New student leaders sworn-in

The college of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology on Friday May 21, 2021 witnessed the handover and swearing in of new student leaders of the various associations at the college.

The college has 6 associations each with a president and a cabinet.

The associations include Makerere Engineering Society (MES), Makerere Association of Construction Management (MAC), Makerere University Fine Art Students Association (MUFASA), Makerere University Association of Surveying Students, Makerere University Planners Association, Makerere Architecture Student Association ……………..

Incoming MES cabinet swears in in front of their peers

The handover was witnessed by the Principal, Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, the dean of the School of the Built Environment, Prof. Moses Musinguzi, Dr. Eng. Anthony Rucukye, who represented the patron of MES, the Deputy Principal, Dr. Venny Nakazibwe, the Principal Communication Officer, Ms Betty Kyakuwa and the Web Administrator, Mr Mark Rujumba as well as parents of the new student leaders.

In his remarks, Prof. Alinaitwe thanked the out-going leadership for working with the college to improve student welfare and also organize academic events. He called on the new leaders to keep the good relationship that management has with the student community. He asked them to always raise their grievances with the relevant offices before reporting to the Vice Chancellor. “Always follow the right channels of reporting,” he urged them.

Dr. Rucukye, who represented Dr Dorothy Okello shared with the new leaders the purpose for which MES was started.

  1. To create a medium of communication between the staff and students
  2. To create a worthy relationship between students and industry – facilitate industrial placement for students
  3. To get in touch with practicing engineers in the field to help students broaden their technical skills through seminars and workshops providing free mentorship programs.
  4. Create, encourage and perpetuate a sense and spirit of togetherness among students
  5. To protect and defend engineering students’ interests, rights and freedoms
  6. To instill a sense of discipline, appreciation, love and pride for engineering profession.
  7. To help recommend students to different institutions for scholarships, training, mentorship and employment.

He challenged the new leadership to align their objectives and campaign promises with the objectives of MES.

Dr. Rucukye called on the leaders to balance leadership and academics. “It is possible to excel at both. Plan for it effectively, knowing the primary reason for you being at University is academics,” he emphasized.

Dr. Rucukye who formerly served as the MES presidents in 2006 shared with the students that his grades were the best when he was a student leader. He went on to graduate top of his class.

He reminded the new leaders that to lead is to influence and not to exert authority. Story by Betty Kyakuwa