KIU Leadership Urges Discipline and Academic Excellence at New Students’ Orientation

By Jacob Munghesi

KIU, Main Campus - Kampala International University (KIU) officially welcomed new students with a strong call for discipline, self-reliance, and academic excellence during its comprehensive orientation session, led by senior university officials who urged entrants to take full responsibility for their academic journey from the very first day.

Representing the Chief Guest and Vice Chancellor, Prof. Muhammed Ngoma, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration, Dr. Mundu Mustafa emphasized that university life demands determination, conviction, and independence. He encouraged students to reflect on their expectations and reminded them that no one would constantly prompt them to study. He cautioned against what he termed “dangerous terminologies” such as dead semester, retake, dead year, suspension, and dismissal describing them as outcomes of carelessness that can derail academic progress. He urged students to remain focused to ensure a successful and fulfilling university experience.

The Director of Academic Affairs, Dr. Vidya Sankarapandian also representing the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Affairs, outlined the academic structure and guided students on proper channels for resolving academic concerns. She advised all entrants to activate their official student email accounts and complete portal registration to avoid inconveniences, particularly regarding examination results and communication.

The Deputy University Secretary and Campus Administrator, Ms. Christine Ainebyoona, reinforced the institution’s zero-tolerance policy on sexual harassment, firmly warning students not to engage in or succumb to any form of exploitation, including exchanging sexual favors for marks. She encouraged students to utilize departmental offices for support and highlighted the University’s culture of recognizing and rewarding outstanding academic performance.

Ms. Mary Baineamasanyu, the Acting Director of Admissions cautioned students to verify their personal details on the student portal, particularly dates of birth, noting that inaccuracies have previously caused challenges during graduation processing. She reassured students that the University continuously monitors teaching standards and learning facilities to maintain a conducive academic environment, urging them to focus on their studies and make the institution proud.

The Acting Director of Marketing, Ms. Irene Komuhendo, encouraged students to take pride in being part of Kampala International University, reminding them that joining KIU is not just an academic choice but a commitment to a community built on excellence, integrity, and ambition. She urged them to carry the KIU identity with confidence and to represent the institution positively in every sphere of life—whether in their academic work, social interactions, online presence, or future professional engagements. According to her, every student is an ambassador of the university, and their conduct, achievements, and character collectively shape how KIU is perceived locally and globally.

The Deputy Director of Customer Care and Bursary, Ms. Charity Nimusima addressed the participants emphasizing the institution’s commitment to student support and service excellence. In the address, students were guided on how to access customer care services, lodge inquiries, and seek assistance whenever needed. She also provided clear information about the bursary application process, eligibility criteria, and key deadlines, encouraging students to take advantage of available financial support opportunities. The session reassured attendees that the institution remains dedicated to ensuring every student feels heard, supported, and empowered to succeed and this was demonstrated in a short skit that was performed by the department officials for quick and better grasp by the attendees.

Addressing security concerns, the Officer In Charge at Kabalagala Police Station, ASP David Tworyem advised students to prioritize personal safety through “target hardening,” encouraging simple preventive measures such as securing their residences to deter criminal activity. He reminded students to exercise their rights responsibly and noted that the police work in partnership with the University to enforce by-laws and national laws to maintain a peaceful campus. He also cautioned against unmanaged stress, warning that it can lead to destructive behavior, and encouraged students to report concerning conduct among peers so that appropriate support can be provided.

Throughout the orientation, what dominated was the unified message from the University leadership emphasizing discipline, responsibility, vigilance, and academic excellence as the foundation for a rewarding student experience.