KAMPALA, UGANDA — Kabarole District Woman Member of Parliament, Hon Annet Pamela Kirungi, has called on Makerere University to strengthen policies and measures aimed at protecting female students amid allegations of sexual harassment at the institution.
Kirungi emphasized the importance of providing students with a safe and supportive learning environment, noting that parents entrust universities with the responsibility of educating their children while safeguarding their welfare and dignity.
The legislator said parents send their children to institutions of higher learning with the expectation that they will concentrate on their studies without fear of harassment, intimidation or other forms of abuse. She stressed that universities must take this responsibility seriously by ensuring that students are protected throughout their academic journey.
Her concerns come amid renewed attention to allegations of sexual harassment at Makerere University, one of Uganda’s leading institutions of higher learning. The matter has prompted calls for stronger institutional safeguards and more effective mechanisms for addressing complaints involving the safety and welfare of female students.
Kirungi’s remarks underscore the need for universities to establish clear reporting channels through which students can confidentially report harassment and seek assistance without fear of retaliation, stigma or discrimination. Such mechanisms, she indicated, are important in building confidence among students and ensuring that complaints receive appropriate attention.
Responding to the concerns raised before Parliament’s Committee on Public Accounts–Central Government, Makerere University Secretary Yusuf Kiranda said the institution maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual harassment. He explained that the university has established procedures for investigating complaints brought to its attention.
Kiranda, who led a university team before the committee, reaffirmed the institution’s position on sexual harassment as lawmakers examined concerns relating to the protection of students. His response highlighted the university’s existing procedures for handling complaints and addressing reported cases.
The engagement also brought into focus the importance of strengthening accountability within institutions of higher learning. Effective implementation of protection policies, timely investigations and appropriate action against proven misconduct are essential to ensuring that students can pursue their education in a secure environment.
Kirungi’s call places renewed emphasis on the shared responsibility of university administrators, government institutions and other stakeholders to protect students and uphold their rights. As concerns over sexual harassment continue to attract attention, the effectiveness of Makerere University’s safeguards and complaint-handling procedures will remain central to efforts to ensure a safe and respectful academic environment for all students.
