Makerere University has officially inaugurated the 91st Guild Executive, marking a new chapter in student leadership at the prestigious institution. The swearing-in ceremony, held this morning, was presided over by Professor Barnabas Nawangwe, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, who was represented by Professor Makada Buyinza. The new guild leadership is headed by Sentamu Churchill James, the newly elected Guild President.
A Call for Dialogue and Peaceful Leadership
During the ceremony, Professor Nawangwe urged the new student leaders to prioritize dialogue over violence when addressing student concerns. He emphasized that constructive engagement is more effective in resolving conflicts and achieving positive outcomes than protests or strikes, which often lead to destruction and chaos.
“Dialogue is key to crisis management and resolution. Violence and strikes only cause harm and disrupt the learning environment. I urge the new guild leadership to embrace peaceful means of advocating for students’ welfare,” Nawangwe said.
The Vice Chancellor also highlighted the importance of democratic transitions, noting that Makerere’s tradition of peaceful handovers of power serves as a model for other institutions and the country at large.
A Legacy of Influential Leaders
The Makerere University Students Guild has a rich history of producing influential leaders who have gone on to shape Uganda’s political landscape. Notable alumni include:
- Nobert Mao: President General of the Democratic Party (DP) and Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs.
- Mukasa Mbidde: Vice President of the Democratic Party.
- Lilian Aber: Minister of State for Relief, Disaster Preparedness, and Refugees, and Member of Parliament for Kitgum District.
- Asuman Basalirwa: President General of the Justice Forum (JEEMA) and Member of Parliament for Bugiri Municipality.
- Dennis Onekalit: Member of Parliament for Kitgum Municipality.
- Anne Adeke: Member of Parliament for Soroti District.
These leaders serve as a testament to the guild’s role in nurturing future leaders and fostering a culture of active citizenship.
The 91st Guild Executive
The newly sworn-in 91st Guild Executive is led by Sentamu Churchill James, who takes over the mantle of student leadership at Makerere University. The executive is expected to address key issues affecting students, including academic welfare, accommodation, and campus security, while upholding the values of dialogue and inclusivity.
Conclusion
The swearing-in of the 91st Guild Executive marks a significant moment for Makerere University, as it continues its tradition of fostering leadership and democratic values. With a focus on dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution, the new guild leadership is poised to advocate for students’ welfare while contributing to the university’s legacy of producing impactful leaders.
As the 91st Guild Executive begins its term, the university community looks forward to a year of progress, collaboration, and positive change under their leadership.
