It’s the silence that strikes you first. Ghostly and deathly quiet. That’s worrying to one that has been here on any day within a semester. The often busy University streets are deserted, dotted with the occasional small group of students whose laugh piercing the sky sounds alien. It’s one week into the semester yet Makerere university lies like an old widow; empty, hollow, quiet.
Hall and hostels
The often bustling places of residence are unoccupied, the usually busy halls filled with students screeching with the pleasure of playing FIFA is missing, save the occasional loud subwoofer blaring a Jamaican ballad, Nkrumah hall is quiet. “Students are simply dripping in, we have received a record lowest number, most rooms are empty.” remarks Herbert, the custodian of Livingston hall, showing me the unclaimed room keys.
Classes and Library
The often busy parking yard at school of Economics is empty. Most faculties haven’t kicked off academic business. “The often busy law school hasn’t had a single lecture within it’s classes, the Dean’s letter was mere publicity,” chips in a law student to this reporter.
“Well, at Medical school it’s business as usual, only a few lecturers miss out on class.” declares Andrew, a 3rd year Medicine and surgery student. The Library is as expected; slothful and devoid of life, only a few heads flow through the Library doors, most library sections are empty.
Kikoni and Kikumi kikumi
These are the major housing areas for most students owing to their cheap and readily available eating joints. Mama Ken, the undoubtedly most famous eating joint remarks about the slow business. “We don’t even prepare food half the amount in a typical semester day.” she says.
Why? There’s no doubt when a quick survey is made on why students and lecturers refuse to report. “It’s the the political environment. Uganda’s winter is coming!” Asiimwe Steven prophesys.
Parents are uncertain of what’s going to happen towards elections and especially in the aftermath of the electoral period. They are hesitant sending their kids to school, they’re are worried. Reasonably worried.
“We destined for civil strife, we won’t avoid that. It’s upon us. ” Remarks Doreen, a second year law student, he tone is heavy with negativity.
Electoral Jobs
“Various university students applied and got appointed as polling assistants and other electoral commission jobs. Others are on campaign trails earning a few bucks.” volunteers Rose Mbabazi, a second year Statistics student. ” I personally got myself a job as a polling assistant, I know of a few friends too.” she adds.
Consequences
“Freedom and idleness isn’t the best combination, the blend has therefore rendered students temptation prone. The absence of their parents hawk eyes, the availability of upkeep and the untold freedom is too tempting. The result is loads of alcohol, sex and partying.” Lubwaguzi Andrew, a catholic student leader remarks.
You must be logged in to post a comment.