By Julius Mugaga Tukacungurwa, Umoja Standard.
Kampala, Uganda: Makerere University has significantly upgraded its internal transportation capabilities, acquiring three modern buses from the government-owned Kiira Motors Corporation. This strategic procurement not only modernizes the university’s fleet but also includes a specialized electric bus, specifically designated to enhance the mobility and accessibility for students and staff with special needs across campus. The initiative underscores Makerere’s ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment for its entire community.
The new additions to Makerere’s transport infrastructure comprise two diesel-powered buses alongside the innovative electric model. The introduction of the electric bus, tailored for individuals with disabilities, marks a pivotal step in addressing specific mobility challenges, ensuring greater ease of movement and participation within the university’s expansive grounds. This move further strengthens Makerere’s collaborative framework with Kiira Motors, reinforcing a national partnership aimed at technological advancement and local industry support.
Makerere University Vice-Chancellor Professor Barnabas Nawangwe characterizes this acquisition as a direct manifestation of the institution’s core principles. He contends that the new vehicles directly reflect a profound dedication to “the core values of inclusivity, equity, and care for all members of the university community.” Nawangwe’s assessment positions this investment as a critical element in Makerere’s active pursuit of a more equitable and supportive environment for its diverse population. The provision of a dedicated electric bus for special needs users, in particular, serves as a prime example of this fundamental principle in action, establishing a new benchmark for campus accessibility. The integrated approach of this partnership addresses immediate logistical needs while propelling the university’s mission of comprehensive welfare.
