CoNAS Student Leaders Inducted, Urged to Uphold Integrity

The Dean, School of Biosciences at the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University, Prof. Arthur Tugume, has urged student leaders to embody integrity, accountability, and responsibility in their roles.

Speaking at the induction ceremony held on 26^th September 2025, at the college premises, Prof. Tugume urged the student leaders to be faithful stewards of their roles, stressing the importance of taking responsibility not only for their own actions but also for the welfare of those they represent. “Africa’s challenges are not due to lack of resources, but rather governance. I hope you will truly value the roles entrusted to you and carry them out diligently. It is through the small responsibilities we carry in our families and communities that the seeds of effective leadership are sown,” he explained.

Accountability and responsibility

Prof. Tugume emphasized the importance of accountability in leadership, noting that true leaders take responsibility when challenges arise. “Leadership is not about blame. It is about accountability. When things go wrong under your leadership, do not look for someone to blame. Take responsibility. Learn from it. That is what makes great leaders.”

Leadership rooted in character

He highlighted the integral role of character in leadership, cautioning against manipulative behaviour that can erode trust and collaboration. He urged the student leaders to foster open dialogue, consultation, and inclusion. “You cannot separate your character from your leadership. If you are manipulative, you will lead manipulatively. Good leadership requires integrity, humility, and the willingness to listen to others.”

Leadership as a lifelong learning process

Prof. Tugume reminded the students that leadership is a lifelong learning process, not a destination, and cautioned them against arrogance and the illusion of self-sufficiency. “You don’t know everything. Leadership is not about having all the answers, but about harnessing the strengths, talents, and views of others. Your ability to coordinate and mobilize people from diverse backgrounds will be your greatest strength.”

Honesty and growing into leadership

He stressed the importance of starting small and thinking big, urging the leaders to prove themselves in smaller roles before pursuing higher positions. Drawing from local governance examples, he explained that no one becomes a good LC5 Chairman without first serving at the LC1 level. “Be faithful with the little you have been entrusted with. If you cannot be a good class coordinator, you cannot expect to be a guild president. Leadership is built step by step.”

Generational challenges require generational solutions

In his closing remarks, Prof. Tugume acknowledged the evolving nature of leadership. He urged student leaders to draw wisdom from past generations while crafting innovative solutions to address the current challenges. “You live in a world that is profoundly different from ours. Your challenges are different, and so must your solutions be.”

Guidance from the Patron

Prof. Michael Owor, Dean of the School of Physical Sciences and Patron of the CoNAS Students’ Guild, emphasized the need for leaders to understand the university regulations to effectively serve the student body. “The University has regulations, and you need to understand them. Know your mandate and the limits of your authority,” he advised. Prof. Owor underscored the value of accountability, urging the leaders to proactively develop initiatives that address the concerns of students. Additionally, he highlighted teamwork and delegation as essential components of effective leadership.

Remarks by the current and former student leaders

In his remarks, Hon. Muhwezi James, the Chairperson of the CoNAS Guild Council, pledged his unwavering commitment to serve the student body with integrity, transparency, and dedication. He emphasized his readiness to represent students’ interests, foster inclusive dialogue, and work collaboratively with all stakeholders to enhance the academic and social environment of the college.

Hon. Nkurunziza Precious, former Makerere University Guild Leader, reminded the students to practice emotional intelligence, truthfulness, and passion in their service. “Do good to people and all will be well for you.”  

Mr. Gaado Joseph, 51st President of the Makerere University Chemical Society, urged the leaders to be honest and selfless, while Mr. Tushabomwe Davis, former Guild Leader and Co-founder of the Makerere University Petroleum and Geology Society, called for servant leadership, rooted in humility and a genuine commitment to uplift others. He emphasized that true leadership transcends titles.

Sensitization on the safeguarding policy

The induction ceremony also featured a session on the Makerere University Safeguarding Policy, highlighting the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment for all students. Discussions emphasized protecting vulnerable students, promoting mental health, and fostering respectful dialogue within student governance.

The event was attended by student representatives from CoNAS and other colleges at the University.

The CoNAS student leadership

1. Hon. Muhwezi James – Chairperson, College Guild Council

2. Hon. Nakato Sumayah Namuwaya (School of Biosciences) – Vice Chairperson  

3. Hon. Lukyamuzi Rafael (School of Physical Sciences) – Speaker

4. Hon. Kalwanyi Richard (School of Biosciences) – Project Coordinator

5. Hon. Ampaire Yvonne (School of Biosciences) – General Secretary

6. Hon. Ailigat Mary Hope (School of Physical Sciences) – Finance Minister

7. Hon. Wasswa Abdallah Ntale (School of Biosciences) – Academic Minister

8. Hon. Nakibuuka Daphine (School of Physical Sciences) – Women Affairs Minister

9. Hon. Ssewankambo Silas (School of Biosciences) – Publicity Secretary

10. Hon. Kasango David (School of Biosciences) – Sports and Entertainment Advisor

11. Hon. Nabubolo Syrus (School of Physical Sciences) – Health Enforcement