The New Cohort at CoVAB Urged to Prioritize Academic Progress and Innovation as they got oriented into the Covabian Family
The College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB) at Makerere University held an orientation to welcome its incoming undergraduate students. The event, held in the Media Room, Thursday, 7th August 2025, also served as a platform to promote leadership, innovation, and academic excellence.
The Principal of the college, Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, stressed to the new undergraduate students the importance of having a clear life plan and pursuing it with unwavering dedication. He noted that whether their journey lasts three or five years, success depends on their full commitment. Prof. Mwiine urged students to work together, support each other, and stay focused on both their academic and personal goals. “I stand before you not just as your Principal, but as your brother and your friend,” he said. “I’m here to walk this journey with you, and I pray that you understand the value of embracing your purpose.”
Prof. Mwiine emphasized that university life demands discipline, focus, and responsibility. He urged students to familiarize themselves with key institutional policies, citing the example of the Safeguarding Policy and the Fees Policy, both available on the university website. “We were once young like you,” he said, “and we hope that you remain with us until you successfully graduate.” Acknowledging their new independence, Prof. Mwiine reminded students that while they may be out of sight of their parents and guardians, the university now takes on the parental role. “We take responsibility for disciplined students,” he noted, encouraging them to live responsibly and support one another as brothers and sisters within the CoVAB family.
Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, Principal of CoVAB; Dr. Claire M. Mugasa, Dean of SBLS; Prof. Robert Tweyongyere, Dean of SVAR; and Mr. Walter Odoch, College Bursar, during the student orientation held on Thursday, 7th August 2025.
He stressed the importance of academic commitment, particularly for those enrolled in five-year programs, urging them to complete their studies within the designated timeframe. “As a parent, I feel aggrieved when students stay longer than expected,” he said. Prof. Mwiine described the university as a space for intellectual growth, self-expression, and discovery—especially in the sciences, where students are expected to grasp core principles, challenge ideas, and enjoy the pursuit of knowledge. He also acknowledged the financial sacrifices made by privately sponsored students and cautioned scholarship recipients to safeguard their opportunities. He warned against excessive use of social media, encouraging students to use digital platforms purposefully for learning, communication, and personal development.
In his welcome remarks, the Deputy Principal, Assoc. Prof. James Acai Okwee, congratulated the incoming undergraduate cohort on their admission to Makerere University, describing it as a pivotal transition from student to professionalism. He noted that the students were stepping into esteemed fields such as laboratory science, animal production and management, and veterinary medicine, which careers play a vital role in society. “This stage of your life will shape the kind of professional and person you become,” he said.
A section of staff who were at the orientation
Prof. Acai highlighted CoVAB’s proud legacy, emphasizing that many accomplished individuals have passed through its programs, which are recognized and respected globally. “At CoVAB, we cultivate diverse careers, create opportunities, and produce professionals who make a lasting impact,” he affirmed. While acknowledging the widespread concern about unemployment, he reassured students that CoVAB graduates are well-prepared to make meaningful contributions to Uganda’s development. “You won’t find our products aimlessly walking the streets,” he said. “They are trained to lead, innovate, and serve.”
He further explained that the Office of the Deputy Principal is responsible for quality assurance and the coordination of effective teaching and learning, including the development of the global timetable for all academic programs. Prof. Acai concluded by encouraging students to remain focused on their academic mission, to be self-driven, and to use their freedom wisely. “Let your commitment to the purpose that brought you here guide your choices,” he advised.
Incoming undergraduate students who attended the orientation at CoVAB
The Dean School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Resources (SVAR), Prof. Robert Tweyongyere noted that all of the students were admitted on merit and shared that working hard and discipline were the two major principles of success. ‘Now you have entered into another journey, you need to be re-energized for the next period. He noted that some of the reasons why students do not complete on time focused on forgetting the cardinal reason as to why they were at university. All of us here went through this stage successfully, and you can do it. Citing an example of a former student who failed to complete because of football, he asked them to make the right decisions. Do not lie back and struggle with challenges, but come up and approach the respective offices to seek counsel and advice whenever need arises
Dr. Claire M. Mugasa, Dean of the School of Biosecurity, Biotechnical and Laboratory Sciences (SBLS), warmly welcomed the new students with a message that resonated deeply with purpose and possibility. She likened their arrival at the university to receiving a blank slate or an open canvas waiting to be filled.
“Whatever you write on this slate is what you will go out with,” she emphasized, urging Freshers to take ownership of their academic journey.
She reminded them that while the slate is theirs, they are not alone. The faculty and staff are here to guide, support, and equip them with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. Responsibility, she noted, must extend beyond academics into communication, conduct, and personal growth.
The College Registrar, Mr. Byarugaba Richard, flanked by Ms. Roseline Nalwanga from the Guidance and Counselling Centre, Makerere University
The College Registrar, Mr. Byarugaba Richard, welcomed the new students with a message underscoring the importance of timely registration and active engagement with his office. He noted that the registration process is the first step in becoming a bona fide student and emphasized that privately sponsored students would receive their original admission letters upon completing registration. Mr. Byarugaba outlined the college’s four-level assessment structure, the continuous assessment, practical exams, oral exams, and the final university examination, all of which contribute to the final mark. He also drew attention to the institution’s strict policy on examination malpractice, informing students about the Exam Irregularities Committee, which handles cases of misconduct. He urged students to uphold academic integrity and take responsibility for their learning.
The College Librarian, Ms. Lydia Namugera Senjovu, welcomed students and affirmed their eligibility to access library services upon presentation of a valid photo ID, including provisional admission letters. She noted that the library is open daily from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM, offering a wide range of academic support services. These include access to electronic resources, reference services, information literacy sessions, and plagiarism detection tools to uphold academic integrity. She also emphasized the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence, cautioning against its abuse in academic work. Students were encouraged to take a brief tour of the library to familiarize themselves with its facilities. As a Safeguarding Champion, Ms. Senjovu highlighted the importance of safeguarding, which involves protecting students’ rights and promoting a safe and respectful learning environment.
Senior Superintendent of Police Gubira Gerald, Chief Security Officer at Makerere University, urged students to utilise police services whenever they need assistance. He reminded them that life at Makerere can be enjoyable and free, provided they follow university regulations and abide by the laws of Uganda. He expressed concern that some students had already lost original documents, which can be difficult and stressful to replace.
SSP Gubira urged students to stay alert, highlighting the high rate of theft, scammers, and robbers, even near student hostels. He stressed the need to protect personal belongings like laptops and phones, and advised students to live within their means, avoid accepting suspicious free offers, and stay away from drugs and other illegal activities. He also recommended using the main entrance when entering campus, remaining visible, moving in groups, and always being aware of their safety.
Ms. Rosemary Nalwanga from the Counseling and Guidance Centre highlighted the importance of proper orientation to help students navigate campus life and avoid unnecessary difficulties. She advised students to be careful when choosing friends, recognizing their value while also emphasizing the importance of building healthy and supportive relationships.
She explained that orientation is not just about logistics, but about preparing for the full spectrum of experiences that come with the academic journey. Life at university, she noted, is not only about academics but also about building networks and connections. Lecturers, for instance, can serve as mentors and even open doors to future career opportunities.
Ms. Nalwanga urged students to embrace failure as part of growth. “Many talk about success, but most people fail before they succeed,” she said, encouraging students to seek help when facing setbacks. The right support, she emphasized, can make all the difference.
Her message also included a call to develop entrepreneurial skills, especially in cases where formal employment may not be immediately available. She emphasized the importance of managing fear, particularly the fear of failure, which often hinders achievement.
“We want you to thrive,” she concluded, “and successfully transition from university to the world ofwork.”
Ritah Ndibalekera, Chairperson of the College Guild Council, encouraged new students to immerse themselves in campus life by joining clubs and associations. She emphasized that these groups play a crucial role in building social networks and fostering both academic and personal development. Among the initiatives she highlighted were the AniScholar Career Hub, which supports students in shaping their academic and professional paths; the Emerging Leaders Program, aimed at nurturing leadership potential; and the Animal Health and Welfare Club, which promotes advocacy and awareness in animal care. She urged students to take full advantage of these opportunities to enrich their university experience and prepare for future success.
Some of the Associations that were at the College to welcome the incoming students
Story by Musinguzi Harriet.
