Very soon our university will be witnessing a Guild leadership handover. When it happens, it will be the 27th function of its kind. I have been serving with the outgoing team as MP School of Journalism, and Minister of Information. As such, I have the burden to share a few notes with the 27th Guild leadership to help them serve the university better. I seek to give this advice because I, my colleagues, and those who served before us hold a unique position since we have completed the same journey you are about to begin. We have knowledge to share both from the things we did right and from the mistakes we made. 

The student leadership elections at Uganda Christian University (UCU) are a unique process and have become a model that other institutions are starting to emulate. One of the defining features of UCU’s elections is the absence of political parties. This allows candidates to focus on issues within the university rather than being swayed by external influences.

How attentive are we to the well-being of those around us? Do we notice subtle changes in behavior that might indicate someone is struggling? More importantly, do you create an environment where individuals feel safe to confide in you when they encounter inevitable life challenges?

Birungi’s government has been criticised for being inaccessible. Even though open days are held, student turnout is low. In  today’s digital age, effective communication is crucial; yet students have reported being allegedly blocked from the guild president’s social media accounts. I have suffered this fate too. 

“Before I came to UCU, I had this image that it was a strict school with tight rules and regulations. My friends even said it was more like boarding school, but I didn’t mind. Deep down, I loved everything about UCU because I wanted to come out as a well-rounded lady—someone of value and substance to society—and I knew I could find that at UCU.

Life beyond the university walls can be exciting, but it will also present new difficulties. In the professional realm, the stakes are often higher. You will face competition, expectations, and the pressures of navigating your career path. The transition will not be easy.