Mary Akurut
Nkumba University was abuzz today as the three contenders for the guild presidency, Katende Muhammad, Marvin Alinda, and Mawanda Derrick, presented their manifestos before a large crowd of students. The campaigns, organized by the University’s Guild Electoral Commission, drew supporters from various schools, each passionately rallying behind their preferred candidate.
The Dean of Students, Mr. Kimuli Christopher, was in attendance, ensuring that every aspirant had a few minutes to present their manifestos within the allotted time. Katende Muhammad was the first to address the gathering, emphasizing transparency, student empowerment, and accountability in the guild government. He pledged to introduce regular town hall meetings to engage students and the administration, lobby for scholarships, and advocate for better internet connectivity within the university. “We need a student leadership that listens, leads, serves, inspires, acts, and accounts,” Katende said, drawing applause from his supporters.
Marvin Alinda followed, paying tribute to a fellow student who had passed away and apologizing for not attending the burial. He promised to establish a strong media platform to promote Nkumba University and streamline communication between students and faculty. Alinda also pledged to host mega cultural galas on campus, which would not only showcase cultural dances but also educate students about the dos and don’ts of different cultures. “Cultural gala is not all about dancing cultural dances but to know the dos and don’ts of some cultures, which will bring different students all together,” he said.
Mawanda Derrick, the final speaker, pledged to create a student wellness center, lobby for reduced tuition fees for needy students, and address issues with the student portal. “I have spent years without my results reflecting on the student portal, which is really not good,” he said, resonating with students who face similar challenges.
The university’s electoral commission supervised the event, ensuring every candidate had equal time and opportunity to speak. As the secretary noted that tomorrow is the day of electing leaders, students were reminded to come with at least 20% of tuition paid, a student ID, and be enrolled for the semester.
As the campaigns concluded, students took to social media to share moments from the debate and the promises made. With elections happening tomorrow, the atmosphere on campus remains tense but hopeful. The choice now lies with the student body to decide who among the three will steer the University’s guild into the Nkumba that works for all.
