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.

Makerere University has once again cemented its place as a regional leader in academic excellence after successfully hosting the East African Universities Debate Championships (EAUDC) 2026, welcoming the continent’s brightest young minds for a week of intellectual competition, cultural exchange, and leadership development.

Held from 26^th July to 1^st August 2026, the championship brought together more than 200 student debaters, adjudicators and delegates from 25 universities across Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, South Sudan and other invited institutions, transforming the Ivory Tower into East Africa’s premier arena for ideas, innovation and public discourse.

The week-long tournament featured rigorous British Parliamentary debate rounds, public speaking competitions, adjudication workshops and networking sessions designed to sharpen critical thinking, leadership and persuasive communication. Participants debated contemporary issues ranging from governance and economic transformation to technology, public health, climate change and Africa’s future.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Deputy Vice Chancellor welcomed delegates to Makerere University, emphasizing the institution’s enduring commitment to nurturing graduates who are not only academically accomplished but also capable of leading meaningful conversations that shape society. The championship reflected Makerere’s vision of producing graduates who are innovative, analytical and prepared to address regional and global challenges.

Beyond competition, EAUDC 2026 became a celebration of East African unity. Delegates experienced Uganda’s rich cultural heritage through social events, campus tours and cultural showcases that fostered friendships beyond national borders. The interactions reinforced the championship’s belief that dialogue remains one of the strongest foundations for regional integration and peaceful cooperation.

The tournament concluded with an electrifying Grand Finale witnessed by students, alumni, university leaders, invited guests and debate enthusiasts. The Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Education and Sports Hon. Eng. Cuthbert Abigaba represented the Speaker of Parliament as the Guest of Honour. In his remarks he congratulated Makerere University on the successful event and encouraged debate among students.

Prof Sarah Ssali the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs at Makerere University pledged continuous support from the administration towards Makerere Debate Union. Teams demonstrated exceptional research, analytical reasoning and eloquence before a distinguished panel of international adjudicators, bringing to a close one of the most competitive editions of the championship.

The successful hosting of EAUDC 2026 marks another milestone in Makerere University‘s growing reputation as a centre of excellence for debating and public speaking. The event builds on the university’s long-standing tradition of producing outstanding debaters while providing students with opportunities to engage with peers from across the region in meaningful intellectual exchange.

As the championship drew to a close, participants departed Kampala with new friendships, stronger networks and renewed inspiration to continue using debate as a tool for leadership, democratic participation and social transformation.

With the East African chapter successfully concluded, attention now turns to the Pan-African Universities Debating Championship (PAUDC) 2026, where Makerere University will once again represent East Africa on the continental stage.

This April–June 2026 edition of the Makerere University Newsletter captures a decisive push toward becoming a research-led institution. Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe’s college engagements emphasized prioritizing graduate training to ensure research addresses Uganda’s and Africa’s development needs.

New Memoranda of Understanding are deepening collaborative research, staff and student exchanges, and the conversion of knowledge into practical solutions. The upgraded Makerere Financial Management System (Mak-FMS), launched this quarter, exemplifies institutional innovation by enabling fully paperless financial processes that boost efficiency, transparency and accountability.

Individual achievement also highlights our global reach. Mr. Kiggundu Muhammed’s win in the University of Groningen’s Erasmus+ African Perspectives Video Contest showcases how Makerere minds contribute distinctive African insights to international discourse. Complementary efforts, such as the sign-language training for undertaking Pharmacy students, demonstrate research-informed practice that advances inclusive service delivery.

The upgraded Makerere Financial Management System (Mak-FMS), launched this quarter, exemplifies institutional innovation by enabling fully paperless financial processes that boost efficiency, transparency and accountability.

Together, these developments confirm that Makerere’s research output is growing in both scale and relevance. As Makerere natures cultivate the next generation of scholars and innovators, we remain committed to producing knowledge that transforms lives, strengthens communities, and positions Uganda as a continental leader in higher education and innovation. As We Build for the Future

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