MPs interrogate Makerere University leadership over sexual harassment and welfare

Lawmakers on the Public Accounts Committee (Central Government) have expressed deep concern over persistent allegations of sexual harassment at Makerere University. During a session examining the institution’s accountability and service delivery, Members of Parliament pressed the university administration on student safety and welfare.

Kabarole District Woman MP, Hon. Annet Kirungi, voiced parental anxiety over the ongoing reports, questioning the safety measures in place for female scholars at one of Africa’s premier academic institutions. In response, University Secretary Yusuf Kiranda emphasized that the institution maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy. He noted that management has formed an investigative committee, directed the accused officer to step aside, and previously dismissed staff members found culpable of similar offenses.

Beyond safety concerns, legislators interrogated the administration regarding the non-registration of students under State House scholarships. Hon. Gilbert Olanya pointed out that several beneficiaries, particularly those sponsored from the Acholi sub-region, faced hurdles that forced some to return home. Kiranda clarified that the university solely admits students officially cleared by State House, though he promised to look into specific grievances if provided with the necessary details.

The committee also addressed programme accreditations and access to university grounds. Committee Chairperson Hon. Patrick Nsamba criticized management for restricting student access to the historic Freedom Square, arguing that such measures stifle leadership development and free expression. Kiranda defended the restriction, explaining that an advance booking system was introduced to manage venue clashes among various campus groups.

Additionally, Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Finance, Henry Alinaitwe, petitioned Parliament for increased government funding to boost student welfare, noting that the current daily meal allowance remains at Shs4,500. Read more on the developments at Parliament of Uganda.