Mak VC challenges new Guild President to collaborate with University Council

Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | Professor Henry Arinaitwe, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration at Makerere University, has emphasized the importance of collaboration between student leaders and the University Council to address issues affecting students.

He made these remarks during the swearing-in ceremony of the newly elected Guild President, Vincent Lubega Nsamba, and other student leaders. Nsamba emerged victorious in a highly competitive race, securing 2540 votes, and replacing Robert Maseruka as the 90th Guild President.

Arinaitwe, representing the Vice Chancellor, urged Nsamba to work closely with the university administration and utilize the university council, where he would be representing students, to discuss and resolve student-related issues.

Addressing the gathering, Nsamba highlighted several challenges facing students, including insecurity in university halls, the expulsion of small businesses, pending laboratory renovations, and issues regarding government allowances for law students. He affirmed that addressing these concerns would be his top priority.

Nsamba also called for open discussions on the impact of the new Guild law 2022 on student welfare, criticizing certain provisions that have been viewed as limiting student rights. The statute, implemented in 2022, has faced criticism from students, particularly regarding its nonpartisan stance and virtual nature of student elections.

Outgoing Guild President Robert Maseruka urged Nsamba to continue advocating for initiatives started by the previous leadership, such as course accreditation, prompt release of transcripts, and revision of the Guild statute.

The call for collaboration between student leaders and university authorities reflects an ongoing effort to address student concerns and improve the overall university experience at Makerere.

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URN