Makerere University has instituted mechanisms to improve the safety and wellbeing of students on campus and off campus.
These include policies and guidelines such as a policy on regulations against Sexual Harassment, Gender equality policy, student regulations, human resource manual and a policy on students with disabilities.
Makerere Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe said Thursday that the measures have been implemented to provide the human right of a safe environment to all students and staff, to respond to new challenges affecting students and promote dignity and respect among students and staff.
Among the safety measures is the accreditation of hostels where all hostels, through the Hostel Owners Association, shall be required to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the university. Only shortlisted hostels shall be recommended to students though they shall still be at liberty to opt for whichever hostel they intend to reside in.
The accreditation of hostels is to enable the University account for the well-being of each and every student and minimise risks and other challenges that they are bound to face.
Makerere University also intends to establish a grievance management desk where students can easily report concerns and challenges, they face. This will be under direct supervision of the dean of students.
Under the new safety mechanisms, there shall be a disability support center with basic support facilities for students with special needs. Such facilities include establishment of ramps on buildings to ease movement of students with special needs.
According to the university management, students have been exposed to risks through learning spaces, accommodation spaces, administrative and support services spaces, public spaces, campaigns and sports competitions among others.
