By Victor Turinawe
Uganda Christian University (UCU) staff and leaders at the Mukono Campus have cautioned first-year students to focus on pursuing their education and maintaining safety while at the university.
The team, led by the Director of Academic Affairs, Prof. Angella Napakol, delivered the message during a one-day orientation programme for the students of the May 2026 intake. The event was held at Nkoyoyo Hall on the campus premises.
In her address, Prof. Napakol emphasised that attending classes at UCU is mandatory, noting that it is especially crucial during the examination period. She informed students that to qualify to sit for examinations, one must have attended at least 75% of the lectures throughout the semester.
“At UCU, we conduct continuous assessments which account for 60% and exams 40%. This will also save you from cases related to sexual exploitation, where some students and lecturers might want to use it as compensation for marks not worked for in class, though such cases are not common at UCU,” she advised.
Prof. Napakol further advised students to engage in healthy relationships. “If you cannot avoid relationships and find yourself in one, let some of your friends know about it. It is a safety precaution for accountability, but abstain from sexual engagements,” she added.
Florence Birungi, UCU’s Female Custodian, encouraged students to avoid peer influence, warning that some men from neighbouring communities target students in a bid to exploit them.
“They want to take advantage of your innocence and exploit you… so always choose with your heart,” said Birungi.
Speaking about safety, the Head of Security, Jonathan Kainamura, reminded students to always lock their wardrobes and rooms and not to bring external visitors into halls of residence, noting that such individuals may have harmful intentions.
Eseeri Kusiima, the Officer in Charge (OC) of UCU Police Station also called for vigilance and awareness among students regarding their movements for their own safety. She emphasised that while the Police are responsible for citizens’ security, safety is both a collective and personal responsibility.
