In a ceremony marked by both tradition and anticipation, Mountains of the Moon University (MMU) witnessed the swearing-in of its 19th Guild leadership on Wednesday, April 30th, 2025, ushering in a new chapter of student governance at the institution.
His Excellency, Byakagaba Francis Muhumuza took the oath of office as Guild President, pledging to represent the student body with integrity and dedication during the 2025-2026 academic year. The ceremony, held at the university’s main campus in Fort Portal, drew attendance from university administration, faculty members, students, and community leaders.
Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof. John M. Kasenene, representing Vice Chancellor Prof. Pius Coxwell Achanga, delivered a powerful address emphasizing the foundational importance of ethical leadership.
“Integrity breeds better community results,” Prof. Kasenene stated, reinforcing the university’s expectations for the incoming guild leadership. “When student leaders act with transparency, honesty, and moral courage, they create an environment where the entire university community can thrive.”
Justice Dan Akiiki Kiiza, the University Council Representative present at the ceremony, offered candid advice on leadership approaches that yield results. His straightforward counsel resonated with the audience of student leaders and attendees alike.
“Sometimes being very aggressive does not help,” Justice Kiiza stated firmly. “Diplomacy can be a powerful tool in achieving your goals.”
The respected jurist elaborated on this practical wisdom, drawing from his extensive experience in leadership and conflict resolution. He encouraged the new guild administration to consider strategic approaches when advocating for student interests.
“When you enter negotiations with demands and confrontation, you often create resistance before any real discussion begins,” Justice Kiiza explained. “But when you enter with respect and a genuine willingness to understand all perspectives, you’ll find doors opening that might otherwise remain closed.”
Justice Kiiza further emphasized the importance of patience and understanding as complementary elements to diplomatic engagement. “The most effective student leaders I’ve observed throughout my years on the University Council have been those who understood when to press forward and when to build relationships that would serve their constituents in the long term.”
Outgoing Guild President, Alijuna Lawrent, received recognition for his leadership during the 2024-2025 academic year. In his farewell address, Lawrent reflected on moments when diplomatic approaches had yielded significant wins for the student body.
“Serving as your Guild President has been the greatest honor of my academic journey,” Lawrent stated. “I’ve learned that timing and approach matter as much as the substance of our requests. Some of our most significant achievements came after careful relationship-building with administration rather than through public pressure.”
“Today marks not just a transition of leadership, but a renewal of our commitment to student welfare and academic excellence,” Muhumuza declared in his inaugural address. “Our administration will focus on bridging the gap between students and administration while championing innovation in learning and campus life.”
Responding directly to Justice Kiiza’s advice, Muhumuza added, “We take to heart the wisdom shared today about the power of diplomacy. We will be firm advocates for student interests, but we will lead with dialogue rather than division. Our strength will come not from confrontation but from our ability to build consensus and find solutions that serve the entire university community.”
Alongside Muhumuza, other members of the guild cabinet were sworn in, including the Vice President, Speaker, Guild Ministers, and representatives from various faculties.
