By Agnes Kiconco

KIU, MAIN CAMPUS- Kampala International University (KIU) Main Campus held an induction seminar for the newly sworn-in guild leaders of the 21st guild cohort on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. Prof. Muhammed Ngoma, Vice Chancellor, congratulated the new leaders on attaining their positions and emphasized the importance of training for effective leadership.

In his presentation on "Leadership Roles and Qualities of a Good Leader," Prof. Ngoma urged the guild leaders to embody the qualities of good leaders, saying, "Do what you think good leaders are doing or have done well, and avoid what they are or did not do well." He stressed that confidence and intelligence are key to successful leadership.

He further broke down the various leadership roles, stating that "Whoever has the ability to get people out of a crisis is the leader, hence a sense of responsibility is key to achieve specific tasks of the organization, all the while maintaining teamwork and harmony."

Ambrose Kibuuka, Member of the University Council, cautioned the leaders to seize every opportunity during their term, noting that leadership is a career launchpad if well harnessed. "It is a shame if you have been a guild leader and after campus, you languish and fail to get a job. Leaders do not sleep walk through life; they have laser sharp eyes that watch out for opportunities and seize them," he emphasized.

He encouraged the student leaders to acquire emotional intelligence, learn to handle their emotions, and advised, "You are not punished for your anger but rather by your anger. Therefore, learn when to play your cards and when to fold them".

Christine Ainebyoona, Deputy University Secretary and Campus Administrator at KIU Main Campus, tasked the leaders to maintain discipline, emphasizing the importance of following protocol and accounting for resources. "Above all, follow protocol and fully account for resources availed to you and everything will flow smoothly because if you can only be trusted to handle the bigger offices if you show ability to handle the positions you have now," she added.

Prof. Arthur Sunday, University Board Member, took the guild leaders through the university's organizational structure and relayed a congratulatory message from Al-Hajj Dr. Hassan Basajjabalaba, Chairman of the Board of Trustees. Prof. Sunday emphasized the importance of understanding the university's governance structure, saying, "Knowing how the Council, Senate, and Disciplinary Committee work will help you navigate your roles effectively".

Dr. Jacob Eneji Ashibi, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), advised the leaders to balance their social, academic, and leadership lives, using time management tools like planners or digital calendars. "Time is a very valuable resource, so you must use it well. Use a planner or digital calendar and allocate time to study, take part in engagements, and serve as a leader," he said, adding, "As you serve the guild, it is important to remember that you are still a student, so you need to concentrate on your education".

Dr. Irene Muriithi Wanjiru, Director of Quality Assurance, encouraged the leaders to prioritize quality in their endeavors, saying, "As leaders, you are ambassadors of the university, and your actions should reflect our commitment to excellence." She also reminded them to seek guidance and support when needed, adding, "Don't hesitate to ask for help when you're unsure about something. Seek help from management when in need and pray to God for guidance and wisdom".

Former Guild Presidents Yvonne Keinembabazi and Godfrey Agaba shared their leadership experiences, noting that the one-year term is crucial for driving change-making policies that pave a path for incoming regimes.

Robinson Ogwang, former Guild President of Makerere University Business School (MUBS) for the 2020/2021 academic year, shared his leadership experience with the new guild leaders. He advised them on how to bridge the gap between students and management, emphasizing the importance of effective communication and collaboration.

He also cautioned the leaders to prepare for life after leadership, saying, "Your leadership term will end, but your legacy should continue. Prepare for life after leadership by building skills, networks, and a strong professional profile that will take you to greater heights".

Closing the seminar, Shakiro Iliku, Dean of Students Affairs, Main Campus, wished the leaders a great term in office, tasking them to be flexible and readily available when called to serve.

Also present at the induction were key university officials, including Charity Nimusiima, Deputy Campus Administrator; Boaz Tumuhimbise, Deputy Dean of Student Affairs; and Dr. Niam Ali Bechir Tadjadine, Deputy Dean in charge of International Students, who contributed to the enriching experience.