Makerere University’s 91st Guild President Ssentamu sworn in

KAMPALA - James Churchill Ssentamu, the newly elected 91st Guild President of Makerere University, was officially sworn in on Friday, March 21, 2025, alongside his cabinet and members of the Guild Representative Council. 

The ceremony, held at the university’s Main Hall, was attended by faculty, students, and the families of the incoming leaders.

Ssentamu, a second-year student pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, won the highly contested election as an independent candidate. 

Sentamu of National Unity Platform (NUP), triumphed in a three-way race, narrowly defeating NRM candidate John Bosco Rukundo, who placed second, while Basalirwa secured third place.

Ssentamu, son of Fred Nyanzi, NUP’s Head of Mobilization pledged to work towards improving both the academic and political environment at Makerere.

Reflecting on the race, he humorously recalled that some of his peers believed he was better suited as a timekeeper than a guild president.

He expressed his commitment to ensuring the university’s voice continues to be heard globally while maintaining Makerere’s prestigious international recognition.

Guild Council representatives and guild cabinet ministers are being sworn in as Makerere University’s 91st guild leaders. (Credit: John Odyek)

Outgoing Guild President Vincent Lubega spoke about the valuable lessons learned during his tenure. Lubega highlighted the importance of respecting diverse opinions and emphasized that solutions could be found through dialogue, fostering a peaceful environment at Makerere.

Lubega encouraged students to turn to God in times of adversity and urged them to face challenges with resilience, especially as many students encounter personal difficulties.

Dr. Winifred Namuwonge Kabumbuli, Makerere’s dean of students, welcomed the new leadership and expressed gratitude to the outgoing team for their contributions.

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Makerere’s acting deputy vice chancellor in charge of academic affairs, congratulated both the outgoing and incoming guild leadership.
 
He praised the Electoral Commission for its diligent work throughout the election process. In his address, Prof. Mukadasi urged the new guild leadership to familiarize themselves with the university’s policies and regulations, stressing the importance of promoting student awareness to ensure campus harmony.

"Nothing will give you joy like serving in harmony," Prof. Mukadasi said. "Work with the principles of dialogue, congeniality, and consensus-building, and you will be successful. We are committed to working with you, but remember, you are students first, so focus on your studies."

He reminded the guild leaders of the ethical responsibility they bear while managing public resources, noting that public offices are held in trust for the benefit of the wider community.

The ceremony concluded with the official commissioning of the new guild leadership, marking the beginning of their term at the helm of one of Uganda’s most prestigious universities.