After more than ten years of dead air, Makerere University’s Campus FM is finally back on air — ending a 14-year silence that had long frustrated journalism students and staff.
The surprise announcement came from Dr Aisha Nakiwala, head of the Department of Journalism and Communication, during the 25th Annual Media Convention held under the theme “Responsible Communication and Media Reporting in Uganda Elections.”
The event, hosted at Makerere, drew top names in Uganda’s media and communications industry, including representatives from PRAU, UCC, UTB, UHRC, and major media houses like New Vision and Daily Monitor.
Dr Nakiwala’s words were met with a standing ovation as she thanked the university’s leadership for backing the station’s revival.
“This is a major milestone for our department and for the university at large,” she said. “Campus FM’s return means our students will once again have a practical training ground right here on campus.”
Campus FM went off air in 2009 after Makerere failed to pay its annual licence fee of Shs 3 million, which ballooned to Shs 15 million over time. The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) later revoked its licence in 2011, leaving behind a dormant studio and a generation of students with no practical broadcast experience.
Its return marks not only the station’s rebirth but also a renewed commitment to strengthening journalism education at Uganda’s oldest university.
Prof Saudah Namyalo, dean of the School of Languages, Literature and Communication, told the gathering that the revival was just the beginning.
“I’m 100% sure that the vice chancellor is willing to help the department establish a TV station,” she revealed.
“Recently, we visited Al Qasimia University in the Emirates, and their media facilities are exceptional. I’m confident that within the next one or two years, Makerere will also have a television station running.”
For current students, the announcement couldn’t have come at a better time.
Moses Bolibo, a fourth-year communication major, said the radio station would help bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional experience.
“It’s a real blessing, especially for first-year students,” he said. “Many of us struggled during internships because we lacked hands-on experience. With Makerere Radio back, that gap will finally be closed.”
First-year student Sarah Kirikumwino described the return as a “fresh start” for aspiring journalists.
“It’s a great milestone,” she said. “In this digital era, we need spaces to practice, learn, and fight misinformation. Campus FM gives us that chance to grow as responsible communicators.”
The convention wrapped up with awards recognising outstanding journalism and communication students.
- Turi Elizabeth won the Cranimer Mugerwa Photography Award (Daily Monitor).
- Ahurira Bridget received the Tebere-Mudin Journalism Award (New Vision).
- Boy Fedel was named Best Communication Student and earned free membership in the Public Relations Association of Uganda (PRAU).
