By Monica Meeme and Ritah Namisango
August 05, 2026: The College of Business and Management Sciences commenced its 2026 orientation for the newly admitted undergraduate students at Makerere University on 4th August 2026 at a colourful ceremony held in the Auditorium at the Makerere University Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility.
The College of Business and Management Sciences Orientation (4th to 7th August 2026) is aimed at equipping the new students with the knowledge and support needed to successfully transition into University life.
On the second day, the newly admitted students for the Academic Year (2026/2027) listened to the following presentations: Gender mainstreaming programmes, key University support units, academic policies, student welfare, responsible use of technology, and various associations and clubs within the College.
The facilitators included: Mr. Eric Tumwesigye-Principal Gender Officer from Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD), Ms. Cynthia Komakee-Gender Officer at GMD, Ms. Stella Butamanya-Registrar, School of Statistics and Planning, and Dr Godfrey Mayende-Deputy Director, Institute of Open, Distance and eLearning (IODeL) among others.
Highlights from Gender Mainstreaming Directorate
Presenting on Gender Mainstreaming Programmes at Makerere University, Mr. Eric Tumwesigye, Principal Gender Officer at Makerere University Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD), described Makerere University as a place where impossibilities are transformed into opportunities, encouraging students to approach their academic journey with determination and a positive mindset.
Reflecting on the level of freedom and independence that students experience when the join Makerere University, Mr. Tumwesigye said: “University life offers a completely new environment, but such a high degree of freedom and independence comes with responsibility.”
Underscoring the role of the Directorate, Mr. Tumwesigye highlighted that GMD supports students throughout their university journey by promoting their physical, mental, and social wellbeing, enabling them to focus on their academic goals.
“We are available to provide guidance, support, and awareness on issues affecting student welfare. Seek help whenever needed to create a respectful, healthy, and successful learning environment,” he added.
Reporting any form of abuse to mandated offices
Sensitizing the students on gender equality and sexual harassment prevention, Ms. Cynthia Komakee, the Gender Officer at GMD, encouraged the students to exercise their freedom responsibly and remain vigilant against risky behaviours and negative peer pressure.
“Irresponsible choices could lead to sexually transmitted infections, sexual harassment, depression and interrupted academic progress,” she stated.
Ms. Komakee called on students to use the available reporting mechanisms within the university whenever they experience or witness any form of abuse. She urged students to be responsible for their personal safety, resist negative peer influence, and contribute to building a respectful, inclusive, and safe university community at Makerere University.
Prioritizing Academic Excellence and Compliance
Ms. Stella Butamanya, Registrar-School of Statistics and Planning, encouraged first-year students to value the opportunity they had received and uphold the institution’s reputation through responsible conduct and academic excellence.
Emphasising the key academic policies governing student progression, Ms. Butamanya advised students to seek academic guidance when they encounter challenges instead of waiting until problems become severe.
She advised students to adopt effective study habits by attending lectures regularly, participating in group discussions, making full use of library resources, conducting independent research, and taking personal responsibility for their learning.
Beyond academics, Ms. Butamanya urged students to maintain discipline, personal hygiene, and professionalism. She called upon the students to make responsible decisions, remain vigilant about their personal safety, and avoid associations that could negatively affect their wellbeing and academic success.
Digital Learning and Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence
Dr Godfrey Mayende, Deputy Director of the Institute of Open, Distance and eLearning (IODeL), congratulated the first-year students upon joining Makerere University, noting that success at the university extends beyond attending lectures.
“Success requires active engagement, self-discipline, and making the most of the opportunities available throughout your academic journey,” he guided.
Dr Mayende challenged students to develop good learning habits by logging into the Makerere University E-Learning Environment (MUELE) Learning Management System regularly, participating in online discussions, checking university email frequently, and seeking assistance whenever they encounter academic challenges.
Highlighting the growing role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in higher education, Dr. Mayende encouraged students to use AI as a learning companion for understanding concepts, brainstorming ideas, improving writing, summarising notes, and practising academic tasks.
“Take ownership of your education, develop independent thinking skills, and use technology ethically to prepare yourselves for future professional environments,” he advised.
University Policies and Academic Integrity
Ms. Moreen Orikiriza, the Acting Registrar, School of Business reminded students to read and adhere to the University’s policies and regulations. She called on students to complete their registration requirements on time, and remain committed to their academic goals.
Writer: Monica Meeme, Photographer-Julius Tukacungura, Editor-Ritah Namisango, I.T Support-Moses Kibirango