Kyambogo University grounds transformed into a hub of advocacy and reflection as the institution hosted its annual Gender Mainstreaming event to commemorate International Women’s Day. Under the theme “Rights, Justice, Action for all Women and Girls,” speakers called for a transition from “paper policies” to “tangible implementation,” highlighting that while strides have been made in female enrollment, the “glass ceiling” in top management remains a formidable challenge.
The 21st Guild President, H.E. Andama Emmanuel, opened the session with heartfelt appreciation for the men in attendance, noting that gender equality is a collective journey. Describing women as the “backbone of society,” he lauded the university’s deliberate efforts to involve students in STEM initiatives.
However, the Guild President did not shy away from the harsh realities facing female students. Drawing from his leadership experience, he highlighted the prevalence of; Unwanted pregnancies, Sexual harassment, AND Emotional distress (heartbreaks)
“To the students of Nabisunsa and Kyambogo College here today: stand out and speak. Defend your basic rights,” H.E. Andama urged. He also made a poignant call for the empowerment of the “boy child,” noting that sustainable families require both genders to be equally prepared for the future.
Dr. Deborah Nakalyowa-Luggya, Head of the Gender Mainstreaming Unit, welcomed guests by aligning the day’s goals with Sustainable Development Goals 5 (Gender Equality) and 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).
While she celebrated the upcoming commissioning of a social welfare room for lactating mothers and increased female admissions in STEM, she pointed out the “gender gaps” in deanship and top management. “We must address the ‘sticky floors’ that prevent female staff from rising,” she stated, advocating for targeted sponsorships and inclusion at the School of Built Environment (SOBE).
The Guest Speaker, Counsel Norah Matovu, delivered a sobering reminder of the stakes involved. She led the house in a moment of silence for a woman recently murdered by her husband over a matrimonial home loan dispute a tragic example of justice failing at the domestic level.
Tracing the legal journey from the 1995 Constitution to the International Bureau of Rights, Counsel Matovu emphasized: Accountability: Laws must ensure offenders are punished and victims have access to justice. Publicity: For the law to work, people must know their rights. Reform: She highlighted the amendment of the Divorce Act, which now ensures both parties require similar grounds for petitioning.
The commemoration was enriched by the youth voice, featuring a moving poem titled “If Walls Could Speak” by Nabisunsa Girls’ School, followed by a powerful presentation from Kyambogo College School, both echoing the need for safety and dignity.
In a powerful keynote address, Dr. Prosperous Nakyindu Kavuma challenged the audience to look beyond academic transcripts. Reflecting on her university days in the late 90s, she lamented that today’s lecture rooms are often empty of the “life-skill conversations” that shape future leaders and parents. “Even wealthy professors and highly educated women face serious life challenges. Schooling alone is not enough,” Dr. Kavuma warned.
She specifically called for a running sexual harassment policy at Kyambogo University, noting how power is frequently misused against girls and junior staff. Supporting the Guild President’s earlier sentiments, she pledged her support for an upcoming “boys-focused” event.
Dr. Kavuma concluded by urging the university to move “beyond commemoration to tangible change,” emphasizing that empowered women build resilient economies and more peaceful environments.
As the 2026 commemoration ended, the message was clear: Kyambogo University aims to be the “spark” that turns gender justice from a classroom theory into a lived reality for every student and staff member.
Tags: Domestic Violence Awareness, Gender Justice, Kyambogo University, Legal Reform Uganda, Sexual Harassment Policy, Women Empowerment Uganda