By Rukia Nabbanja
Makerere University Guild President Julius Kateregga has protested the ongoing fencing of the Freedom Square.
Keep Reading
The Freedom Square at Makerere is a hotbed for many students and staff assemblies. It the same ground used for graduation ceremonies at Makerere.
Recently, Makerere took a decision to fence off and cage the grounds, a move that has been received with mixed emotions amongst the students.
Guild President Kateregga now wants the University to stop, with immediate effect all the constructions that are ongoing.
Kateregga argues that fencing the square "alters the name and purpose of freedom square,"
Kateregga says that Makerere University's freedom square is a symbol of Academic freedom in not just the university but the country at large.
"This metallic fence alters the name and purpose of freedom square. Makerere University freedom square is a symbol of Academic freedom in the university and in the Nation," Kateregga said in a statement.
He added; "We, therefore, request you to instruct the welders to stop the ongoing fencing with immediate effect."
He asked the university administration that going forward, students' and stakeholders' opinions are captured before making any changes on historical University symbols.
Kateregga also said that they will not sit back against policies that curtail freedom of expression and association.
Other students reactions
" Why should they fence the square? It's in the University and the University is fenced," Annet Humrau, Makerere Student.
Additional Reporting by Jonah Kirabo
