Makerere University’s College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) held a handover ceremony, Friday 14th May, 2026,to mark the transition of student leadership, bringing together outgoing guild leaders, the newly elected executive, college management, and representatives from student associations.
Outgoing leadership hands over mandate
Outgoing College Chairperson Waisenga Gideon described his one year and three weeks tenure in office as “a journey of many lessons,” highlighting achievements including securing an office for the chairperson, installing sockets across the college, introducing branded T‑shirts to raise funds, and acquiring a college bus. His team also organized activities such as Mental Health Day, safeguarding event and a sports gala.
Waisenga urged the incoming leaders to build networks and persevere through challenges. “Use the positions you hold to improve your social circles,” he said.
Outgoing Guild Representative Umar Mwanje emphasized discipline and time management, warning that academic excellence and leadership must be balanced independently. He appealed to the outgoing executive to mentor successors until they are firmly established.
Office files, financial records, and briefs on ongoing projects were formally handed over to ensure continuity.
During his term, the CGC provided leadership and coordination for various student associations;
– Makerere Engineering Society (MES)
– Makerere University Fine Art Students Association (MUFASA)
– Makerere Architecture Students Association (MASA)
– Association of Energy Engineers, Makerere Chapter (AEE)
– Makerere Architecture Students Society (MASS)
Incoming CGC cabinet sworn in
The incoming cabinet, led by Edwin Aloya, pledged to strengthen collaboration among associations, improve communication with faculty, expand industry linkages, and push for better study spaces. “Our role is to serve, not to be seen. We will listen first, act fast, and keep students informed,” Aloya said. Our role is to serve, not to be seen. We will listen first, act fast, and keep students informed at every step,” Aloya said
Chief guest Assoc. Prof. Kizito Maria Kasule, representing the Principal of CEDAT, commended the outgoing team for maintaining stability and urged the new leaders to prioritize integrity, mentorship, and accountability. “Student leadership is training for national leadership. Document your work and always put student interest first,” he advised. He reaffirmed the commitment of the college leadership in supporting student led initiatives, aligned with CEDAT’s mission in engineering, design and innovation.
Message from the Chairperson of College Chairpersons
Speaking at the event, the Chairperson of College Chairpersons said the day was “more than a formal transformation of leadership but a celebration of leadership. “It’s absurd that today being a politician has been vulgarized, and as upcoming leaders we have a duty to restore hope in this area,” he said.
He stressed that leadership requires sacrifice, humility, and openness to feedback. Congratulating the incoming leadership, he encouraged them to speak for their constituents by representing students where they cannot speak for themselves.
Looking ahead
The new executive’s first 100 days will focus on orientation for first-year students, reviving departmental associations, and setting up feedback channels between students and college management.
The ceremony concluded with the symbolic passing of the student guild gavel, the swearing‑in of the new cabinet, and a group photo of outgoing and incoming leaders.