By Julius Mugaga Tukacungurwa Umoja Standard.
Kampala, Uganda: A new chapter unfolded at Makerere University as H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James took the reins as the newly elected student leader. The inauguration ceremony, marked by hope and optimism, brought together students, faculty, parents and dignitaries to witness the dawn of a new era in student leadership.
In his inaugural address after swearing in, H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James started by thanking God for the opportunity to lead, affirming, “It’s been God’s grace all through.” He acknowledged his family and mentors, particularly emphasizing how crucial their support has been throughout his journey.
“We have been entrusted to take on this leadership mantle because you believe that no one else but us would bring political, social and academic salvation.” Churchill declared. He recognized the task ahead, pledging to restore Makerere’s position as Africa’s best higher institution of learning.
He also reflected on his campaign journey, crediting his team and supporters, stating, ‘I am no one, without my team.’ “This victory is about every student who dared to dream for a better Makerere University.” He expressed with humility.
Churchill highlighted the importance of serving students stressing that he, and the team (cabinet) are nothing without students, ‘those students are our bosses.’ He encouraged unity and resilience among fellow leaders, calling everyone to get hard as they face upcoming challenges in order to deliver on expectations of their electorates (students).
He pledged to work closely with the administration to deliver effective services.
Initially, had began withThe swearing in of Guild Representative Councillors from colleges, including College of Natural Sciences, College of Engineering, Design Art and Technology, College of Education and External Studies, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Business and Management Sciences, College of Computing and Information Sciences, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, College of Veterinary, Animal Industry and Biosecurity, School of Law, and Jinja Campus,
This continued with the swearing-in of representatives from Halls of Residence, namely Africa Hall, Complex Hall, Mary Stuart Hall, Lumumba Hall, Livingstone Hall, Mitchell Hall, Nkrumah Hall, Nsibirwa Hall, University Hall and Galloway House.
This was followed by the swearing in of the difference Union leaders, Leaders of PWDs, College Guild Councillors then Guild Ministers before Swearing in of the Vice Guild President and the Guild President
In his hand over speech, H.E. Lubega Vincent Nsamba the outgoing 90th Guild President reflected on the challenges faced while serving the student body, stating, “When one has been made to come from the back door for too long, you can deploy that when you first face any adversity.” He emphasized the importance of building harmonious relationships by creating long-lasting relationships without hurting each other which is crucial for collaborative solutions to challenges.
Nsamba quoted German theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer about the dangers of ignorance, that “there is more fear from a stupid person.” He urged the new leaders to engage with the university’s governing instruments, as outlined in Article 81 of the Guild constitution, advising them to “interact with them, get some free time and try to address your mind to the material content.”
Linking his faith to leadership, he encouraged cabinet to seek guidance from God in both successes and challenges, with a scripture, “Cast your burdens to the Lord and He will sustain you,” that he quoted from Psalms 55:2.
Reflecting on his tenure, Nsamba stated, ‘We’ve been in a position to establish a good working relationship between the management and the student leaders,’ which is vital, as student representation is limited within the university’s governance structure. He congratulated Churchill James Sentamu, wishing him triumph in his tenure.
Representating the Vice Chancellor, Professor Buyinza Mukadasi the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Affairs expressed his joy in welcoming the new student leadership, particularly Mr. Churchill Sentamu, stating, “It is a joy for me that I’m presiding over the inauguration of the new executive.” He congratulated the members of the Guild Representative Council (GRC) on their successful election and emphasized that ‘this is the time to map out your leadership journey from today going forward.’
He acknowledged the contributions of all candidates who participated in the elections, highlighting the importance of humility and respect for the democratic process.
“It is commendable that we have not had clashes during their leadership”, this he stressed in appreciation of the maturity of outgoing leadership.
While offering advice to the new leadership, he stressed the importance of dedication, humility, and compliance with university regulations.
“You are called upon to serve this university and beyond yourself, work with the principle of solidarity, a principle of dialogue, as your predecessor has done.” He noted.
Reflecting on the broader responsibilities of student leaders, reminding them, Prof Mukadasi noted “You are a student of Makerere University before you become a Guild President, a Cabinet minister therefore aim at academic excellence as the core.”
Using the powers vested in him by the Guild Constitution, he officially commissioned the new government, ‘Welcome, we look forward to receiving more of your advice to council jointly in management as we build for the future.’
At the event, Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, the Dean of Students at Makerere University expressed great pleasure, to welcome all people who attended the important occasion with special thanks to the Vice-Chancellor for his presence, emphasizing the importance of the leadership transition ceremony and the electoral process.
Kabumbuli acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing President, His Excellency Vincent Lubega Nsamba stating how they’ve witnessed remarkable progress and achievements due to his dedication to enhancing the student experience.
She congratulated the newly elected leader, Mr. Churchill James Sentamu, noting that his election is a testament to his leadership skills and encouraged him to uphold the values of inclusivity and diversity.
She urged everyone to celebrate the transition and reaffirm their commitment to a supportive campus environment emphasizing the need for collaboration and unity in creating a conducive learning environment.
As the curtains drew to a close on the inauguration ceremony, the Makerere University community looked forward to a brighter future under the leadership of H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James. With unity, resilience, and a commitment to excellence, the new student leadership vowed to tackle the challenges ahead and restore the university’s position as a beacon of academic excellence on the African continent.