for the establishment of the World Leadership Institute under the name Mwalimu Julius Nyerere. He thanked the government of Tanzania that provided 110 acres of land in Dodoma for the construction of the institute.
He urged students who were being influenced to start thinking about the content for that Institute in order to teach the leadership of the new order. He noted that the world is changing and we need to have new leaders. He envisioned that the Centre would be used to produce leaders of the new era especially the ones going to be led by the Africans. He also called upon the public to advocate for making Mwalimu Julius Nyerere a saint.
“The Nyerere I know is more than the one people talk about, he is a saint! That is the reason why we pray every June for his sainthood. How many political leaders in this world do you know who can qualify as saints? So, let us all pray that Nyerere becomes a saint, so that the leadership will have a metaphysical power, and whenever we talk about Nyerere the leader, we shall also talk about Nyerere-the Saint. What a combination that we will have for Africa!” He submitted.
Similarly, Mr. Rodney Rugyema, representing the Dean of Students at Makerere University, Mrs. Winifred Kabumbuli, emphasized the rarity of politicians of Mwalimu Nyerere’s caliber in today’s political landscape. He also suggested that it would be fitting to declare Nyerere a saint. Accordingly, Prof. Gerald Karyeija, a Board Member of JNLC, emphasized on a significant deficit in servant leadership in Uganda and across the African continent. He urged public servants to emulate the enduring principles embodied by Mwalimu Julius Nyerere in their practice of servant leadership.
During the celebration of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere at 102 years, the JNLC Fellows and several other student leaders were given an opportunity to share their views on leadership. Specifically, they addressed themselves on how they benefitted from the leadership programme and how it made them appreciate the principles and ideas of servant leadership as promoted by Mwalimu Julius Nyerere.
Ms. Josephine Aanyu, the 25th Students’ Guild Speaker at Uganda Christian University
According to Ms. Aanyu, they were able to learn and share ideas from the time the Centre took them on as young leaders and focused on all aspects about service beyond self which is among the key things that stand out as the principles of servant leadership.
She observed that frequently, when young people are given an opportunity to serve, they become fixated on positions and lose sight of the underlying reasons for accepting those positions. She acknowledged the legacy of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere who lived a selfless life with a desire to see a unified Africa, an Africa where all people believed in one common thing.
“As young people, we should be able to use the positions that have been given to us to inculcate that aspect of service above self, rather than concentrating on those positions and the glamour that comes with them, hence forgetting to serve the people who put us in those positions. Ms. Aanyu emphasized the need to go beyond mere acknowledgment and actively engage in serving our community, leveraging the groundwork laid by our predecessors such as Mwalimu Julius Nyerere.
She advised young leaders to always walk away from their comfort zones whenever they are entrusted with leadership, just as Mwalimu Julius Nyerere did. He would have chosen to remain a teacher for personal gains, but rather chose to serve his people in a wide context. She also encouraged them not to be selfish whenever they are given an opportunity to partake in matters concerning developing their country.
Ms. Bathsheba Terry Nakakande, the Vice President, Uganda Management Institute Students’ Guild
Sharing her views on servant leadership, Ms. Bathsheba Terry Nakakande said that when you serve society, you serve yourself as well. She urged fellow leaders to perceive leadership not as a burden, but as an opportunity to serve, underscoring the importance of utilizing leadership as a platform to improve the lives of others.
Ms. Nakakande urged leaders to always lead by example and do things that benefit even the generations to come. Taking Mwalimu Julius Nyerere as an example, he used his leadership position and helped his country to achieve independence. Up to now, all the generations have been able to benefit a lot from his efforts, knowledge and servant leadership.
“As a leader you have to be exemplary, so there is no way you can lead when you are not exemplary. Always lead by example, involve other people. There should be unity among you and the people you are serving. During colonial rule, Mwalimu Julius Nyerere involved himself in making sure that his country Tanganyika would fight for independence and get it. This involves serving people and at the end of the day, the future generations also benefit from it,” She stated.
Ms. Nakakande emphasized the importance of continually seeking ways to bridge the gap between diverse groups to foster unity. Coming from a country with numerous tribes and varied cultures, she advocated for addressing diversity by identifying the strengths within it and leveraging them for the collective benefit.
“Mwalimu Julius Nyerere proposed a solution by adopting Swahili as a common language to be used by all the 120 tribes in Tanzania, facilitating easier communication and fostering the pursuit of common goals. This initiative not only proved successful in Tanzania but also transcended borders, spreading to various parts of Africa,” Ms. Nakakande remarked.
She appreciated the JNLC for the opportunity of mentoring the young people and using education to influence their lives. She said that through education, leaders can be availed with the best knowledge and information which can make them become better leaders in the society.
Mr. Gozan Wilson Babinga, Guild Speaker, Makerere University 89th Students Guild
Mr. Gozan Wilson Babinga emphasized the need for leaders to engage their communities in order to understand the problems and needs of their people.
“As leaders, we need to identify the various challenges faced by our people and utilize our positions to serve them. We need to go and interact with the people in the community and be real because sometimes we have what we wish to do for the people, but we are not sure whether it’s what they want. He based his talk on how Julius Nyerere emphasized community engagement, making sure that he always consulted and knew what was on ground. We should emulate him,” Mr. Babinga said.
Mr. Babinga called upon fellow leaders to have commitment for unity because it’s through unity that communities can begin to build their identity. He stressed the need to hold dialogues in times of disputes or chaos. He guided that however bad the situation may be, leaders should not aim to tear themselves apart, but to come to the table and discuss to avoid war or bloodshed.
Mr. Igwe Chukwuebuka Harrison, President International Students, Makerere University
Mr. Igwe Chukwuebuka Harrison, encouraged leaders to be visionary. According to him, a leader who lacks vision will inevitably fail. He informed fellow leaders that before they could take up offices of leadership, they must have a vision, mainly termed as manifesto, which highlights the things leaders wish to do for their people.
Mr. Igwe also advocated for servant leadership and integrity. He called upon fellow members to think of the time after their leadership service and the impact they would cause to their people as their leader. He advised the young leaders to always lead with examples, contribute towards development of their communities in order to leave a good name behind as they walk through the footsteps of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere.
“We shall not be here forever, we shall hand over to other people, but when I am leaving, I will ask myself; what have I done? As a leader, be an influence, lead with example and leave a legacy. Don’t just pass through life, but live life, make sure that you make an impact. We have to be like a snail, when it passes somewhere, everyone will know that it passed there because of the trail it left behind, so that is what we call legacy.” He submitted.
The event to celebrate 102 years of Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere was moderated by Mr. Tumaini Israel Mayo from the High Commission of the United Republic of Tanzania to Uganda and Dr. Gardner Herbert Rwakiseta, the Programme Coordinator, JNLC. Both speakers provided insights into how youth could embark on and continue the leadership journey started by Mwalimu Julius Nyerere. They commended the organizers for a successful event and also commended the High Commission of the United Republic of Tanzania for its enthusiasm and active participation in the event.
Education
Makerere University Charts New Future with the unveiling of the Open, Distance and E‑Learning Building and Strategic Plan
By Harriet Musinguzi, CEDAT
Makerere University has embarked on a transformative journey in higher education with the official launch of its Open, Distance and E‑Learning (ODeL) Strategic Plan and the laying of the foundation stone for a new ODeL facility at the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT). The event, attended by dignitaries, university leaders, and international partners, marked a milestone in Uganda’s quest to harness digital technology for accessible, innovative, and inclusive education.
Presiding over the ceremony, Ms. Jihee Ahn, Country Director of the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), underscored the spirit of collaboration that has defined the project. She praised the collective efforts of Korean partners, Makerere’s project management team, and the construction and consulting teams.
Quoting an African proverb, she reminded the audience that “a single stick cannot make fire”, emphasizing that the success of the initiative lies in shared purpose and unity. Drawing from Korean wisdom, she added, “a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step,” noting that this launch is the first step toward positioning Makerere as a leader in open and distance education across Africa.
“This new building will not be just a physical structure but a driving force that advances our shared vision,” Ms. Ahn said. “KOICA looks forward to continued cooperation with Makerere University and all partners as we move forward together.” she added.
Representing the University Council Chairperson Dr. Lorna Magara, Dr. Silas Ngabirano highlighted the broader significance of the ODeL project. He described it as a turning point in bridging the gap between traditional teaching methods and modern learning needs. “This project is more than just providing technology,” he said. “It’s about enhancing capacity for our students, faculty, and staff. It’s about making education more accessible and affordable, fostering innovation, creativity, and lifelong learning.” He urged staff and students to embrace the opportunities offered by online distance learning, reaffirming the Council’s commitment to supporting initiatives that expand access to higher education.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, represented by Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Prof. Sarah Ssali, emphasized that e‑learning is a central pillar in Makerere’s Strategic Plan (2026–2030). She noted that the initiative aligns with Uganda’s National Development Plan IV, which prioritizes digital transformation by 2030.
“ODeL provides opportunities for students inside and outside Uganda to engage in learning, access cutting-edge research, and participate in innovation and entrepreneurship,” he said. “Now that ODeL is getting a home, there is no excuse for not delivering.”
Prof. Nawangwe expressed gratitude to KOICA and the people of Korea for the US$12.2 milliongrant, describing it as a testament to Makerere’s reputation as a center of academic excellence and innovation. He also acknowledged the support of Uganda’s Ministry of Education and Sports and the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development.
The Principal Investigator, Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, outlined three core components of the project: the development of the ODeL Masterplan, the enhancement of e‑learning infrastructure through a state‑of‑the‑art facility and modern equipment, and capacity building to equip staff with the skills needed to create high‑quality digital content. He explained that the construction, valued at USD 3.7 million, is being undertaken by SMS Construction Ltd, with designs developed by ArchForum Consultants Ltd, and is scheduled for completion by September 29, 2027.
Prof. Henry Alinaitwe explained that the ODeL Masterplan was developed through a highly consultative process, engaging numerous Makerere University staff and working closely with project consultants to ensure inclusivity and relevance. He expressed deep appreciation to the implementing partners, the Korea National Open University (KNOU) and the Korea Institute ofDevelopment Strategy (KDS) for their invaluable support in making the initiative a success.
Prof. Alinaitwe also commended the Makerere University Council for approving the allocation of space and committing to maintain the building and systems once operational. He recognized the dedication of the project implementation team, which includes Dr. Venny Nakazibwe(Co‑PI), Prof. Paul Muyinda, Dr. Godfrey Mayende, Mr. Samuel Mugabi, Mr. Alex Mwebaze, Dr. Kenneth Ssemwogerere, and Dr. Lydia Mazzi Ndandiko, for their tireless efforts in managing the project. He further acknowledged KOICA Country Director Ms. Jihee Ahn for expanding the scope of the project beyond the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) to encompass
Written by Musinguzi Harriet, Principal Communication Officer, College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology.
Students from the College of Humanities and Social Sciences on Tuesday 17th March 2026 walked away with Shs 3million after emerging winners of the 2026 Annual Safeguarding Message Contest grand finale.
During the grand finale held in the Main Hall, five finalists from the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), College of Education and External Studies (CEES) and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-security (CoVAB), captivated the audience with their powerful safety and inclusion messages. The show was filled with joy.
The finalists took part in a series of activities such as a collaborative video, written poems and arts works, among others.
Speaking on behalf of the winning team, Allan Mugisha, a third-year Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences student, explained that their video aimed to highlight everyday safeguarding issues that are often overlooked.
“Creating this video was both a collaborative effort and a challenge, especially since we used our phones to record. But our goal was to show the public that safeguarding is not just a policy or a University requirement, it is about protecting our dignity, safety, and wellbeing here at Makerere University. We depicted some of the risks and incidents students may face, and importantly, highlighted who to approach when encountering such challenges,” Mugisha, who also serves as a student safeguarding champion, said.
Mugisha thanked the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for giving students like him and his colleagues an opportunity to actively engage, noting that it has made them feel empowered rather than dormant.
Khamala Elphas Makokha, a master’s student in Peace and Conflict Resolution, who produced a poster about safeguarding claimed the 1st runner-up position, earning Shs 2million and Mildred Aine Nicks, a first -year student pursuing Early Childhood Care and Education was 2nd runner-up with her spoken poem.
In the popular award, Khamala clinched the top spot with a prize of sh500,000.
Makerere University has an obligation and has committed to continue providing a Safe and Supportive learning and working environment for all Students, Staff and other Stakeholders. Therefore, the Annual Safeguarding message is a celebration that brings together students to come up with a message that will be identified as the Institutional main message.
The 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.
The guest of honour and the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof Barnabas Nawangwe, congratulated the winners and noted that the University is very intentional about ensuring that students are safe at all times because people achieve their full potential in any endeavor when they feel safe.
“Over the years, we have put in place various policies to safeguard our students. In addition to the Safeguarding policy, we have the Anti sexual harassment policy and the policy to support Students with Disabilities. Every student should know these policies so as to know the steps to take in case they feel threatened,” Prof Nawangwe, said.
In her welcoming remarks, the Dean of Students thanked the students who took time to participate when they saw the Safeguarding Awareness message call in September 2025, noting that their enthusiasm and commitment reflect a shared responsibility to promote safety, dignity, and wellbeing across the university community.
“Your creativity, commitment and passion for promoting safety and wellbeing are truly commendable,” Dr Winnie Kabumbuli, the Dean of students, said.
Addressing guests, Prof Justine Namaalwa, the Co-ordinator of the Mastercard Foundation Initiatives at Makerere University, explained to the audience why the Mastercard Foundation has supported the University to Improve the learning and working environment to make it safe for everyone.
Prof Namaalwa described the Safeguarding Annual contest as an inclusive and interactive platform that brings together students, to amplify voices, showcase creative messages, and strengthen commitment to a safe and supportive environment for all.
“The safeguarding initiative although student-led has not only student but also staff champions. Through the Office of the Vice Chancellor, we commit to continue supporting the Annual Safeguarding contest every year till 2032,” Prof Namaalwa, said.
On behalf of the 6 panel of judges, Dr Viola Karungi, a senior lecturer at the department of Performing Arts and Film, explained that they received 22 entries compromising of seven written poems, three posters, two songs, eight short videos, one slogan, and one comic book.
“We assessed submissions based on five key criteria, including originality and creativity. During the review, we found that some entries contained or replicated existing work, which was verified using digital tools by one of our panelists.” Dr Karungi, said.
Other winners included Job Diryo, a 5th year student of Veterinary Medicine who performed a poem and Abraham Tumwine who presented a poster.
The grounds of Makerere University came alive with energy and ambition as students, graduates, and industry leaders gathered for the 2026 Makerere Careers Fair, an engagement that continues to cement the University’s role as a bridge between academic training and the realities of the modern workplace.
Held in partnership with the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) as part of the wider NSSF Career Expo, and the US-Mission Uganda, the three-day event created a vibrant space where conversations about careers moved beyond theory into lived, practical experience. The Yusuf Lule, Central Teaching Facility, Auditorium, the Freedom Square and exhibition spaces transformed into arenas of exchange, where students interacted directly with employers, asked difficult questions about their futures, and began to map out their professional journeys with greater clarity.
At the heart of this year’s engagement on day one, 11th March, 2026, was a theme that resonated deeply with a generation stepping into uncertainty: “Man or Machine: Exploring AI’s Impact on Careers.” Across panel discussions and keynote sessions, speakers challenged students to confront the realities of a rapidly shifting job market. The message was consistent: technology is not simply displacing jobs; it is reshaping them, demanding a workforce that is adaptable, digitally fluent, and grounded in distinctly human skills such as creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence.
Day Two, 12th March, 2026, led by the United States Mission to Uganda, shifted the focus to global opportunities, equipping students with practical guidance on U.S. university applications, scholarships, and visa processes, as well as fully funded fellowships they can apply for. Through direct engagement with credible experts, students gained clarity on navigating international academic pathways and positioning themselves competitively beyond national borders, expanding the Careers Fair’s scope from local employability to global mobility.
The final day, 13th March 2026, under the theme “Connecting potential to purpose: Partnerships for sustainable impact,” brought together Makerere University and key partners, including Stanbic Bank, Absa Bank Uganda, TotalEnergies Uganda, the Uganda Police, Pslams Food Industries, among others, to emphasise collaboration as the cornerstone of career readiness. The conversations underscored a shared commitment to aligning education with industry needs, demonstrating that sustainable career pathways are built through strong partnerships that connect talent to opportunity in a rapidly evolving world.
What stood out most was not just the content of these conversations, but the way students engaged with them. There was a palpable sense of curiosity and urgency, as young people sought to understand where they fit in a future increasingly defined by automation and innovation. For many, the Careers Fair became more than an event; it was a bridge to internship and graduate trainee opportunities, and to careers whose balls were set rolling. It was a moment of reckoning and possibility.
This transformation was made possible through a strong network of partners whose presence underscored the importance of collaboration in shaping career pathways. NSSF Uganda anchored the engagement with insights into financial planning and long-term security, reframing how young professionals think about work beyond immediate income. Stanbic Bank Uganda brought industry perspective, offering students a clearer understanding of the competencies required to thrive in the financial sector. The United States Mission to Uganda contributed to broadening horizons through knowledge exchange and exposure to global opportunities, while TotalEnergies Uganda highlighted the evolving energy sector landscape and the role of innovation in driving sustainability, among other players.
Together, these partners did more than exhibit; they participated in shaping a narrative about the future of work that is inclusive, dynamic, and grounded in real-world demands.
For Makerere University, the Careers Fair represents more than an annual engagement; it is a reflection of its enduring commitment to preparing students for life beyond the lecture room. By convening diverse actors from academia, industry, and development spaces, the University continues to position itself as a national hub for talent development and thought leadership. It is within these spaces that education becomes truly transformative, where knowledge meets opportunity, and where ambition is matched with access.
Advancing Partnerships for Sustainable Impact
The Careers Fair also speaks directly to Makerere University’s Advancement agenda, which is increasingly focused on building purposeful, long-term partnerships that extend the University’s impact beyond its campus.
Through such engagements, Makerere is intentionally cultivating relationships that create shared value. The presence of industry leaders and development partners is not incidental; it is part of a deliberate strategy to align academic training with market realities while opening up pathways for mentorship, internships, and employment. These collaborations are gradually shaping an ecosystem in which students are not only educated but also actively supported in their transition into the workforce.
What emerges is a model of engagement that moves beyond transactional interactions to something far more meaningful. Partners are not just sponsors or participants; they are co-creators in preparing the next generation of professionals. In turn, Makerere strengthens its position as a trusted partner, one capable of convening, connecting, and contributing to national and global development priorities.
As conversations from the Careers Fair continue to echo across campus, one thing remains clear: the future of work will belong to those prepared to evolve with it. Makerere University, through platforms such as this, is ensuring that its students are not merely observers of change but active participants in shaping it.
Caroline Kainomugisha is the Communications Officer, Advancement Office, Makerere University.
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