Ms Gracious Kadondi was on Wednesday afternoon sworn in as the 92nd Guild President of Makerere University in a ceremony attended by students, university staff, and outgoing student leaders.
The event, presided over by the Dean of Students, Dr Winifred Namuwonge Kabumbuli, was held in the Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University.
Kadondi, who subscribes to the National Unity Platform (NUP), takes over leadership of the Makerere University Students’ Guild after winning a tightly contested race against 13 candidates, securing 6,801 votes. Independent candidate Hannah Karema finished second with 5,787 votes.
“Student welfare will be my priority”
In her inaugural address, Kadondi said the victory marked a turning point for student leadership at Makerere. She thanked her supporters for sustaining her campaign through what she described as a demanding journey.
Kadondi also thanked the wider student body for what she called a strong mandate. “Over 6,800 students entrusted us with this mandate. I have not witnessed such support in my leadership journey, and I am truly grateful,” she said.
She described her victory as more than a personal achievement, calling it a symbolic moment for the institution. “What we are witnessing today may seem like a small step, but it is a giant leap for Makerere University and its students—who have long desired transformative leadership,” she said.
Kadondi urged students and candidates to move beyond electoral divisions and embrace unity. “I also extend my appreciation to my fellow contestants. You demonstrated resilience and courage,” she said, adding that the election period had ended and it was time to work together.
“Now that the election is over, it is time to unite. We must move beyond divisions and rebuild our collective strength,” she said.
She further called on student leaders to prioritise service and inclusivity. “Leadership is not about standing alone. It is about bringing others along. As you rise, empower others. Build leaders. Leave a legacy that inspires future generations,” Kadondi said.
She outlined three key priorities that guided her campaign—student welfare, academic excellence, and political participation—saying they would remain central during her tenure.
“These must remain our guiding principles in service,” she said. “As we lead, we must constantly ask ourselves: how are we improving student welfare? How are we strengthening academics? How are we amplifying student voices?”
“You must serve all students equally”
Delivering remarks during the ceremony, Dean of Students Dr Winifred Namuwonge Kabumbuli congratulated the new leadership and emphasised the importance of inclusive governance. “To the incoming Guild leadership, congratulations. You now carry the responsibility of representing the student body,” she said.
She reminded the new leaders that their mandate extends to all students regardless of background or political alignment. “The Guild represents all students. We cannot serve selectively. Every student deserves fairness, equality, and representation,” Dr Kabumbuli said.
She also praised the Electoral Commission for managing a peaceful process. “Despite the usual challenges that accompany elections, you ensured that the will of the students was upheld,” she said.
Dr Kabumbuli urged the new leadership to prioritise accessibility, accountability, and openness. “Students should not need appointments to be heard. Transparency builds trust. Leadership thrives where consultation and inclusivity are embraced,” she said.
Outgoing leadership reflects on service
The outgoing Guild President, Ssentamu Churchill James, described his tenure as a period of growth and responsibility, thanking students and the university community for their support.
“Today marks the end of my tenure as Guild President. I stand before you with deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve,” he said. He added: “Leadership is about responsibility—often involving difficult decisions, tough conversations, and consistency even when no one is watching.”
Churchill urged the incoming leadership to prioritise integrity and accountability. “The office you now hold demands more than visibility—it demands discipline, integrity, and responsibility,” he said.
He also called on students to remain engaged and critical in holding leaders accountable. “Leadership is not a performance—it is service. Ask questions, evaluate actions, and hold your leaders accountable,” he said.