Makerere University Guild President, Mr. Robert Maseruka, launched the “Save a Makererean” campaign on October 10, 2023, with the objective of addressing the issue of students who are unable to continue their education due to financial constraints.
During the campaign’s unveiling, Mr. Maseruka emphasized that approximately 1,000 students drop out of Makerere University each year due to their inability to secure the necessary tuition fees and other essential resources. He further highlighted that about 3,000 students were unable to sit for their exams in the previous semester for similar financial reasons.
The “Save a Makererean” campaign aims to offer support to students who are struggling to cover their tuition expenses. To achieve this, the campaign will organize various activities, including car washes, student walks, breakfast meetings, and dinners. These events will be attended by diverse stakeholders, such as civil society organizations, companies, Members of Parliament, cabinet ministers, religious leaders, and alumni, all united in their commitment to addressing this issue.
Mr. Maseruka urged the people of Uganda to come together and assist Makerere University students, setting a fundraising target of Shs1 billion. This substantial sum is expected to alleviate the tuition burden for a significant number of students.
Mariat Namiiro, the Vice Guild President, expressed concerns about the impact of tuition difficulties on students’ lives. She noted that some female students are forced to consider prostitution, while male students may turn to older women for financial support. The campaign’s aim is to provide these students with opportunities to fulfill their educational aspirations without resorting to such measures.
The university’s academic registrar, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, welcomed the campaign as long as it adheres to the university’s established structures. He emphasized the need for control and balance mechanisms to prevent misuse of the funds. Prof. Buyinza also clarified that the university’s policy allows the vice chancellor to grant special permission for students who are unable to take exams due to financial constraints or valid reasons.
Additionally, the university council has approved a scheme known as the “student work employment scheme.” This initiative is designed to assist economically disadvantaged students in raising their tuition fees by offering them employment opportunities within the university. Students can apply for such opportunities through their respective deans, and once approved, the earned income will be directed towards their fees.
