Makerere University has suspended the 5 percent surcharge on late tuition payments for the current semester following a petition by the Students’ Guild, offering temporary relief to students facing financial difficulties ahead of examinations.
In a May 5 statement, First Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs Sarah Ssali confirmed that the surcharge on outstanding tuition balances has been lifted with immediate effect.
The communication, addressed to Guild President Gracious Kadondi, follows a formal request submitted on April 21, 2026, in which student leaders raised concerns over the strict enforcement of tuition payment policies.
In the petition, the Guild warned that the imposition of penalties, including a 5 percent surcharge and possible de-registration, would disproportionately affect students struggling to meet deadlines due to financial constraints.
“Many of our fellow students continue to face genuine financial challenges due to prevailing economic hardships affecting their families and sponsors,” Kadondi wrote, adding that “a significant number are making every effort to clear their balances but may not meet the deadline.”
The appeal came amid preparations for examinations scheduled to begin on May 18, 2026, with the Guild cautioning that denying examination permits could disrupt academic progress for many students.
The university said the decision followed consultations within its leadership, including recommendations from the Central Management Committee meeting held on April 27, 2026, and approval by the Chairperson of Council.
Management indicated that adjustments would be reflected in the Academic Management Information System (ACMIS).
Despite the concession, the university maintained that full tuition payment remains mandatory for students to sit examinations, progress academically, and graduate.
Students with outstanding balances, particularly from previous semesters, will remain ineligible for examinations, transcripts, certificates, or awards.
The university did not approve the Guild’s proposal to allow students who have paid at least 60 percent of tuition to sit exams, maintaining its position on fee compliance.
Management said the decision balances student welfare concerns with the need for fiscal discipline, noting that it aligns with earlier Council directives on tuition payments.
Professor Ssali commended the Guild for engaging management and said the university remains open to further dialogue.
“The University remains responsive to genuine financial hardships but expects all students to take deliberate steps to clear outstanding fees, complete registration, and secure examination permits in good time,” she said.
The Guild had also expressed willingness to continue discussions with university leadership to find practical solutions that uphold policy while addressing student concerns.