MUK students protest restructuring degree programmes

A section of Makerere University students under the College of Humanities and Social studies are protesting the University's move to phase out Development studies degree programme.

The angry students stormed the Principal of college of Humanities and Social sciences Prof. Edward Kirumira who was attending a one-day conference on water and society (WASO) at the Senate building and demanded that he explains why the university is phasing out the programme.

According to the students, the university did not inform them about the move, but they had read about it in one of the local newspapers.

Makerere university students for Development Studies listening to Prof. Edward Kirumira after them demonstrating against the decision for the removal of their course at the University on 21/03/2015. Photo by Godiver Asege

Kirumira said although the University is in the process of restructuring its programmes he will defend the relevance of all the programs under his college.

He confirmed that at in the College of humanities and social sciences there are three programs where they have not reached a consensus. These include Development studies, performing Art and film and Education psychology.

He however warned that, the issue of academic program restructuring should not be personalized.

Makerere university students for Development Studies demonstrating against the decision for the removal of their course at the University on 21/03/2015. Photo by Godiver Asege

He added that some people at the university have started personalizing the process and inciting the students for personal reasons.

'We are not going to defend these positions.  As a principal, I will defend the relevance of all the programs under my college. If we came up with a position in the college academic board that is the position I am obligated to defend, 'he noted.