Archbishop Ssemogerere warns against drug abuse in universities

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The Archbishop of the Kampala Archdiocese, Paul Ssemogerere, has issued a strong call against drug abuse in institutions of higher learning.

He made the appeal while presiding over mass at King Ceasor University in Bunga on Monday, May 5, 2025.

This was shortly before the graduation of 280 students in various diplomas and degrees. The event was graced by several dignitaries, visiting professors, and prominent leaders, including ICT and National Guidance Minister Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, and former Prime Minister Dr Ruhakana Rugunda, among others.

“I also want to congratulate you upon restraining and resisting the temptations of abuse of drugs. It is so rampant in many institutions today. Congratulations, I can see that your students here are quite sober, especially after a long weekend. Many are using drugs and are involved in many bad practices, dangerous practices and substances. But we have a few here who are quite sober and ready to serve society,” Ssemogerere remarked.

“Thank you for avoiding that temptation and never allow that vice to be in this place. Society needs you, and it needs good citizens who will be able to take it further…Thank you for not welcoming immoral and bad habits like pornography and homosexuality, and all kinds of promiscuity, which is a common practice among young people. Resist such temptations…” he added.

Quoting Pope Francis, he urged the graduands to plant seeds of justice, water them with courage, and nurture them through service, commissioning them to go forth as agents of hope.

Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere (center), on his right is Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa and his left is the chancellor H.E Ceasor Mulenga in a group photograph.

Speaking at the same function, Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa said the ball is in the youth’s court. To either succeed or succumb to despair. With discipline, he noted, not even the sky is the limit. But if they choose despair, they will have only themselves to blame.

“I am here, I am a very good example. I am now number five in the hierarchy of Government. I had no connection here to lobby for me. No one, I didn’t have any political godfather. I washed my hands, and I had to go to the Rugundas, and I said; I am here, I am clean, please support me and they supported me,” he stated. 

“Now, for you, if you go smelling alcohol and cigarettes with ear pods, bouncing with balance, dancing Hozambe (local hit song). If that is what is driving you, we also have a safe route for you going to clubs and bars; you can walk on foot at 4:00am, and you are very safe. But if you are purpose-driven, you are going to transform this country, yourselves, your families and King Ceasor University,” Tayebwa summed.