On Monday 14th April 2025, the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) administration, staff and students witnessed the handover of office from the 90th College Guild Council chaired by Jackson Byamukama to the 91st team led by Ssozi Fahad Batte.
In his maiden speech, the Chairperson of the 91st College Guild Council, Ssozi Fahad Batte expressed gratitude for the support that he received from faculty and fellow students, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and leadership in shaping the future of the college.
“Thank you for joining us today as I step into this esteemed role,” Ssozi began, remarking on the vital connectivity between students and faculty.
Setting a clear vision for his tenure, Ssozi introduced the “Three Cs” of his manifesto: Clarity, Creativity, and Communication. “I am here to build a strong institution rooted in transparency,” he stated, highlighting the need for open communication and innovative thinking among students.
Ssozi articulated his focus on enhancing entrepreneurship initiatives through collaboration with the administration, students and stakeholders to provide a platform to students to present their ideas and innovations.
Noting that financial constraints pose a challenge to the implementation of some of the student initiatives, Ssozi underscored his determination to work tirelessly to address these needs, encouraging students to rally together in pursuit of funding for vital projects.
Ssozi called for a collective effort among students and faculty to foster integrity and purpose within the institution. He pledged an era characterized by progress, engagement, and a shared vision for excellence.
His counterpart, Byamukama Junior, the outgoing Chairperson of the 90th College Guild Council urged leaders to focus on service delivery to students.
Highlighting some of the achievements during his tenure, Byamukama outlined the career guidance initiatives, which equipped students with valuable insights and prepared them for the future. He thanked the administration for supporting the environmental sustainability project aimed at enhancing the college’s aesthetic and promoting ecological responsibility. He also mentioned the successful organization of the COBAMS Gala that showcased the college’s talent and unity.
Expressing his appreciation, Byamukama stated, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together,” illustrating the importance of collaboration and teamwork. He recognized various stakeholders, including college leaders and students, for their support throughout his term.
As he passed the torch to the incoming leadership, he urged them to “foster collaboration”, “sustain key projects”, and ensure inclusivity within the college. He reminded them that the future of COBAMS relies on every member of the community, encouraging them to rise above challenges and act with resolve.
The College Principal, Prof. Edward Bbaale represented by The Deputy Principal, Prof. James Wokadala congratulated the outgoing 90th College Guild Council led by Byamukama for prioritizing the needs of students. Prof. Wokadala noted that the career guidance seminar coordinated by the 90th College Guild Council set a new standard for student engagement.
“My heart is full of happiness. I acknowledge the contributions of our outgoing leadership. I emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts in attaining shared goals,” remarked the Deputy Principal. He explained that the career guidance seminar showcased the college’s commitment to enhancing student career readiness, underlining the vital role student leadership plays in academic success.
Prof. Wokadala congratulated the incoming student leadership upon assumption of duties. He expressed the readiness of the Principal, Deputy Principal, Deans, Heads of Departments and staff to working with the student leaders to ensure that the College continues to shine.
The Deputy Principal urged the new Chairperson-Ssozi, to mobilize students for various activities, including research projects aimed at fostering collaboration between students and faculty. “It’s your duty to ensure you tap into those opportunities,” he stated, calling for increased student involvement in academic research.
Additionally, he encouraged the new cabinet to envision an international conference as a means of cultivating further connections within the academic community. “Let us bring in prominent speakers and expand our horizons, even if it may seem daunting,” he added, motivating the leadership to seek external support for such initiatives.
He committed to provision of mentorship, expressing his willingness to work closely with students to foster a supportive environment. This commitment to collaboration and transparency is expected to strengthen the bonds between faculty and students, ensuring that the legacy of success continues to flourish in the College of Business and Management Sciences.
The outgoing student leadership, led by Byamukama Junior, handed over files to the incoming leaders and received certificates in appreciation of their devoted service. With a renewed focus on collaboration and student engagement, the College of Business and Management Sciences is ready to continue its legacy of success, driven by the collective efforts of students, faculty, and leadership.