Students at Bishop Stuart University in Mbarara have launched a campaign called “Saida Rafiki,” a Kiswahili phrase meaning "help a friend," aimed at assisting students struggling to pay their tuition.
According to Ronald Asiimwe, the guild president, the campaign is currently limited in funding but seeks to provide partial support, covering 10% - 30% of the tuition for each student registered through the chaplain's office.
“At the moment, we are looking at helping to top up 10% - 30% of tuition for students identified by the chaplain's office,” Asiimwe explained.
“We hope to increase the percentage in the future.”
Students apply through the dean’s office and the chaplain’s office at the end of each semester. These offices conduct thorough background checks to identify deserving candidates based on verified information.
The campaign recently held its first marathon fundraiser, organized by the student guild office, with a goal to raise Shs. 15 million. Student leaders plan to make this marathon an annual event to sustain the initiative.
“All funds collected are deposited into the student guild’s account, which is overseen by university management to ensure transparency,” Asiimwe added.
This initiative complements an existing program through the chaplain's office, where a special “saidia Rafiki” collection is held during Sunday services alongside the usual offertory.
