(Kampala) – At the inaugural commemoration of the International Day for Persons with Disabilities, Makerere University’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, called on the Ugandan government to increase support for students with disabilities by expanding the number of government-sponsored spots available to them.
Prof. Nawangwe’s remarks came during an event at Makerere University on November 13, 2024, where he emphasized the need for greater inclusivity in education and employment for persons with disabilities.
The event, held in the Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, was organized by the Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students’ Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities, marking a significant moment in recognizing the rights and needs of disabled individuals in Uganda.
In his address, Prof. Nawangwe urged the government to prioritize students with disabilities by ensuring they are among the first to be admitted to government-sponsored positions in higher education. He noted that, as the numbers of students with disabilities are still relatively low, these students should be given priority.
“Students with disabilities should be the first to be admitted on government sponsorship because there are not so many,” Prof. Nawangwe said, advocating for increased inclusivity in higher education.
Prof. Nawangwe also called on the government to establish clear policies to ensure that students with disabilities are integrated into the workforce upon graduation, creating pathways for their long-term success.
Highlighting Makerere University’s own efforts, Prof. Nawangwe pointed out that the university has established a Disability Support Centre, which serves as a hub to provide students and staff with disabilities access to necessary support, promote inclusion, and ensure equal opportunities in education.
“Over the years, Makerere University has branded itself as a place that actively and loudly promotes increased awareness about the rights and needs of students and staff with disabilities,” said Prof. Nawangwe, showcasing the university’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment.
The event also featured remarks from the Chief Guest, Hon. Hellen Grace Asamo, the State Minister for Disability Affairs. Hon. Asamo encouraged persons with disabilities to believe in their potential and overcome any feelings of inferiority.
“You have to show people that you have the potential, and when people get to know your potential, they will begin to include and engage you,” she stated. “But if you do not have your potential, nobody will include you. They will think you are just someone who is just there seated and begging.”
Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, the Dean of Students at Makerere University, highlighted the institution’s ongoing efforts to integrate inclusive policies and practices. Makerere has implemented several policies to protect the rights of students and staff with disabilities, including the Policy for Persons with Disabilities, the Accommodation Policy, and a special minister for persons with disabilities within the student guild to ensure their voices are heard.
“We are proud to accept and celebrate our differences and uniqueness. We welcome you here to build a culture of active support for each other,” Dr. Kabumbuli said during her remarks.
The university has also prioritized physical accessibility, with designated accessible hostels, ramps, elevators, and pathways to ensure all students can navigate the campus with ease. Additionally, the university provides accommodation, meals, and salaries for assistants who support students with disabilities.
Dr. Kabumbuli also spoke about Makerere’s drive to provide students with the necessary assistive devices, such as wheelchairs, white canes, and hearing aids. The university has even dedicated a space within its library, equipped with assistive technologies, to ensure equal access to academic resources.
Furthermore, special arrangements are in place for students with disabilities during examinations, including extra time to ensure they can demonstrate their full academic potential.
The university’s efforts to support students with disabilities have been bolstered by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, the Ministry of Gender, and the School of Law, all of which continue to champion diversity and inclusion.
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is a global event, observed annually on December 3rd, that seeks to raise awareness about the challenges faced by persons with disabilities and encourage the development of more inclusive environments.
