Makerere University officially kicked off the 2025/2026 academic year with a Freshers’ Orientation held at the Freedom Square on Monday 4^th August 2025. The event was presided over by the Academic Registrar, Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza, who also serves as the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs.

In his address, Prof. Buyinza welcomed the new students and congratulated them on earning a place at Uganda’s premier institution. He emphasized the importance of hard work, determination, and resilience in achieving success. Prof. Buyinza encouraged the freshers to maintain focus on their academic goals, particularly excellence and graduation. “Focus on your goal. Keep an eye on your goal,” he advised.

He pointed out the broad range of opportunities available to students including sports, music, drama, and professional networks while cautioning that the university journey would have its challenges. He underscored the value of self-reflection and growth through failure. He also warned students against distractions from politicians, religious factions, and entrepreneurs, urging them to stay vigilant and disciplined. Stressing the need for a balanced university experience, Prof. Buyinza highlighted financial discipline and the perils of materialism. He further encouraged students to embrace diversity and broaden their networks. “You’ve come from diverse geographical and cultural backgrounds to pursue your mission and dreams as a student, open up, embrace diversity,” he said.

The Dean of Students, Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, addressed the new entrants and clarified the role of her office in student welfare, accommodation, and discipline. She reminded students of the need to adhere to university rules and regulations. “The Dean of Students’ Office enforces students’ discipline,” she stated, adding that her office is there to guide students through their academic journey. She also urged students to prioritize essential needs, especially those related to their health. “Please buy food, don’t buy phones, it’s about your wellbeing,” she advised.

Mr. Charles Ssentongo, the Deputy Registrar, Undergraduate Admissions and Records, made important announcements regarding academic processes. He confirmed that the mop-up and appeals admission lists would be uploaded within the orientation week and urged government-sponsored students to collect their admission letters from their respective colleges. Mr. Sentongo also noted that change of programmes or subjects would remain open until 15^th August 2025, but emphasized that eligibility and space availability within programmes were prerequisites. He added that orientation activities at the college level would continue until Friday, and that lectures would begin on 11^th August.

91^st Guild President H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James also welcomed the freshers, emphasizing the importance of participating in university life and activities. Accompanied by Vice President H.E. Kadondi Gracious, he spoke about Makerere’s longstanding reputation as a breeding ground for thinkers and leaders across the globe. Drawing from his personal journey from sports to leadership, he encouraged students to dream big and be intentional with their lives. He warned against distractions such as unhealthy relationships, HIV/AIDS, drug abuse, and gambling. “Don’t use tuition, for cheap money,” he cautioned, while stressing the value of faith, hard work, and purpose.

Security tips were also shared with the new students by Assistant Inspector General of Police, Bamunoba Ubaldo, who encouraged students to remain alert and prioritize personal safety. “Be alert, plan for the worst, use your common sense and keep a low profile,” he advised. He also recommended avoiding isolated areas, varying routines, and staying within groups.

Mr. Author Moses Opio, the Ag. Principal IT Officer from DICTS, guided students on how to activate their student portal and register correctly as freshers. He also warned against unsafe internet practices. “In terms of security, please do not watch pornography, because the source of the majority of viruses are these pornographic websites,” he cautioned.

Mr. Geoffrey Kalebo, the Program Director explained the Emerging Leaders Program (ELP)’s,  commitment to helping students navigate challenges such as sexual violence, addiction, financial mismanagement, and low academic engagement. He outlined how the program supports leadership development through mentorship, awareness campaigns, and personal development initiatives like the Safe Campaign. Students were encouraged to join and connect with peers and mentors.

The event was attended by several dignitaries from the university administration including Mr. Eric Tumwesigye (Senior Gender Officer), Dr. Ongaya Kizito (Deputy University Librarian), Mr. Gerald Ochwo (the day’s moderator), Mr. Brian Miiro (Deputy Dean of Students in charge of Sports), Mr. Henry Nsubuga (Manager of Counselling and Guidance), Dr. Hassan Mulema (Head, Clinical Services Makerere University Hospital), and all College Registrars.

Former Miss Uganda 2023/2024 and Second Year Political Science Student, Hannah Karema used the platform to motivate the new entrants. She urged them to embrace the challenges and opportunities of university life with enthusiasm, emphasizing that their success in this new chapter lies within their control.

The Freshers’ Bazaar also commenced on the same day and will run until Friday, 8^th August.