The 21st Guild Cabinet of Kyambogo University and the top management held a highly constructive and collaborative dinner, marking a significant step in rejuvenating the relationship between the student leadership and the administration. Hosted by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Eli Katunguka, the evening focused on the critical role student leaders play as ambassadors for the university and the necessity of partnership to improve service delivery for the over 35,000 students.

In his address, Prof. Katunguka warmly encouraged the Guild leaders to work collaboratively with management, stressing that knowing the university’s procedures and processes is vital for guiding their fellow students effectively. “The university journey is an exciting one; it opens up many opportunities,” said Prof. Katunguka. He emphasized the importance of good behavior, urging the cabinet not to waste time but to focus on academic performance to graduate on time. He also noted the university’s progress, highlighting significant infrastructure development despite limited resources, and proudly stated that Kyambogo alumni are increasingly preferred in the job market, a testament to the university’s improved image. He concluded by challenging the cabinet to be good ambassadors for the institution.

The Guild President H.E Andama Emmanuel expressed gratitude, noting that the cabinet felt privileged to be among the “lucky ones” to lead the student body. Acknowledging that the past relationship between the two bodies had been “sour,” he stressed the dinner’s importance in rejuvenating this vital bond. “We believe our desires and aspirations can be addressed through a round table,” H.E Andama stated. He thanked the VC and top management for their strong leadership despite challenges. The Guild President also highlighted visible improvements, such as cleanliness, and mentioned the successful extension of the graduation clearance deadline.

He outlined a key project: addressing the lack of seating in the compound. He also proposed using the “Kyambogo Run” for social corporate responsibility, promising to ensure the run has a clear purpose so management can offer full support. H.E Andama pledged to maintain respect with authorities as the Guild executes its duties.

The VC shaking hands with the guild president.
The VC shaking hands with the guild president.

The event featured two successful alumni who offered valuable insights: Ian Kafuko, Former Guild President (2015) and current Land Valuer at the Ministry of Works and Transport, praised Prof. Katunguka for the university’s tremendous improvement and infrastructure development. To the student leaders, he advised: “Whichever step you take as leaders, will be shaped by the vision you hold.” He urged H.E Andama to lay down a clear vision and sell it to his ministers. Mr. Kafuko emphasized the need to utilize and empower committees by delegating power. He concluded his counsel by urging the cabinet to lead with honor, integrity, and teamwork and to excel in their academics, reminding them that “Leaders are like snails. Wherever you are walking, you leave behind slime.”

Penpal Kyasiimire, a Quality Controller with CBL–Pepsi and Guild Vice President (2018/2019), delivered a compelling message inspired by the story of Thurgood Marshall. She stressed that social and political skills are a craft that must be learned and mastered. Drawing from Marshall’s journey of learning the inner rules and power dynamics of the justice system, she told the cabinet, “In your early stages of growth, you may need to mute your colors, study the environment, and understand how systems work.” She firmly advised against violence or confrontation, stating that civilized discussion and engagement yield much better results. “Learn the systems. Learn the proper channels of communication, practice patience, discipline, and learn.” Her final charge to the cabinet was to make the most of their time, develop themselves, and ensure they graduate on time, as that is their primary goal.

Assoc. Prof. Justus Kwetegyeka, Deputy Vice Chancellor F&A, urged leaders to “Protect the gains” made by the university. He emphasized using the right procedure and sharing the right information, stressing that the leaders’ future starts now.

Dr. Agnes Mugalu, Deputy Dean of Students, offered a simple but powerful plea: “Keep respectful.”

The evening successfully set a positive tone for the 21st Guild Cabinet, replacing past hostilities with a shared understanding that collaboration and adherence to proper procedures are the keys to advancing the welfare of Kyambogo University’s students.

 

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