Makerere University’s School of Biosecurity, Biotechnical and Laboratory (SBLS) Welcomes New Students with a Strong Call to Excellence
Makerere University’s School of Biosecurity, Biotechnical and Laboratory (SBLS) at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) has ushered in a new academic year with a vibrant orientation for its undergraduate and postgraduate students. The school, which offers the Bachelor of Biomedical Laboratory Technology (BBLT) alongside several master’s and PhD programs, continues to position itself as a hub for training professionals in biosecurity, infectious disease management, and biotechnology.
In her address to the incoming class, Associate Prof. Claire Mack Mugasa, Dean of SBLS, congratulated students on making what she described as “one of the best decisions of your lives.” She emphasized that SBLS is a place where knowledge is transformed into solutions for society, and where laboratories serve as the cornerstone of discovery. Prof. Mugasa urged students to embrace active learning, discipline, and self-direction, reminding them that success at university is not accidental but the result of consistent effort and curiosity. She highlighted the importance of attendance, noting that students must participate in at least 70 percent of classes to qualify for examinations. “Your growth will depend on your determination to make the most of the opportunities before you,” she said, encouraging learners to see themselves as future leaders and agents of change.
The Dean’s message was echoed by other faculty and staff of the school, who stressed that SBLS offers both freedom and responsibility. Students were cautioned against passive learning and overreliance on social media, with lecturers emphasizing that the brain remembers what it works on, not what it hears. The orientation also underscored the employability of SBLS graduates, with alumni working across Uganda’s public and private sectors, including the army and police, as well as internationally.
A section of graduate and undergraduate Biomedical Laboratory Technology students attending the SBLS orientation, united in their journey of discovery and innovation.
With programs such as the Bachelor of Biomedical Laboratory Technology (BBLT) recognized as among the most employable in Uganda, the Dean concluded by urging students to seize the opportunity before them, add value to themselves and the country, and embrace the journey ahead with responsibility and determination.
The School Registrar, Dr. Zakumumpa reminded students to complete registration and clear pending requirements to avoid inconvenience. At the same time, Arthur Moses Opio from the Directorate of ICT advised on technical support for accessing university systems, many of which are now online.
A warm welcome from Dr. Philip Magambo, Coordinator of Molecular Biology, as he inspires our new students at orientation.
Faculty leaders, including Dr. Philip Magambo, Dr. Kungu, and others emphasized that SBLS is not only a place of learning but also a platform for students to build competence, character, and connections that will serve them in their careers and beyond.
The orientation highlighted the laboratory as the cornerstone of investigation. William Kabasa Micross, Chief Lab Technologist at CoVAB, reminded students that while freedom exists in the learning environment, lack of concentration leads to weak grades and diminished opportunities. He stressed that organizations seek people of value, and success is within reach for those who commit themselves fully. Other faculty echoed this sentiment, urging students to embrace active learning, question concepts, and apply knowledge rather than relying on passive memorization. Dr. Luke Nkakarahuka underscored that the brain remembers what it works on, not what it hears, and encouraged students to cultivate small daily habits that build long-term success.
“Dr. Tamale Andrew shares inspiring insights with new students at orientation.”
Speakers also addressed the importance of self-directed learning. Students were advised to read ahead, attend seminars, seek research opportunities, and take initiative in their academic journey. Online learning was presented as a powerful complement to traditional methods, with access to world-class professors and research databases enabling SBLS students to compete globally. The message was clear: success depends on personal responsibility, and no one can learn on a student’s behalf.
Senior Lecturer Luke Nkakarahuka inspires new students: ‘University is about thinking, questioning, discussing, and applying concepts. The brain remembers what it works on, not what it hears.’
Beyond academics, the orientation emphasized holistic growth. Ibrahim Ntulume encouraged students to focus on the “three Cs”, namely competence, character, and connection, highlighting the role of social capital in university life. Joseph Kungu, representing Dr. Kankya Clovice, reminded students to embrace their chosen programs, even if they had initially hoped for human medicine, and urged them to become agents of change. Faculty members also shared success stories of alumni who excelled in BBLT and other programs, noting that graduates are employed across Uganda’s public and private sectors, including the army and police, and are making an impact globally.
The orientation concluded with a strong message of encouragement: SBLS offers the right environment, mentorship, and resources for students to excel, but success will depend on their effort, discipline, and commitment.
