By Moses Kibirango
October 13, 2025: Makerere University has reaffirmed its commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive campus through a powerful campaign themed “Safeguarding Starts With Me.” The event brought together students and staff in a spirited dialogue on shared responsibility for building a respectful and secure learning environment.
Organized by the Office of the Dean of Students in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program and the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), the campaign emphasized that safeguarding is everyone’s duty. The message was clear: “I am only safe if you are safe.”
Promoting a Culture of Respect and Accountability
Opening the session, the Deputy Principal of CoBAMS, Associate Professor James Wokadala, highlighted that safeguarding is a global standard embraced by universities and international organizations such as the World Bank. He noted that it protects individuals from abuse, exploitation, and neglect while fostering dignity and harmony among diverse communities.
“By simplifying and localizing safeguarding practices, you are making Makerere University safer for both students and staff,” he said. The Deputy Principal commended Dr. Tadeo Masimengo (Staff Safeguarding Champion) and his team for leading what participants described as a timely and transformative conversation.
University officials drawn from the Office of the Dean of Students, the Security Department, and the University Safeguarding Office—discussed the link between safety, mental well-being, and ethical conduct. They emphasized that safeguarding is not only about responding to incidents, but also about preventing harm through awareness, empathy, and consistent adherence to institutional policies.
Student Champions Lead the Way
A major highlight of the event was the unveiling of student safeguarding champions—a passionate group of peer advocates trained to promote safety, inclusion, and well-being across the university. Among them were Nassazi Miracle from the School of Statistics and Planning, Tugoloze Simeon, and Edinah Kamurasi from the School of Economics.
“It’s a pleasure to be part of this safeguarding movement,” one student champion shared. “Our role is to ensure that Makerere’s inclusive policy becomes a living reality—something every student knows and feels.”
These champions serve as the first point of contact for students experiencing distress or unsafe situations, ensuring timely and discreet access to support services.
Institutional Collaboration and Commitment
The university’s safeguarding framework has been strengthened through collaboration among several offices and individuals, including Mr. Musa Mulindwa from the Security Office; Dr. Rodney Rugyema, representing the Dean of Students; and Mr. Joseph Ikarokok, the Chief Custodian at COBAMS. Their combined efforts underscore Makerere’s holistic approach to welfare—blending policy, awareness, and community engagement.
Speakers reiterated that the safeguarding policy is more than a document; it is a living commitment to empathy, respect, and accountability. Participants expressed that such initiatives should be regular, allowing continuous dialogue and learning.
A Call to Action
The event concluded with a resounding call for sustained vigilance, compassion, and active participation from all members of the Makerere community.
“Safety begins with me,” one of the session leaders emphasized. “Together, we can create a campus where everyone feels seen, heard, and protected.”
As Makerere University continues to champion safeguarding and inclusion, the message remains consistent—every individual has a role in building a campus culture where safety, respect, and dignity are not just ideals, but daily realities.