MAKERERE- The Director of Makerere University Gender and Mainstreaming, Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine has urged the new students to openly defy the sexual harassment vice and stand strong for their academic rights.
This was during the Makerere Freshmen’s Orientation Meeting held on Monday August 6.
Speaking to thousands of freshmen at the Freedom Square, Dr. Mugisha encouraged students to acquaint themselves with the University policy and regulations against sexual harassment.
“The policy clearly defines sexual harassment and provides its various forms. It provides details on whom you should contact and where to go in case you are harassed,” Dr Mugisha said.
She encouraged new students to let someone know right away in case a person is engaging them in actions that they don’t feel comfortable with.
“The university appointed the Sexual Harassment Committee, some of the members are placed at the respective colleges, don’t hesitate to contact them,” she said.
Makerere organizes the students’ orientation meeting, at the beginning of each academic year, which presents an opportunity to the university administration to interact with new students.
Students are given a comprehensive package that appeals to their academic and social wellbeing. The university also provides relevant information and knowledge crucial to students stay at the campus.
Mr. Alfred Namoah Masikye, the University Academic Registrar congratulated the freshmen upon joining Uganda’s oldest institution of higher learning.
He urged students to immensely engage in the university academic activities and develop life-long passion for learning.
According to the Academic Registrar, developing a culture of studying, consultation as well as engaging in the academic activities of the university will not only enable the students achieve their academic goals but also provide a platform to attain good grades.
“You have the best professors and lecturers please use them. At Makerere University, we commit ourselves to upholding the values we cherish as an academic institution, and to fostering an atmosphere that is respectful, supportive and welcoming to all. The diversity of our backgrounds, talents and perspectives will continue to enrich us all as we live and learn together,” he said.
The Dean of Students Mr. Cyriaco Kabagambe encouraged the new entrants to read, understand and strictly follow the rules and regulations governing the institution.
“We have rules and regulations you must observe. These regulations apply to all students of Makerere University,” he said.
The academic year has started at a time when the university image is tainted over cases of sexual harassment and unending strikes.
Prof Barnabas Nawangwe, the Makerere Vice Chancellor on Monday August 6, suspended three students for allegedly engaging in acts of violence at the university and causing damage to university property.
