Education
CEES Annual Report 2023
Published
1 year agoon

The Year 2023, has been a memorable one in the life of the College of Education and External Studies. The college has made a number of salient achievements, notwithstanding the challenges which when solved made us stand high as a prime graduate teacher training facility in the region and Uganda in particular.
This year’ s annual report 2023 presents the key activities, achievements, networks and challenges registered the college as it embarked back on the journey towards the second epoch of Makerere’s centenary celebrations in 2022 and existence.
With its tripartite mission of: Teaching, Research and Community outreach, the following have been registered:
The year begun with council approving the Makerere University Institute for Teacher Education and Research (MITER). MITER was incepted with a goal of contributing to the University Research Agenda cognizant of the current strategic direction of Makerere University which is skewed towards research led university. MITER was also meant to contribute to the National Teacher Policy (NTP, 2019) – which aims at professionalizing teacher education in Uganda through research.
To achieve its prime goal of professionalizing teacher education in Uganda, CEES, through MITER and in collaboration with the National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC) has initiated a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to incept the desired critical pedagogy which is not only of importance to secondary education, but is key to revitalizing university and tertiary education in Uganda. The college is ever grateful to the Vice Chancellor Prof. Nawangwe Barnabas, the Deputy Vice Chancellor- Academic Affairs Prof Kakumba Umar and the Director NCDC Dr Baguma K. Grace. who have linked up Makerere University with The National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC) which is a body responsible for the development of educational curricula for Pre-primary, Primary, Secondary and Tertiary institutions in Uganda. Cognizant of the fact that CEES –School of Education mainly serves the constituents of Pre-primary, Primary, Secondary and Tertiary institutions in Uganda.
To realize and fulfill its networking mandate, the college has signed a number of MoUs for example: IODeL signed an MOU with MS Seed Global Health to provide e-Learning and e-Content Development Training for Lira University academic staff members. Forty (40) staff trained and developed e-content for their respective courses. The college also signed an MoU with Uganda police to train Uganda Police officers and men in soft skills. The college through CLL has continued to train and reach out to the most disadvantaged mostly girls through its collaboration with Love Binti International https://us.lovebinti.org “ Love Binti pushing Women empower Project and eyes” on helping their basic needs for sanitary pads and clothing by teaching them tailoring and other sift skills not requiring credited academic programmes.
This year, a number of memorial lectures, conferences, workshops and educational webinars have been arranged in the course of the year for example: Nsumba Lyazi Memorial Lecture of “the unforgettable education Legacy, the Prof. Senteza Kajubi memorial lecture where Senteza was eulogized for enormous contribution towards the education sector. The college also on July 24, 2023, hosted the Distance Education and Teacher Training in Africa (DETA) Conference. In the conference: Researchers discuss transformation of e-learning with a call to embrace distance and e-learnings and address the challenges associated with emerging Information and Communication Technologies. The Centre for Teaching and Learning Support, CEES in collaboration with the University College London, UK organized an Educational webinar entitled: Omissions in Sloane’s Jamaican collections: African slave trade and modern slavery building shared futures. The college also organized a dissemination workshop on ‘Increasing Access to Inclusive and Quality Business, Technical, Vocational Education and Training through Open, Distance and e-Learning.
The project was funded by the Government of Uganda under the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF). The college is ever grateful to the government of Uganda and the Ministry of Education and Sports. Staff in the College of Education and External Studies have embarked on a number of micro and macro educational research projects either sponsored by Makerere’s development partners or the government of Uganda through Mak-RIF. The college received a number of foreign students and vising scholars for example: CEES hosts 21 students from University of Agder, Norway. It also hosted professors from the university of Hiroshima, Japan. At the same time a number of faculty went for post-doctoral studies in USA, Finland and Norway. The Malmo-Makerere University staff and student mobility program has been renewed. It is hoped CEES –ECD/ECCE staff and students will benefit from the mobility to Malmo –Sweden. The college will this year present close to 939 students for graduation, 370 of them male while 569 are female. This number excludes the graduate students who are still defending their study projects. The college is very proud of its undergraduate students who incepted a project called “Teachers on the drive to keep Makerere University clean and off liters “.
As we enter the new year, 2024, the college of education is embarking of transforming its face and to refine its facilities to meet the national and international standards for Increased Access to Inclusive education, given its ever increasing numbers of special needs students. This year in the academic year 2023/24 the college received a pumper harvest of close to 1200 undergraduate BA. ED and BSc. ED student intake. It also saw an approximately 60% increase in the number of its graduate student and PGDE numbers.
The college also hopes to enhance its national and international visibility in e-pedagogical practice and research through IoDEL. The college given its strategic direction drawn from the Makerere University-research –led mantle, which pivots on enhanced staff and student’s capacity in educational research. CEES hopes to expand and grow the EASHESD by setting up a modern graduate training Centre with facilities such as smart and educational PhD conference study rooms at CEES-book bank.
The college hopes to increase its visibility in Uganda’s primary and secondary school education space since the DSTVE staff who are key in Ugandan STEM terrain have been oriented on the New Lower Secondary School Curriculum by NCDC staff courtesy of the CARNEGIE (CECAP) departmental grant. The college in the year 2024 also hopes to realize its dream of having the Early Child Study and Child support Centre built.
I do thank the entire College team for work well done in the year 2023. Specifically I thank Associate Professor Ronald Bisaso, the Deputy Principal for steering the academic mantle of the College, the Deans, Assoc. Prof. Mathias Mulumba, Dr. David Onen the out-going Dean East African School of Higher Education Studies and Development (EASHESD), Dr. Twine Bananuka , the outgoing Dean School of Distance and Lifelong Learning (SoDLL), Dr. Harriet Nabushawo , the incoming Dean SoDLL, Prof. Julius Kikooma who pacified the EASHESD, the various Heads of Departments (Dr. Nicholas Itaaga, Dr. Muhammad M. Kiggundu , Dr. John Ssentongo, the Directors of Institutes: Assoc. Prof Paul M. Birevu, Prof. Fred Masagazi Masaazi and not forgetting the CEES-Centre Coordinators: Dr. Oscar Mugula, Dr. Kabugo David, Dr. Dorothy Ssebowa and Dr. Miiro Farooq in AG. I would also wish to thank the staff who have carried out the teaching mission of CEES.
The College Leadership, staff and students do thank the University Council for providing the pedagogical and non-pedagogical facilitation requisite for their work. Specifically, they thank the Chair Council Mrs. Lorna Magara and her team who took time to visit and talk to the staff of CEES in this particular year ending. Such visits are not taken for granted, they boost staff and cause meaningful accountability on part of staff and the College Leadership.
We, in a very special way thank the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and his team for always providing an understanding ear to our challenges and providing prompt solutions as well as providing the necessary mentorship to us all. Thank you very much.
I do thank the government of Uganda and the various national and international agencies which have funded our teaching, research and enabled us to network as our mandate dictates. We do thank you all and always will count on your support.
As We Build for the Future.
Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga
PRINCIPAL
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Education
CEES Orientation 2025: Students tipped on academic excellence, setting goals and development of work plans
Published
3 weeks agoon
August 13, 2025
On 6th August 2025, the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) held a lively orientation ceremony to equip new students with the requisite knowledge required to gain a deeper understanding of the College structures, academic programmes, services, and, its contribution to the University’s core functions of teaching and learning, research and innovations, knowledge transfer partnerships, and community engagement.
The College consists of three (3) schools namely, the School of Education, the School of Distance and Lifelong Learning, and the East African School of Higher Education Studies and Development. The College wide orientation brought onboard first year students from the respective Schools who filled Makerere University Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium and its gallery to the brim.
Organised by the College Administration, the 91st College Guild Council (CGC), and student leaders at the College, the Orientation featured presentations from the Office of the Principal, Dean of the School of Education, Dean of the School of Distance and Lifelong Learning, College Registrar, College Bursar, College Librarian, College Communication Office, College Chief Custodian, Makerere University Counselling and Guidance Centre, and Directorate for ICT Support (DICTS). The students also listened to highlights from student leaders, presentations on Safeguarding, the Emerging Leaders Program, and participated in an interactive question and answer session.
The College Principal, Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga represented by the Deputy Principal, Prof. Ronald Bisaso, congratulated the new students upon joining Makerere University, a renowned hub for academic excellence, research and innovations.

Citing the ongoing implementation of the competence based education in Uganda and beyond, the College Principal challenged the new students to study the trends in order to tap into the opportunities and networks. He advised the students to re-position themselves as a new breed of teachers, professionals and change agents focused on societal transformation by positively impacting learners.
“You have joined the College, at a time, when the Government of Uganda through the Ministry of Education and Sports, the National Curriculum Development Centre, Makerere University, and other reputable partners, are implementing Competence Based Education (CBE) at the Secondary levels, national teacher training institutions, and at the university level. You should position yourself to play a central role in the delivery of competence based education at the different levels of the education system,” he stated.
The Principal urged the new students to concentrate on academics, build positive networks, form discipline specific discussion groups, actively participate in College and University-wide activities.
Speaking in his capacity as the Deputy Principal, Prof. Bisaso outlined three (3) pillars that would enable the first year students to excel in academics. “If you wish to earn your degree and graduate with excellent grades, prioritize classroom learning, independent research and practical internships. This should be coupled with maximum engagement in learning, regular attendance and meeting of set deadlines,” said Prof. Bisaso.
Convinced that quality education begins with quality educators, the Deputy Principal guided students to invest time and resources to become quality teachers. He counselled them to embrace digitalization and e-learning, seek mentorship from those who have excelled in life, acquire professional skills, and adopt acceptable societal values and standards.

Prof. Bisaso encouraged the new students to take on leadership positions within the College and at the University level. “I recognize the College Guild Council, Makerere University Education Students Association (MESA) and other structures within the College that present our students with leadership opportunities. I charge you to take on leadership positions such as Class Representative, Discipline specific association leadership slots, among others. You should be a holistic student gifted in academics, leadership and other aspects of life at campus,” he remarked.
In the same vein, he recognized the Chairperson of the 91st College Guild Council (CGC), Hon. Samuel Asingya and his team, student associations such as MESA, for working in partnership with the College administration to host a successful orientation ceremony.
Delivering his remarks, the Dean-School of Education, Associate Prof. Mathias Mulumba Bwanika notified the first year students that Uganda needs educators who will inspire the future workforce.
Emphasizing the importance of attaining a good class of degree, Associate Prof. Mulumba Bwanika said: “Admission into the University is only the start – the real challenge is graduating with a degree that reflects your true potential.”

To achieve the desired outcome, Associate Prof. Mulumba Bwanika advised the students as follows: “You should have a work plan. Plan your day, week and semester. Attend all your lectures, read ahead of your lecturer, undertake research on different topics, form discussion groups, be punctual and disciplined.” He encouraged the first year students to consult and engage the Heads of Department, Subject and Program Coordinators, the College Administration and student leaders.
Tasking the students to consider joining the academia (teaching staff), research and the administrative arms of the University in future, he reminded the audience that he too was once a student. He testified that he was one of those students who focused on academics, and over the years, he is reaping the fruits of hard-work, discipline, and resilience.
He re-affirmed Makerere University’s zero-tolerance for sexual harassment, when he said: “No student should feel pressured to compromise their values. I request you to read the Policy and Regulations against sexual harassment, and the Makerere University Safeguarding Policy.”
Highlighting Makerere University’s strong academic support systems, the Dean, School of Distance and Lifelong Learning, Dr. Harriet Nabushawo, urged the students to effectively utilize the teaching and learning facilities in their academic pursuits. She reported that the School houses the Department of Open, Distance and e-Learning, which is championing e-learning and digital pedagogies.

The Dean mentioned that the School prioritizes student affairs through an open communication approach, involvement and engagement. She called upon students to have a positive attitude towards voluntary work, and cited Mr. Oscar Kizito, who accepted to volunteer at a very short notice, to provide sign language interpretation services at the orientation. She noted that this gesture alone had made him known to a wider audience, who wouldn’t hesitate to recommend his sign language interpretation services, when the opportunity arose. Dr. Nabushawo therefore called upon students to seize every opportunity and get the best out of it.
Representing Mr. Henry Nsubuga, the Deputy Chief of Counselling and Guidance Services, Ms. Rosemary Nalwanga, a Senior Counsellor, implored the students to have a sense of purpose. “Life is more than a degree. You need to learn other skills outside your degree. Be cooperative,” she guided.

On the issue of building positive relationships, Ms. Nalwanga advised students to acquire good friends. “Positive friends impact your future,” she stated.
Ms. Nalwanga explained that the Counselling and Guidance Centre exists to ensure that the emotional wellbeing of students is catered for. “I advise you not to take drugs. If you have any fears that you have failed to control, please come to Makerere University Counselling and Guidance Centre.”

Delivering her remarks, the College Registrar, Mrs. Joanna Kayaga Kiwana introduced the School Registrars present namely Ms. Molly Nantongo and Ms. Sandra Ampiire. The College Registrar tipped the first year students on academic policies, registration procedures, change of course guidelines, among other key aspects. She underscored the importance of timely registration. “Without registration, you are not an eligible student. You need to fulfill the registration procedures in order to access university services and facilities. Based on her experience, Mrs. Kayaga Kiwana reminded the students that their academic journey involves planning, discipline, listening to words of wisdom, holding on to your faith and being prayerful.
Ms. Ritah Namisango, the Principal Communication Officer, implored the students to participate in college events/functions, be goodwill ambassadors of the College, navigate the College website (https://cees.mak.ac.ug), and follow the College Social media pages, to be specific on X (formerly Twitter) on @MakCEES.

The College Bursar, Mr. Stephen Kayima, represented by Mr. Godfrey Wasikye sensitized students on the financial policies and payment guidelines. He appealed to students to adhere to the Fees Policy and the stipulated timelines. He stressed the need to document and keep a record of financial transactions during one’s academic journey, and urged the students to always consult the office of the College Bursar regarding financial obligations to the University.

On behalf of DICTS, Mr. Yunusu Musisi briefed the first year students on the different online academic and support systems. He appealed to the students to embrace digitization in order to utilise the systems. Mr. Musisi informed the students that the online systems are accessible and convenient. He requested them to always follow the social media platforms run by DICTS for instant messages including videos guiding students on how to use the particular systems such as the Makerere University e-Learning Environment (MUELE).
“MUELE helps students to access course materials, participate in online discussions and submit academic assignments virtually. The Makerere University students’ portal provides a platform for students to register, enroll for the semester, and keeps track of the students’ academic progress,” he reported.

On safety and well-being while on campus, Dr. Michael Walimbwa, a Senior Lecturer at CEES, and a Safeguarding Champion, described safeguarding as a means of protecting yourself and others from harm, exploitation and abuse. Safeguarding, he noted, stands for being safe, informed and empowered. Dr. Walimbwa tasked the students to read the Makerere University Safeguarding Policy, and to always report safeguarding concerns to the respective offices and safeguarding champions.
In her remarks, the College Librarian, Ms. Grace Akello presented the wide range of library services at the College. Regarding library users with special needs, Ms. Akello stated that the library team ensures that a member of staff is designated to provide sign language interpretation services.

The Chief Custodian, Ms. Agnes Nambuya emphasized handling University property entrusted to students during their studies with care. She requested the students to notify the Office of the Principal as well as the Chief Custodian, on matters pertaining to facilities and university property.
Presenting the Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) framework and its benefits, Ms. Laeticia Asasira and Hon. Miracle Nassazi sensitized students on character, leadership, values and embracing a purpose-driven lifestyle. They rallied students to participate in the short trainings and activities organized by the ELP in order to be grounded in leadership, ethics, character building and formation.
The following university staff participated in the orientation ceremony: Prof. Ronald Bisaso-Deputy Principal, Associate Prof. Mathias Mulumba Bwanika-Dean of the School of Education, Dr. Harriet Nabushawo-Dean, School of Distance and Lifelong Learning, Mrs. Joanna Kayaga Kiwana-College Registrar, School Registrars (Ms. Molly Nantongo and Ms. Sandra Ampiire), Dr. Michael Walimbwa-Senior Lecturer, Mr. Vincent Muwonge-Coordinator BECE, Ms. Ritah Namisango-Principal Communication Officer, Mr. Emmanuel Lubega-Office of the Principal, Ms. Rosemary Nalwanga-Senior Counsellor, Mr. Godfrey Wasikye-Office of the College Bursar, Mr. Yunusu Musisi-DICTS, Ms. Agnes Nambuya-Chief Custodian, Ms. Grace Akello-College Librarian, and Mr. Moses Kibirango-Web Administrator.
The proceedings of the CEES Orientation were moderated by Ms. Ritah Namisango-Principal Communication Officer, assisted by student leaders namely Hon. David Ocola and Hon. Kenneth Mbabali.
Education
Distance and Lifelong Learning Orientation: First year students tipped on academic success, safety and responsibility
Published
3 weeks agoon
August 12, 2025
By Ritah Namisango and Julius Tukacungurwa
On Friday 8th August 2025, the School of Distance and Lifelong Learning under the College of Education and External Studies engaged new students on academic success, safety and responsibility. The highly interactive afternoon brought on board university officials and student leaders to tip students on university policies, academic processes, student welfare, registration processes, and navigating life on campus.
Presiding over the Orientation session, Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, the Principal of the College of Education and External Studies (CEES), urged first year students to take on a pro-active approach towards academics and other aspects of life. He tasked them to prioritize their academic pursuits, managing time including being at the right place at the right time, and consulting the designated Offices at the College on academic, social and spiritual matters.
Highlighting the various facilities and services available to students at Makerere University, the Principal called upon students to maximally utilize them to enhance their academic journey and personal growth. He advised students to utilize the Makerere University library services, Makerere University Disability Support Unit, the Counselling and Guidance Centre, the Directorate of ICT Support services (DICTS), designated places of worship, the various sports activities, and among other spaces.
He encouraged students to manage their finances wisely, avoid unnecessary risks, and be mindful of their surroundings. He reminded the students to read the Policy and Regulations against sexual harassment, as well as, the Makerere University Safeguarding policy.
The Principal advised the students to always think about the consequences of their decisions. “Your decisions will determine whether you attain a First Class degree. Your decisions will determine whether you will remain healthy and safe as you pursue your studies,” he said. He cautioned against reckless behavior, emphasizing the need for self-control and responsibility.
Without revealing the names of the affected students, the Principal shared case scenarios of students who had faced challenges, including health risks and financial difficulties, due to impulsive decisions.
The Principal also shared his personal story, highlighting his journey from a student to a professor, and encouraged students to be proactive and responsible in their academic pursuits. Emphasizing that he was once a student, he reminded them to prioritize their academic goals and well-being. He wished them success and safety.
Dr. Harriet Nabushawo, the Dean of the School of Distance and Lifelong Learning congratulated new students upon joining Makerere University-one of the leading universities in the world.
Noting that Makerere University has over 30,000 students pursuing different academic programmes, the Dean informed the first year students that they are part of a larger community and should strive to achieve their dreams and goals. She emphasized the importance of being focused, disciplined, and responsible in managing time and finances.
The Dean introduced the concept of blended learning, which combines online and face-to-face instruction, and encouraged students to embrace this approach. Pointing out that the university adopted this model to enhance teaching and learning, she informed the students that they will be using online platforms to access course materials and interact with lecturers and peers.
At the College level, the Dean advised the students to utilize the College library, the Office of the College Registrar, and the College Bursar. She encouraged students to reach out to their program coordinators, heads of department, and other university staff for guidance and support. She also underscored the role of student leadership in supporting students.
The School Registrar, Ms. Sandra Ampiire, stressed the need to understand the registration process and university policies. She explained that the registrar’s office is responsible for handling student admissions, registration, and transcripts. She called upon the first year students to register to be recognized as university students. She urged the students to access and read the university’s policies, which are uploaded on university’s website. She introduced the student portal and email system, which provides access to important information and resources, including exam results, transcripts, and course materials.
Tackling the importance of keeping their documents safe and secure, the School Registrar advised students about the risks of presenting their documents to unauthorized individuals. She appealed to the students to deal with only designated university officers/staff as highlighted during the orientation.
Dr. Stella Achen, Head of the Department of Adult and Community Education (DACE) stated that the department focuses on lifelong learning and education, and plays a significant role in promoting community education and social economic transformation.
She reported that the department’s programs are designed to equip students with relevant knowledge and skills to work with communities and bring about positive change.
During her remarks, Dr. Achen requested some of the teaching staff to introduce themselves and welcome the students. Those present included: Dr. Joseph Watuleke- a Program Coordinator and Dr. Dianah Nampijja-the Graduate coordinator.
The lecturers rallied students on hard work and dedication to achieve success in the program. They encouraged students to stay focused and avoid distractions, citing the potential consequences of not doing so, including health risks and poor academic performance. Dr. Achen and the Lecturers in the department expressed enthusiasm to work with students during their studies.
On behalf of the student leadership, Katusiime Elizabeth, the President of Makerere University Adult and Community Educators Students Association (MUACESA) explained that they have implemented several mechanisms to support students and promote a safe and inclusive campus environment. These mechanisms include working with students to create a culture of openness and flexibility, which enables students to feel comfortable to approach student leaders with their concerns. She pointed out that MUACESA uses suggestion boxes and regular interactions with students to identify and address issues promptly.
The School’s efforts to support new students were instrumental in helping them navigate the academic journey. The guidance received from university staff and student leaders in fostering a sense of community was commendable. The university’s commitment to student welfare and safety was evident through its efforts to promote a safe and inclusive campus environment.
Julius Tukacungura contributed to this article as a Guest Writer from Umoja Standard Online publication
Education
School of Education Freshers’ Orientation: CEES Principal Calls for Focus, Faith and Responsibility
Published
3 weeks agoon
August 12, 2025
The School of Education at the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) warmly welcomed its new students during a vibrant freshers’ orientation. Held at the School of Education Conference Hall on Friday, 8th August 2025, this pivotal event was crafted to equip the incoming cohort with vital knowledge, spark a deep sense of dedication, and foster a strong community spirit as they embarked on their transformative journey through university life.
In his welcome address to the freshers, Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, Principal of CEES, urged the students to pursue excellence and focus on attaining a First Class degree. He emphasized that the journey to academic success starts with unwavering commitment from the very first semester. Sharing a compelling account of his own educational journey, Prof. Mugagga inspired the new students to recognize and believe in their innate potential, underscoring that true greatness is forged through perseverance and sacrifice.
“I urge you to work hard and aim for First Class degrees. Remember, every moment matters and academic success begins from the first semester. Believe in your potential to achieve greatness through persistence, dedication, and sacrifice.”
Prof. Mugagga urged the new students to embrace not only academic excellence, but also the importance of spirituality. He encouraged them to nurture their faith throughout university life, highlighting the various places of worship on campus designed to support their spiritual well-being.

Addressing the sensitive issue of sexuality among students, Prof. Mugagga stressed the importance of making responsible choices to safeguard their health and well-being. He advised students to abstain from sexual activities, stressing that when they choose otherwise, to always use protection to prevent sexually transmitted infections such as HIV/AIDS. He encouraged an environment of respect and accountability by urging students to report any sexual harassment incidents through their student leaders, and Makerere University Gender Mainstreaming Directorate.
On financial matters, Prof. Mugagga emphasized the critical importance of financial discipline, particularly for privately sponsored students. He likened the cost of upkeep to “a drop of water in a desert,” highlighting the scarcity of resources. He called upon students to manage their finances prudently, complete their registration early, and promptly communicate any financial challenges to the College Registrar to access the necessary support.
The Principal counseled students to remain vigilant about their personal safety. He also cautioned against over-excitement and carelessness, particularly regarding personal belongings, noting that as scammers and conmen are a real threat.
Ms. Molly Nantongo, the College Registrar, presented the key information crucial for navigating Makerere University’s policies and academic regulations. Addressing the matter of subject combination changes, advising students intending to make a switch to submit their applications before the set deadline of 12th August 2025. She urged the freshers to take this decision seriously, as the right combination can significantly shape their academic journey and future career prospects.

Ms. Nantongo urged the freshers to take personal responsibility for staying informed about university rules and policies, advising them to regularly consult the official policy portal at policies.mak.ac.ug. “By familiarizing yourselves with these regulations, you can avoid unnecessary setbacks and make your academic journey smooth and more rewarding,” she said.
In addition, she encouraged the new students to set up their MUELE (Makerere University E-Learning Environment) accounts, assuring them that ample support is available through the College Guild Council (CGC), Makerere University Education Students’ Association (MESA), and the Makerere University Academic and Career Support Association (MUACESA) to make the process smooth and stress-free.
The College Registrar underscored the importance of maintaining accuracy in academic records, issuing a stern warning against any form of examination malpractice. She re-affirmed that Makerere University upholds zero tolerance for such offenses in its unwavering commitment to academic integrity.
Representing Prof. Mathias Mulumba, Dean of the School of Education, Dr. Marjorie S.K. Batiibwe, Head of the Department of Science, Technology, and Vocational Education (DSTVE), underscored the indispensable role of discipline, academic excellence, and active participation in shaping a truly fulfilling university journey. She reminded the freshers that success at Makerere University is built not only on intellectual effort, but also on personal responsibility and involvement in the activities of the University.

In line with her address, the respective Heads of Department, introduced the academic programmes, providing insights into the learning outcomes, core competencies, and career pathways that each discipline offers. From teaching and research to policy development and community outreach, they painted a clear picture of the diverse opportunities awaiting students who commit themselves fully to their studies.
Speaking on behalf of Dr. Genza Gyavira, Head of the Foundations Department, Dr. Michael Walimbwa highlighted the indispensable role of the Foundation courses, describing them as the very bedrock upon which effective and inspiring teachers are built. He called on students to commit to mastering these core subjects, stressing that a solid foundation is the cornerstone for a successful and impactful teaching career.
“The Foundations courses are critically important, they are the essential core subjects that shape you into effective teachers. Always dedicate your full attention to these courses because a strong foundation is vital for your success throughout your entire teaching career,” said Dr. Walimbwa.
Dr. Walimbwa also advised students to consistently attend the Foundations groups corresponding to their chosen teaching subject to ensure focused and relevant learning. He stressed the importance of punctuality and regular attendance, highlighting these habits as key contributors to academic success.
Focused on Student Safeguarding, Dr. Walimbwa laid out clear and vital guidelines to protect the emotional, physical, and psychological well-being of all students within the College. He introduced the seven (7) Student Safeguarding Champions, led by the College Guild Council Chairperson-Hon. Samuel Asingya, who are committed to providing support and protection for their fellow students.
He provided freshers with clear information on the locations of safeguarding offices throughout campus, emphasizing that all relationships must be built on mutual consent and completely free from coercion. Dr. Walimbwa urged students to be fully aware of their rights and to courageously speak out against any form of harassment or abuse, reinforcing the College’s steadfast commitment to cultivating a safe, respectful, and inclusive academic community.
“All relationships should be based on consent and free from any form of coercion. Be aware of your rights and do not hesitate to speak out boldly if you experience any harassment or abuse. Our College is committed to ensuring a safe and respectful learning environment for everyone,” Dr. Walimbwa stressed.

Mr. Vincent Muwonge, the Coordinator for Early Childhood Care and Development (ECD), highlighted the vital importance of focused learning and continuous personal growth throughout the students’ academic journey. He appealed to the first year students to embrace steadfast commitment and an open mind, emphasizing that these qualities are the foundation for thriving in the ever-evolving and dynamic field of early childhood education.
“Focused learning and personal growth are essential throughout your studies. I encourage you to stay committed and keep an open mind throughout the learning process. These qualities are key to your success in the dynamic field of early childhood education,” he said.
He extended a special invitation to all students enrolled in Early Childhood Care and Development to attend an in-house orientation scheduled for Tuesday, 12th August, 2025. He emphasized that this session is crucial for building a strong foundation in Early Childhood Care and Development by providing tailored guidance on specialized teaching methods, curriculum expectations, and professional development opportunities unique to the field of early childhood education.
On behalf of the student leaders, Hon. Samuel Asingya , the 91st CEES Guild Council Chairperson reminded the first year students that student leaders are not just their representatives, but also a dedicated support system, ready to assist whenever needed.
“Student leaders are here to support you. Never hesitate to reach out whenever you need guidance,” he affirmed.
Hon. Asingya assured the first year students that they had become valued members of a vibrant, united community within the College of Education and External Studies at Makerere University. Student leaders from various associations namely College Guild Council (CGC), Makerere University Students Association, Makerere University Biology Students Association (MUBSA), Literature Association (LITASS), Makerere University History Students Association (MUHISA), among others, shared practical, experience-driven tips on how to thrive at Makerere University. They urged the first year students to embrace every opportunity their university journey would present, stay safe, and remain steadfast in the pursuit of academic excellence.
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