There is a popular Latin phrase that I wish to invoke here for purposes of illustrating the mind of a scholar: “De minimis non curat lex”, the law does not concern itself with trifles. Scholars, in many instances, rise above petty discussions. Conversely, they may even study seemingly trivial matters, but instead of being bogged down by them, they provide diagnosis and deeper insight.
Scholars focus on evidence-based arguments rather than mere opinion. The leading scientific thinker Karl Pearson is reputed to have said, “There is no shortcut to the truth; no way to gain knowledge of the world except through the gateway of scientific research.” Anyone clamouring for scholarly status must therefore engage in critical and systematic thinking, driven by deep curiosity to advance human knowledge.
Recall how Isaac Newton was intellectually stirred when he observed an apple falling from a tree. He questioned why it did not fall upwards, leading to his famous theory of gravity. That is the nature of scholarly inquiry, probing beyond the obvious.
Scholars employ both inductive and deductive reasoning in addressing issues at hand in order to form well-grounded opinions. In one university in South Africa, for example, there exists a modern research centre with creative spaces designed specifically for intellectual engagement. In such environments, scholars read, research, publish, and postulate solutions to emerging global challenges. A scholar who does not engage in research aimed at solving persistent community problems is hardly worthy of the label. Just as Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt, a scholar must confront societal problems with intellectual courage and well-considered solutions.
Ugandan scholars may need their own protected space to think for society. Too often, serious intellectual discourse is drowned out by cheap and weak WhatsApp debates, full of half-baked academic posturing disguised as erudition, thereby usurping intellectual space meant for genuine scholarship.
The late Prof. Apolo Nsibambi, popularly nicknamed “Lugubrious,” once defined an intellectual as someone fascinated by knowledge — though, admittedly, this definition may not be exhaustive.
Another notable example is Prof. Mondo Kagonyera of Makerere University, who once served as its Chancellor. When he ventured into politics in Rukungiri District as a prospective Member of Parliament for Rubabo County, a voter publicly confronted him and called him “Urimushema” — a Runyankole expression meaning “you are foolish.” Such incidents illustrate why scholars may require protected intellectual space. Although the remark angered him, he exercised the mental restraint expected of an intellectual.
About 25 years ago, while I was an undergraduate student at Makerere University, our psychology professor, Jethro Opolot — who had participated in the development of several psychological theories — once humorously remarked that upon returning to Uganda, he lost the refined command of English he had acquired in European universities. Intellectual space, therefore, must be guarded with sincerity and seriousness.
There is often confusion between the terms “scholar” and “academician.” Though sometimes used interchangeably, they are not necessarily synonymous. Scholars are individuals devoted to intense study, intellectual inquiry, and the expansion of knowledge in particular fields. Academicians, on the other hand, are typically university employees engaged in teaching or research. While scholars can be academicians, not all academicians are necessarily scholars.
Classic examples of scholars include philosophers such as Plato and Socrates, who served as thinkers for their societies. Many scholars enjoy high recognition for their knowledge and may work in think tanks, contributing to global public discourse.
In South Africa, the Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study provides an example of a specialised intellectual hub. Prof. Edward Kirumira once served as its principal and previously held leadership roles at Makerere University. The purpose of such an academic think tank is to create an ideal environment where top researchers and intellectual leaders are nurtured and encouraged to develop innovative solutions to global challenges. It is, fundamentally, a knowledge-creation institution.
Scholars must persist in the face of adversity, even when confronted with setbacks. They must be ready to identify biases, address contradictions in society, and challenge long-held assumptions in open intellectual arenas.
Uganda needs protected intellectual spaces where scholars can think critically, research rigorously, and offer solutions without distraction or ridicule.
Steven Masiga
An interdisciplinary legal scholar from Mbale
Tel: 0782 231577
