Bishop Stuart University students rekindle human rights activism
This student-led initiative aims to raise awareness among students about their rights and empower them to advocate for human rights in the communities.
Dr Livingstone Ssewanyana, the Foundation for Human Rights Initiative (FHRI) chief executive officer, commended the rebirth of the Human Rights Club as a pivotal moment for the university. (Photos Bruno Mugizi)
By Bruno Mugizi
Journalists @New Vision
________________
Students at Bishop Stuart University in Mbarara City have revived the Human Rights Club, aiming to promote equal rights, justice, human dignity, and community awareness within the university.
This student-led initiative aims to raise awareness among students about their rights and empower them to advocate for human rights in the communities.
According to the club's president, Orishaba Alleluyah, the revitalised Bishop Stuart University Human Rights Club is partnering with the Foundation for Human Rights Initiative (FHRI) to equip students with knowledge, skills, and advocacy tools.
"We decided to expand it to the entire university to incubate more knowledge, provide new skills, and create advocacy strategies so that students can educate others about their rights," Orishaba said.
Orishaba revealed that the club has been instrumental in raising awareness about human rights issues in the university through various events, workshops, and campaigns.
Dr Livingstone Ssewanyana, the Foundation for Human Rights Initiative (FHRI) chief executive officer interact with BSU students after the Club's rebirth.
"The club has provided a platform for students to engage in discussions, debates, and reflections on human rights-related topics," she revealed.Dr Livingstone Ssewanyana, the Foundation for Human Rights Initiative (FHRI) chief executive officer, commended the rebirth of the Human Rights Club as a pivotal moment for the university.
He emphasised the importance of such platforms for nurturing good future leaders and developing alternative ideas.
Professor Gershom Atukunda, the Director of the Directorate of Graduate Studies, Research and Innovations at Bishop Stuart University, said the Human Rights Club would play a pivotal role in enhancing students' research skills and deepening their understanding of human rights issues through research-focused projects.
He noted that the club would provide students with hands-on experience in exploring complex human rights topics, analysing data, and developing well-informed arguments.
Speaking during the event, SSP Norman Kukunda, the Rwizi Region Police Legal Officer, highlighted the need for a nuanced understanding of human rights in the post-COVID era.
He emphasised that the pandemic had exposed existing social and economic inequalities and that it was essential to prioritise human rights in the recovery efforts.