Makerere University witnessed a significant moment on Wednesday as Salim "Papa" Were, the 84th guild president, finally graduated after a decade-long journey filled with challenges. Were, known as Papa Were among his Nsibirwa hall-mates, received his bachelor's degree in Veterinary Medicine at Freedom Square, joining his colleagues from the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources, and Bio Security (COVAB).
Enrolling in 2013 with an anticipated completion in 2019, Were addressed the gathered crowd, expressing his joy at finally achieving his academic goal despite the prolonged timeline.
"Going through the gates of Makerere University forever remains a huge feeling. I am happy and congratulate all those graduating this year," Were said.
The extended duration of Were's academic journey falls in line with a trend at Makerere University, where student leaders often delay their course completion due to their commitment to leadership duties. In 2021, media reported a similar case with Jothan Yamureebire Burobuto, who spent nine years pursuing a bachelor of laws degree while holding various leadership roles.
However, Were contends that his situation is unique, attributing the delay to missing marks rather than neglecting his studies for leadership responsibilities. Despite facing challenges in retrieving his marks, Were opted for the longer process, refusing to redo exams. The delays were compounded by the unavailability of key personnel, including the dean of students, head of the department, and supervisors, who were frequently abroad.
In 2018, Were, an independent candidate leaning towards the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), clinched victory in the Makerere University guild presidential race. His victory marked a prominent moment in his activism, having previously gained attention for a solo #Togikwatako demonstration at the Parliament in 2017, opposing the lifting of the presidential age limit.
Were's leadership extended beyond campus as he was part of an ad-hoc committee investigating the university's financial challenges in April 2018. The committee, chaired by Polly Bandola, studied tuition structures at various universities, proposing a 15 per cent cumulative increment to replace the university council's initially proposed 41 per cent and 91 per cent increments.
This recommendation, approved by the university council, triggered demonstrations a year later, with students accusing Were of supporting the implementation of the 15 per cent increment. During the protests, his residence was attacked, and belongings were set on fire by angry students.
Papa Were's journey at Makerere, marked by activism and leadership, now culminates in his graduation, leaving behind a legacy that intertwines academic perseverance and dedication to student welfare.
