New students joining Makerere University’s College of Education and External Studies (CEES) have been urged to prioritise academic discipline, seek available support services and make responsible choices throughout their university journey.
The call was made during the 2026 CEES Freshers’ Orientation held at the Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium on Thursday, where first-year students were introduced to university regulations, academic expectations and support systems available to them.
The Principal of CEES, Prof. Anthony M. Mugagga, congratulated the students upon joining Makerere University and encouraged them to remain focused on their studies.
“Attend lectures consistently, be punctual, plan your schedules ahead of time and choose your peers wisely,” Prof. Mugagga told the freshers.
He urged students to approach their university experience with commitment and purpose, saying success requires deliberate planning and discipline.
The Deputy Principal of CEES, Prof. Ronald Bisaso, welcomed the new students and advised them to keep their academic goals in focus.
“Start with graduation in mind,” Prof. Bisaso said, encouraging students to fulfil all academic requirements necessary for successful completion of their programmes.
The Dean of the School of Distance and Lifelong Learning, Dr Harriet Nabushawo, highlighted Makerere’s academic support systems and asked students to set clear goals, embrace independent learning and uphold academic integrity.
The Dean of the School of Education, Assoc. Prof. Mathias B. Mulumba, advised students to make use of student leaders and university staff whenever they require academic or social support.
“To succeed at Makerere, consult student leaders and staff on academics and social support systems, embrace group learning and read consistently,” Prof. Mulumba said.
The Manager of Makerere University’s Counselling and Guidance Centre, Mr Henry Nsubuga, encouraged students experiencing mental health challenges to seek professional support.
He urged students to utilise counselling services and prioritise their wellbeing during their academic journey.
Dr Godfrey Mayende, Deputy Director of the Institute of Open, Distance and eLearning (IoDEL), challenged students to use Artificial Intelligence responsibly in their studies.
“Use Artificial Intelligence wisely. AI should not corrupt your personal knowledge. AI shouldn’t replace human thinking,” Dr Mayende said.
The College Registrar, Mrs Joanna Kayaga Kiwana, sensitised students on key academic policies and regulations that will guide their stay at Makerere University.
She encouraged them to familiarise themselves with university procedures and requirements.
The CEES Bursar, Mr Stephen Kayima, advised students to protect their finances by following official payment procedures.
“Make all Makerere tuition payments through designated bank channels to safeguard your funds. Follow official payment procedures,” Mr Kayima urged.
The orientation also focused on student safety and safeguarding. Dr Michael Walimbwa, the staff safeguarding champion, together with student safeguarding champions, sensitised students on the importance of creating a safe university environment.
“It’s about protecting members of the Makerere community from harassment, neglect and any behaviour that threatens safety,” Dr Walimbwa said.
The session was moderated by Public Relations and Communication Specialist Ms Ritah Namisango, who encouraged students to balance academics with co-curricular activities.
“During your stay, tap into the enormous opportunities and networks at Makerere,” Ms Namisango told the students.
Makerere University Guild Minister for Academic Affairs, Neena Elsie Kalazani, also joined the orientation and welcomed the freshers to what she described as the “Hill of Endless Opportunities,” encouraging them to make the most of their university experience.
The event was organised to prepare the new students for academic life at one of Uganda’s oldest institutions of higher learning, while equipping them with knowledge on university expectations, available services and responsible campus living.
