Kabale University played host to the 7th Annual Deans of Students and 15th Guild Leaders Conference, held at the KABSOM Hostel Makaga in Kabale District. Over the course of four eventful days, from Wednesday, September 20th, 2023, to Saturday, September 23rd, 2023, delegates from across the nation gathered under the theme, “University Students’ Leadership and Employment in the 21st Century.” The conference, attended by representatives from over 20 universities, both public and private, within Uganda, including esteemed deans of students, guild leaders, and invited guests, was a beacon of inspiration and knowledge sharing.
Day One: Arrival and Warm Welcome
The event commenced on Wednesday, September 20th, 2023, with delegates arriving and checking in. The hospitable Dean of Students at Kabale University Mr.Tukamushaba Amos ensured a smooth beginning to this conference.
Day Two: Insights and Inspiration Thursday, September 21st, was marked by a day of enlightening discussions. The event began with introductions and an official opening ceremony graced by the Dean of Students at Kabale University. Notable highlights included presentations on “Nurturing a Responsible, Productive, and Ethical Leader in Today’s Society” by Assoc. Prof. Sekiwu Dennis and “Acceptable Communication and Strategies in Leadership” by Dr. Godfrey Sempungu, the Senior Communications and Branding Officer at Kabale University.
Day Three: Forging a Path to Success
Friday, September 22nd, 2023, was a day of profound revelations. Mr. Kasasa Christopher, the former Dean of Students at Nkumba University, shared insights on “Education for Employment: Understanding the Magic.” He emphasized the power of choices, the value of education beyond exams, and the importance of skills, innovation, and character.
Interactive discussions ensued, with students passionately sharing their aspirations, from becoming future billionaires to assessing opportunities within their courses and embracing networking. Deans of Students from various universities, including Bishop Stuart University and Makerere University, provided valuable guidance on skills, languages, time management, and the power of a growth mindset.
Madam Confidence Asiime Nkurunungi, the University Councilor at Kabale University, She gave a captivating presentation on “Harnessing Emotional Intelligence for Healthy Relationships.” She emphasized the importance of empathy, social skills, conflict resolution, and self-regulation, underscoring the benefits of emotional intelligence in creating positive environments.
All participants were honored with certificates of participation, a testament to their commitment to personal and academic growth.
A Gathering of Minds from Across Uganda
More than 20 universities participated in this educational event, including Kabale University, Ibanda University, Soroti University, Lira University, Kyambogo University, Makerere University, Gulu University, Uganda Christian University, African Renewal University, Bishop Stuart University, Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), Entebbe Institute of Vocational Studies, Mountains of the Moon University, Kampala International University, Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU), All Saints University, Kisubi University, Bugema University, Busitema University, among others.
The event concluded with the exciting announcement that Soroti University would host the next conference.
The conference’s success was attributed to the hard work and dedication of Mr. Tukamushaba Amos, the Host Dean of Students at Kabale University, who expressed his gratitude to all participants and fellow deans of students. The Host Guild President of Kabale University H.E.Diaz Drake echoed these sentiments and emphasized the importance of networking for a brighter future.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academics at Kabale University-Prof. Benon C. Basheka, the esteemed Chief Guest, shared valuable life lessons, focusing on leadership accountability, communication, financial management, emotional intelligence, academic dedication, discipline, networking, and collaboration.
To celebrate the success of the conference, student leaders and deans embarked on a memorable social evening and tour of Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda’s deepest lake. Participants expressed their joy, with one student leader, Hon.Shifrah from MUST remarking, “This has been the most organized and enjoyable conference compared to the ones we’ve attended before.”
As the 7th Annual Deans of Students and 15th Guild Leaders Conference drew to a close, participants departed with newfound knowledge, inspiration, and a shared vision of nurturing responsible, productive, and ethical leaders for Uganda’s future.
Click here to view the Photos about the event