MMU Ushers in New Guild Leadership as Kato Patrick Perepetwa Assumes Presidency
Mountains of the Moon University (MMU) has formally ushered in a new chapter of student governance following a solemn and well-attended Guild Leadership handover and inauguration ceremony organized by the Student Affairs Department. The event organizers headed by the Dean of Students, Roselyn Ssali, witnessed the peaceful transfer of power from outgoing Guild President Byakagaba Francis Muhumuza to the incoming Guild President, Kato Patrick Perepetwa, in a ceremony that also saw the swearing-in of the Vice President, the Speaker, all Guild Cabinet Ministers, and Guild Representative Councils (GRCs).
In her remarks, the Dean of Students, Roselyn Ssali, extended warm congratulations to the outgoing Guild President Byakagaba Francis Muhumuza and his entire cabinet for what she described as a diligent and commendable fulfilment of their mandate during their tenure.
Ssali also reserved special recognition for the Electoral Commission, chaired by Enock Kagoro, for the professionalism and competence displayed in organising and managing what she termed a free and fair election. She particularly appreciated the student community for embracing and adapting to the digital voting system that was introduced for this election cycle, a technological initiative that ultimately proved a resounding success.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor in Charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. John M. Kasenene, who represented the Vice Chancellor at the event, delivered a keynote address in which he charged the incoming student leaders to uphold the highest standards of personal conduct.
Prof. Kasenene urged the new leadership to lead by example, cultivate good virtues, maintain discipline, and serve as role models to their fellow students. He further called on them to actively participate in the university’s growth agenda including research and community engagement and to remain honest, transparent, and consultative in all their undertakings.
“Always follow protocol and be accountable to those you serve. Your position is not a privilege, it is a responsibility.”
The Deputy Vice Chancellor in Charge of Finance and Administration, Prof. Kagambe Edmond, added his voice to the chorus of congratulations directed at the Electoral Commission for delivering what he also described as a free and fair electoral process.
Addressing the incoming student cabinet, Prof. Kagambe emphasised that student politicians are partners in the governance of the institution and must conduct themselves accordingly. He advised the new leadership to prioritize student-centred projects that offer value for money, to work closely with the Dean of Students office for all financial approvals, and to ensure that the cabinet operates as a cohesive team, putting the collective good of the student body above personal agendas.
“I remind you of a crucial point: you cannot excel in leadership if you lag behind in your academic pursuits. Your primary duty here is to obtain your degree. Balance your administrative duties with your studies and set an example of academic excellence for your peers.”
The Chief Guest of the occasion, Justice Dan Akiiki Kiiza who is a University Council member and chair of the Council Committee responsible for Student Welfare, Discipline, Gender and Equity, he congratulated both the incoming and outgoing leadership for the manner in which the transition had been conducted.
Justice Kiiza challenged the incoming leaders to adopt a style of leadership that mirrors the values expected of future leaders in society, urging them to be accommodating, inclusive, and principled in their decision-making. He also emphasised the importance of operating within the policy frameworks that govern the university.
He praised all those involved in the electoral process, commending the exercise as highly organised and well-executed. In a gesture that brought the ceremony to a ceremonial high point, Justice Kiiza personally handed over certificates of recognition to the outgoing student leadership in acknowledgment of their service.
In his acceptance speech, the newly sworn-in Guild President, Kato Patrick Perepetwa, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the university administration, led by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Pius C. Achanga, for ensuring security, order, and fairness throughout the electoral process. “You upheld the Guild Constitution and guaranteed every student their right to vote. That is democracy in practice, and we are grateful.”
Perepetwa struck an inspiring tone as he articulated his vision for his tenure, rallying his colleagues with a message of institutional pride and collective responsibility.
“Mountains of the Moon University is our home, our identity, and our shared responsibility. We shall put MMU first always.”
The ceremony concluded on a high note, with the newly sworn-in Guild leadership receiving widespread applause from the student community and university administration alike.
Heights For Progress
Public Relations and Marketing Unit
The Story is courtesy of Brens Willie Wambedde