Kadondi Sworn In as 92nd Makerere Guild President, Promises Unity and Welfare Reforms
Makerere University has officially ushered in a new chapter of student leadership after Gracious Kadondi was sworn in as the institution’s 92nd Guild President.
Kadondi, who contested under the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket, emerged victorious in the April 9 guild elections with 6,801 votes, defeating her closest challenger Hannah Karema in one of the most competitive student races in recent years.
In her inauguration speech, Kadondi struck a unifying tone, calling on students to move past political divisions that characterized the campaign period. She emphasized the need to rebuild a collective student voice that represents all learners, regardless of their political affiliations.
“We must bring students back together and rebuild a strong collective voice that represents everyone,” she said shortly after taking the oath.
Positioning her leadership style around inclusivity, Kadondi revealed plans to consult widely, including engaging former opponents and integrating some of their manifesto ideas into her administration.
Her approach signals a shift toward collaborative governance at a time when student expectations remain high.
Top on her agenda is improving student welfare, with a particular focus on expanding the university’s work-study scheme.
The program currently supports a limited number of financially challenged students through part-time campus jobs, and Kadondi pledged to push for broader access to enable more students to earn while studying.
Her swearing-in officially brings to a close the tenure of outgoing Guild President Churchill Ssentamu, who used his farewell address to reflect on the demands of leadership.
Ssentamu thanked students for their trust, noting that the challenges and criticism he faced ultimately strengthened both his leadership and the institution.
Kadondi assumes office at a politically significant moment for Makerere, with her victory highlighting the growing influence of party-backed politics within university spaces.
For many students, however, the focus now shifts from campaign promises to delivery—particularly on key issues of welfare, representation, and inclusivity.
As the new guild leadership settles in, all eyes will be on whether Kadondi can translate her unity message into tangible reforms that directly impact campus life.