_{By JNLC Team}

On 4^th December 2025, more than 70 participants gathered at Mountains of the Moon University (MMU) in Fort Portal for a three-day comprehensive leadership training targeting youth, young women, and local council leaders.

Organised by the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre (JNLC) in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the training aimed to strengthen practical leadership skills and nurture a new generation of community-centered, ethical, and solution-oriented leaders.

The first day introduced participants to foundational themes such as servant leadership, the meaning of power in leadership, self-leadership, emotional intelligence, mental well-being, and effective communication. Through these sessions, participants gained practical tools to engage and influence communities responsibly, mobilize resources, and contribute effectively to sustainable development.

Honouring Nyerere’s Legacy of Transformative Leadership

In her remarks, Dr. Nansozi K. Muwanga, Executive Director of JNLC, urged young leaders from higher education institutions across Uganda to embrace their central role in shaping the country’s future. She stressed that Uganda’s developmental trajectory—and that of the wider East African region—will be determined by empowered, ethical, and visionary youth.

Dr. Muwanga reminded participants that the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre draws inspiration from the leadership values of Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere, who championed youth as drivers of Africa’s development. Established in 2018 by H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni as a Presidential Initiative hosted by Makerere University and the Uganda Management Institute, JNLC continues this legacy by equipping young Africans with the intellectual, moral, and practical leadership skills required in a fast-changing world.

Expanding Impact Through the JNLC–UNDP Youth Leadership Programme

Dr. Muwanga highlighted that since 2021, the JNLC–UNDP Leadership Training Programme has empowered more than 700 youth leaders from Uganda and beyond. The programme cultivates a growing network of community-centered changemakers capable of influencing governance and driving sustainable development.

To address challenges faced by alumni—such as limited visibility, resource constraints, and weak mentorship—JNLC launched the Alumni Impact Activation Strategy. The initiative supports alumni-led projects aligned with UNDP’s G4D priorities through mentorship, empowerment, and visibility. This approach amplifies our investment in Uganda’s youth and ensures that leadership development translates into sustainable solutions in climate resilience, women’s economic empowerment, and digital innovation,” she noted.

Youth at the Heart of Africa’s Development

Reflecting on Africa’s demographic landscape, Dr. Muwanga noted that a youthful population presents both immense opportunity and profound responsibility. Realising this potential requires intentional nurturing of leaders who value justice, unity, ethical conduct, and collaborative governance.

“This is the aspiration that guides our work at JNLC,” she affirmed. “We aim to equip young people with the skills to think critically, lead responsibly, and contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s development and Africa’s broader ambitions.”

“You Are Today’s Leaders” — Message from Mountains of the Moon University

Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Pius Coxwell Achanga, Mrs. Roselyne Ssali—the Dean of Students—affirmed the university’s strong commitment to cultivating ethical, capable, and community-oriented leaders.

She emphasized the value of inter-institutional collaboration, noting that leadership thrives on shared learning and collective growth. She encouraged participants to engage actively, exchange ideas, and learn from one another.

Addressing the youth directly, Mrs. Ssali underscored that leadership is not a distant possibility but a present responsibility.

“You are not here by mistake,” she said. “The saying that you are ‘tomorrow’s leaders’ does not apply. You are today’s leaders, and that is something we cannot take for granted.”

She commended the JNLC–UNDP collaboration for expanding leadership opportunities and equipping young people with practical, real-world skills.

Leadership, Intellect, Capacity, Health, and Safety — Insights from the RCC

Officially opening the training, Ms. Asuman Nasike, Resident City Commissioner of Fort Portal City, shared her inspiring journey from Youth Councillor to RCC. She encouraged participants to treat every leadership role as a “nursery bed” for growth and reminded them that leadership is driven by intellect and capacity—not age or physical size.

“In your roles as local, youth, and women leaders, remember that leadership is defined by capacity, not size. It is about the mind, not the stature. I may be small in size, yet I lead this city. Let my example prove to you that young people can lead and make a difference,” she said.

She highlighted essential leadership qualities: integrity to earn trust, effective communication through feedback, leading by example, decisiveness in difficult moments, and resilience in the face of setbacks. She also emphasized personal well-being, responsible health practices, and surrounding oneself with mentors and peers who inspire growth.

Learning from Nyerere’s Leadership Ideals

Drawing from the life and leadership of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, Mr. Ivan Ssegawa Sebastian, former EAC Youth Ambassador to Uganda, outlined enduring values that shaped Nyerere’s leadership: human dignity, collective responsibility, unity and cultural identity, and service above self.

These ideals, he noted, remain essential foundations for ethical and people-centered leadership today.

Principles of Servant Leadership

Leadership trainer and clinical psychologist Mr. Ronald Ssaazi guided participants through the principles of servant leadership, drawing insights from leaders like Nyerere, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King Jr., and Gamal Abdel Nasser.

He emphasized that leadership begins with self-leadership—self-reflection, self-regulation, and deliberate goal-setting. Quoting John Maxwell’s famous line, “Leadership is influence—nothing more, nothing less,” he reminded participants that they must influence themselves before they can influence others. “You cannot claim to be a leader if no one wants to follow you. Leadership begins when you influence people through your direction, ideas, and example—and that influence must start with self-leadership,” he stressed.

Mr. Ssaazi highlighted that servant leadership is rooted in service—lifting others, meeting them where they are, and helping them grow. He underscored the importance of character, emotional intelligence, meaningful relationships, and consistent action.

He also shared the “Three R’s” framework—Requirements, Returns, and Rewards—encouraging participants to focus on high-impact actions and remain motivated as they pursue purposeful leadership.

Emotional Intelligence & Mental Wellness for Effective Leadership

Dr. Gardner Herbert Rwakiseta, Programme Coordinator at JNLC, underscored that effective leadership is impossible without mental and emotional balance. He explained that clarity, creativity, and inner peace form the foundation of impactful leadership.

Using a powerful analogy, he noted:

“A smartphone may look perfect on the outside, but without a functioning battery, it cannot operate.” He likened mental health to a leader’s battery—indispensable to performance. Dr. Gardner explained that mental wellness is more than the absence of illness; it determines how leaders think, relate, and make decisions. He outlined common mental health challenges and their symptoms and provided practical tools for maintaining emotional balance, including exercise, sleep hygiene, healthy relationships, journaling, and setting digital boundaries.

On digital discipline he advised:

“The small screens were not designed to control you. Manage distractions by limiting unnecessary notifications and practicing intentional use of technology.”

The Power of Effective Communication

Mr. Henry Kasacca, Director of Dialogue and Democracy, emphasized that communication is at the heart of leadership. His session equipped participants with public-speaking skills, active listening, strategies for giving and receiving feedback, and tips for crafting impactful elevator pitches.

He reminded participants that public speaking is not merely addressing a crowd—it is connecting with people, informing them, and motivating them to act. “Preparation, positive non-verbal communication, and confidence are key. Knowing your audience, understanding the purpose of your speech, and structuring your message ensure that it resonates,” he explained.

He noted that leaders often have only a minute to capture attention, stressing the importance of clarity, relatability, and confidence. He also emphasized constructive feedback as an essential tool for growth.

The Meaning of Power in Leadership

Mr. David Nyaribi, Leadership and Governance Specialist at ActionAid International, emphasized that leadership is not defined by position but by the ability to influence, mobilize, and transform communities.

He distinguished authority from power, noting that while authority is granted, power—knowledge, confidence, action—is accessible to everyone.

He outlined four essential types of power:

• Power Over – traditional authority
• Power To – capacity to act and implement
• Power Within – inner confidence and resilience
• Power With – collective strength through collaboration

Mr. Nyaribi urged participants to use power responsibly and be mindful of who they grant influence over them. He also explained the different spaces, levels, and sources of power, from households to global diplomacy, and highlighted the difference between mobilizing (short-term energy) and organizing (long-term structure). “Mobilizing gets people to the table; organizing makes the table productive,” he noted.

Youth Voices: Picking Up the Droplets of Leadership

Bringing a youth perspective, Mr. Ivan Hurira, Speaker of the Regional Youth Parliament, shared the story of a brave hummingbird dropping water on a burning forest, insisting, “I am doing the little I can.” He likened this to the role of young Ugandans—small but consistent actions can spark meaningful change.

“When the forest of Uganda is burning, we, the young people, can do the little we can,” he said.

He encouraged participants to treat the knowledge and skills gained during the training as droplets of leadership—resources they should carry back to their communities to contribute to transformation.

In the first week of December 2025, Makerere University in solidarity, with the rest of the world, celebrated the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

The colourful event held in the University Main Hall on 1^st December 2025 brought onboard Ministers and government officials, Makerere University Council and Management, National Union for Persons with Disabilities (NUDIPU), representatives of persons with disabilities at different levels, members of parliament, disability rights advocates, private sector partners, civil society actors, university staff, student leaders, and the wider community of persons with disabilities.

The celebrations graced by the Minister of State for Disability Affairs, Hon. Hellen Grace Asamo and the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs)-Prof. Sarah Ssali was attended by key stakeholders including Hon. Safia Nalule Juuko-Chairperson of the Equal Opportunities Commission, Prof. Frank Mwiine-Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), the Dean of Students-Dr. Winfred Kabumbuli, Guild President-Hon. Ssentamu Churchill James, Guild Minister for Persons with Disabilities-Hon. Donita Akakunda, and among other personalities.

The commemoration featured a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Diana Ateenyi Ahumuza, offering a blend of academic, experiential, and advocacy-based perspectives on disability inclusion. The panel consisted of Dr. Naboth Rwakazwaire, founder of Hope for People with Disabilities; Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, Principal of the College of Education and External Studies (CEES); Lord Councillor Peace Sserunkuma; and Ms. Catherine Nakibuuka, a second-year law student. Their conversation explored practical solutions, policy gaps, personal experiences, and the role of institutions such as Makerere University in shaping a more inclusive society.

Reflecting on the times and in line with the theme, Fostering Disability-Inclusive Societies for Advancing Social Progress, the different speakers, persons with disabilities, and participants in general, lauded Makerere University for positive steps being undertaken with respect to inclusion of persons with disabilities. The participants commended the University for inclusive teaching, library services that are sensitive and inclusive, acquisition of a university bus for students with disabilities, sports activities for persons with disabilities, and establishment of the Makerere University Disability Support Unit. The institution has been called upon to remodel the old buildings so that people with disabilities are able to access the required spaces.

Highlighting strides in Disability Inclusion at Makerere

Welcoming the guests, Prof. Sarah Ssali, the Acting Vice Chancellor, celebrated Makerere University’s commitment to recognizing the resilience, contributions, and potential of persons with disabilities. She emphasized that building truly inclusive societies requires a dual approach: empowering marginalized individuals to realize their potential and creating institutions that are receptive and accommodating of diverse needs. Prof. Ssali underscored that disability inclusion is not an act of charity but a matter of human rights, social justice, and a collective responsibility shared by the entire university community.

Prof. Ssali highlighted Makerere University’s strong commitment to inclusivity, noting the Disability Support Centre’s support, campus accessibility improvements, flexible teaching approaches, and digital inclusion efforts. She also recognized investments in sign language interpretation and staff training to better support students with disabilities.

Prof. Ssali called upon stakeholders to make inclusion a lived reality—one that celebrates diversity and recognizes disability as an integral part of the human experience. She explained that genuine inclusion is built on partnership, shared responsibility, and intentional accommodations, noting that these principles underpin the university’s safeguarding policy inspired by the Ubuntu philosophy. She observed that inclusion goes beyond creating comfort. “It requires those without disabilities to actively adjust, accommodate, and treat everyone as equal participants in the university community,” she said.

Dr. Winifred Namuwonge Kabumbuli, Dean of Students at Makerere University, reaffirmed the university’s long-standing commitment to implementing inclusive policies and practices. She emphasized that Makerere values diversity and creativity, fosters mutual support, and provides an inclusive academic and social environment that enables all members to grow, thrive, and contribute as changemakers.

The Dean of Students highlighted Makerere University’s provision of essential assistive devices such as wheelchairs, Braille materials, and white canes to support full integration of students into academic and social life. She noted the university’s commitment to equitable academic participation through measures such as extra exam time, access to readers, and provision of carers who receive accommodation, feeding, and remuneration.

“Let us unite in promoting disability awareness, understanding, and inclusion. Together, we can build a more inclusive and supportive community. One of Makerere University’s core aims is to ensure that everyone at this esteemed institution has the opportunity to participate in every aspect of life to the best of their abilities and dreams as we build for the future,” she said.

Minister appeals for true inclusion through shared spaces and equal access

The Guest of Honour, Hon. Hellen Grace Asamo, Minister of State for Disability Affairs, stated that disability is shaped more by societal attitudes than by personal limitations. She called for true inclusion through shared spaces, equal access, and collective participation. She urged parents to take equal responsibility for their children with disabilities and reminded the public that anyone can experience disability, making proactive inclusion a collective responsibility.

“Disability is an idea shaped by society, and the attitudes often start at home. When a child is born with a disability, many see it as a burden. And while women often bear the brunt, fathers must also support their children. Remember: anyone can become disabled at any point—through accident, illness, or age. So planning for inclusion is not optional; it is necessary,” Hon. Asamo said.

She added that breaking barriers is essential, as persons with disabilities continue to excel across various fields. According to her, inclusive progress depends on creating opportunities rather than imposing limitations, and on recognizing that persons with disabilities are not homogeneous, but a diverse group with unique abilities, needs, and potential.

Hon. Asamo urged academic leaders to leverage their influence beyond the Makerere University main campus, to promote inclusive communities, calling for accessible education pathways, employability-focused training, and stronger advocacy against stigma. She emphasized that leadership is defined by capability, not physical condition, and noted the importance of mentorship, counselling, and job preparation for graduates with disabilities.

The Minister highlighted the everyday challenges faced by persons with disabilities, stressing that both public and private sectors must take action. She praised emerging inclusion in beauty, fashion, and entertainment, noting pageants and showcases as affirmations that talent and dignity transcend disability. She encouraged persons with disabilities to always claim their space and be visible.

 “To people living with disabilities: nobody will hand over to you, your space—you must claim it. Be visible and be heard. Inclusion is a right, not a debate. Persons with disabilities contribute to society and the economy just like anyone else,” she said.

Keynote Speaker advocates for an enabling environment for disability-inclusion

Delivering the keynote address, Hon. Safia Nalule Juuko, Chairperson of the Equal Opportunities Commission and former National Woman MP representing Persons with Disabilities in the 10th Parliament, affirmed that disability is not a single condition, but a diverse experience shaped by the interaction between health conditions and environmental barriers.

Hon. Safia Nalule was emphatic that families, teachers, and communities must create enabling environments, and praised the role of supportive parents and educators in her own life while calling attention to the many children who lack similar support.

“Families must accept their children, support them, understand their needs, and avoid treating disability as a curse or omen. Children with disabilities are entitled to healthcare, nutrition, education, and decision-making space. Sadly, many do not receive these rights,” Hon. Safia Nalule said.

She recommended that disability inclusion requires practical, measurable action: education and awareness led by persons with disabilities, meaningful consultation, and active participation in planning, budgeting, and implementation. She stressed that institutions must budget for both physical and financial access since the cost of exclusion far outweighs that of inclusion.

Inclusivity must span humanities and science disciplines

Prof. Frank Mwiine, Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Finance & Administration) and Principal of the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources & Bio-Security, asserted that in addition to the humanities and social sciences, inclusivity must span all disciplines, including STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). He articulated that inclusion is a continuous responsibility, not a one-off event or favour.  “It is a responsibility that Makerere University must consistently and intentionally uphold, and we are committed to doing exactly that,” he affirmed.

Mak Council lauded for promoting disability-inclusion

Mr. Amon Muteganda, representative of administrative staff with disabilities on the Makerere University Council, reaffirmed that the university is indeed an inclusive institution. He noted that disability-related concerns consistently receive respect and thoughtful consideration during council deliberations, with members listening attentively and responding constructively. He praised management for its timely action on the issues raised, highlighting the new transport initiative as a key example.

“Many people have spoken about inclusivity at the management level, and we have seen it in action. I want to sincerely thank the university management for their responsiveness. Whenever we raise concerns about disability-related issues, they are addressed promptly. One notable example is our transport initiative,” Mr. Muteganda said.

Student leader asserts disability is not inability

The Guild Minister for Persons with Disabilities, Hon. Donita Akankunda reflected on her experiences as a student with low vision and representative of visually impaired learners. She acknowledged improvements in accessible infrastructure, such as buildings and transport. She applauded the determination of fellow students with disabilities to create awareness, challenge stereotypes, and demonstrate that disability is not inability.

“My fellow students and persons with disabilities, I thank you for your resilience and dedication to raising awareness. Despite the many challenges we face, you have stepped forward, embraced leadership roles, and engaged in meaningful activities, demonstrating that disability is not inability. Together, we will continue to prove this  every day,” she said.

Student with Disability shares his experience on adaptation

Sharing his personal journey as a student with a disability, Mr. Safiri Mungofeni, a first-year Bachelor of Architecture student at Makerere University, reflected on his initial concerns about managing practical work, navigating equipment, and moving around campus. “Over time, with the support of accessible resources and encouragement from staff, I gradually adapted,” he said. He added that witnessing fellow students with disabilities confidently navigating campus life inspired him to believe in his own potential and persevere.

Drawing inspiration from global examples, such as Chris Downey, a visually impaired architect, Safiri declared that with proper support, encouragement, and mindset, students with disabilities can excel in fields where society least expects them.

Parents called upon to love and support children living with disabilities

Illuminating both the challenges and transformative possibilities of parenting children with disabilities in Uganda, Mr. and Mrs. Kizito Bbosa, parents of Hon. Catherine Nakibuuka, a second-year law student and Speaker of the Makerere University Students with Disabilities Association shared their journey that began when their daughter was born with visual impairment. In their quest for solutions, they initially invested all their resources in medical interventions, holding onto hope that she might one day regain her sight. When these options were exhausted, they redirected their focus entirely to education, embracing it as the next frontier of opportunity and empowerment for their daughter.

“When our daughter was born in 2003 with a visual impairment, I invested every resource I had, believing she might regain her sight, until I realized that even money has its limits. We then shifted our focus to her education. Truly, the most challenging experience I have ever faced has been trying to educate her,” Mr. Bbosa recounted.

Recognizing that Catherine and other visually impaired children deserved more than sympathy, the Bbosas transformed their personal struggle into a broader mission for change. This led to the founding of the Centre for Visually Impaired Children (CEVIC) and later CEVIC School for the Blind, institutions created not out of charity but from a belief in the potential of children with visual impairments, providing them with opportunities to learn, belong, and thrive.

On 4^th December, 2025, over 200 final-year students gathered at the School of Pharmacy Auditorium for the highly engaging Career & Financial Literacy Symposium, hosted by the 91^st Students’ Guild, in partnership with the Makerere Advancement Office and the DFCU Foundation.

The symposium centred on student advancement through strategic partnership, convening students, administrators and development partners for a practical conversation on career readiness, financial literacy, employability, and personal development.

Advancement Through Partnerships

Speaking on behalf of the Makerere Advancement Office, Mr Awel Uwihanganye, Chief Advancement Officer, underscored the importance of partnerships such as the one with DFCU Foundation. He highlighted their importance in equipping students with marketplace skills and opportunities vital for individual growth after University.

He reflected on the university journey as a formative period for ideas, innovation, and lifelong relationships, noting that:

“University is where impressions are made, and future networks are born. The friendships, character, and collaborations you develop here become foundations for careers, enterprises and leadership later in life.”

Mr. Uwihanganye encouraged students to embrace entrepreneurship, creativity and innovation, arguing that the emerging workforce is driven by technology, multi-tasking ability and idea generation rather than traditional single-path employment. He challenged students to build businesses, use digital platforms productively, and regard employment as only one income stream, not the only one.

The Student Perspective — Discipline, Skills and Trust

Speaking on student growth and personal development, Dr. Rodney Rugyema, Deputy Dean of Students, highlighted the realities facing new graduates, especially those entering the job market for the first time. With humour and honesty, he urged students to approach growth intentionally and responsibly.

He called for delayed gratification, financial discipline and long-term decision-making, reminding students that wealth is built, not wished for. He emphasised the importance of skills beyond academic papers, stating that students must be equipped to create value, adapt, learn continuously, and gain competence relevant to modern work demands.

Dr. Rugyema underscored that trust, integrity and reliability remain the most non-negotiable pillars of professional advancement.

“Let people trust you enough to lend you an opportunity. Be a person who delivers. Your reputation is currency; it travels to rooms you are not in.” He noted

Financial Literacy for the Next Generation

The keynote training session was delivered by Mr. Simon Omara, Business Advisor representing the DFCU Foundation, who walked students through a highly practical presentation on financial planning, savings culture, credit management, record-keeping, career positioning and entrepreneurship.

With more than 10,000 graduates annually and less than 35% securing employment within the first year, Mr. Omara challenged students to practice financial and career ownership early. His presentation explored:

Key Competencies Students Must Build

• Financial management with a focus on budgeting, saving, and investing early
• Career readiness, CV development, interview skills, and personal branding
• Entrepreneurship and income diversification
• Record keeping and credit management
• Professional conduct and workplace preparation
  

He reminded students that the future belongs to those who are financially literate, skilled, trusted and entrepreneurial. Through relatable examples and actionable frameworks such as the 70–20–10 rule, the 7-second CV scan, and the 90-day post-graduation growth plan, Mr. Omara equipped participants with practical knowledge they could act upon immediately.

Why This Symposium Matters

This event stands as a testament to the power of partnership-driven student advancement, a core mandate of the Makerere Advancement Office. By convening industry partners like DFCU Foundation, the University continues to ensure that students graduate not only with knowledge, but with tools and readiness for opportunity.

The symposium strengthened linkages between academia and the labour market, expanded students’ perspective on financial independence, and emphasised the value of entrepreneurship, networks and character in shaping future leadership

The Makerere Advancement Office remains committed to facilitating opportunities that empower students to thrive beyond the gates of the University, through partnerships, mentorship, capacity-building, and exposure to real-world skillsets.

“ A degree alone is no longer enough. With partnership, preparation and purpose, our students can build futures anchored in knowledge, opportunity and resilience.” Mr Awel Uwihanganye noted during his remarks.

Caroline Kainomugisha is the Communications Officer, Makerere Advancement Office