The Department of Student Affairs at Mountains of the Moon University (MMU) today commenced a comprehensive orientation program for first-year students, marking the beginning of their academic journey at the institution.
The three-day orientation exercise, which began today and will conclude on Friday, is designed to familiarize new students with university systems, academic expectations, and campus life. The program brings together hundreds of first-year students from various faculties and departments across the university.
The Dean emphasized that success at university level requires dedication, discipline, and consistent effort from students. She urged the new students to take advantage of all the opportunities available at the institution while maintaining their academic priorities.
The Department of Student Affairs has structured the orientation to address critical areas that new students need to understand as they transition from secondary school to university education. The program covers academic regulations, student support services, campus facilities, and co-curricular activities available at the institution.
“This orientation is crucial for helping our new students settle into university life smoothly,” Ssali noted. “We want to ensure they understand the university environment and have all the information they need to succeed academically and socially.”
Guild President Byakagaba Muhumuza Francis also addressed the new students, encouraging them to take full advantage of campus life while prioritizing their health and well-being.
“I encourage all new students to join different clubs and involve yourselves in constructive friendships,” said Byakagaba. “Most importantly, stay healthy and avoid HIV. Your health is your wealth, so make responsible choices throughout your university journey.”
The orientation program includes sessions on academic, library services, health and counselling services, and student welfare programs. New students were introduced to the university’s code of conduct, examination regulations, and disciplinary procedures by the Senior Legal Officer of the University, Byaruhanga Dixon
Campus tour forms a significant part of the orientation, first-year students will be taken around various facilities including lecture halls, laboratories, the library, sports facilities, and administrative offices. This helps students familiarize themselves with the physical layout of the campus and locate essential services.
The program also features presentations from different university departments, including the Registry, Finance Office, ICT Services, and University Clinic. These sessions are designed to help students understand the various services available to them and how to access them when needed.
Guild leaders are participating in the orientation as peer mentors, sharing their experiences and offering practical advice on navigating university life. This peer-to-peer interaction helps create connections and support networks for the new students.
The Department of Student Affairs has emphasized the importance of active participation throughout the three-day program. Students are encouraged to ask questions, engage in discussions, and make the most of the networking opportunities provided.
Safety and security awareness forms another critical component of the orientation, with sessions focusing on personal safety, campus security measures, and how to report incidents or seek help when needed.
The orientation program represents MMU’s commitment to ensuring that new students have a successful transition into university life. By the end of Friday, the first-year students will be better equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in their academic pursuits.
The comprehensive nature of the orientation reflects the university’s understanding that successful student integration requires more than just academic preparation, it involves social, emotional, and practical readiness for the university experience.
