The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has called on student leaders to prioritise honesty, integrity and discipline in both leadership and daily life, saying these values are critical for success in the modern world.
Addressing students of the Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) at the Buganda Kingdom Headquarters in Bulange, Mengo, Mayiga emphasized the importance of consistently speaking the truth, particularly as young people prepare to transition into professional careers.
“When you speak the truth, nothing should stop you from expressing things as they are. Dishonesty is not acceptable. If what you say is correct, stand by it and communicate it clearly,” he said.
He cautioned against dishonesty and urged students to cultivate clarity and transparency in their communication, noting that credibility remains a key foundation of leadership.
Mayiga further encouraged the students to embrace discipline, hard work and preparedness, describing them as essential traits for personal and professional growth. He highlighted innovation, diligence, transparency and passion as critical values for success in today’s society.
According to him, students must also recognise their current stage in life and set clear goals, warning that lack of defined ambition makes it difficult to achieve meaningful progress.
“Without clear goals, it becomes very difficult to achieve success. Know where you are going and work towards it with discipline,” he advised.
The Katikkiro also underscored the importance of cultural awareness, commending IUIU students for maintaining their cultural heritage alongside formal education.
He described cultural grounding as foundational knowledge that strengthens identity and complements academic learning.
He likened individuals without cultural roots to “a fish that cannot swim,” stressing that culture plays a key role in shaping responsible citizens.
Ashiraf Galiwango, a lecturer who led the student delegation, expressed appreciation to the Katikkiro for his mentorship and continued service to the Buganda Kingdom.
IUIU Kampala campus Guild President Ibrahim Musanje Kateregga also thanked Mayiga for what he described as 13 years of leadership, saying his example continues to inspire young people to embrace responsible leadership.
The delegation included students involved in an agricultural initiative under MTB Coffee Works, a student-led coffee farming project in Buddu. The group attributed its progress to the Buganda Kingdom’s “Emmwanyi Terimba” campaign.
Mayiga praised the initiative and pledged further engagement to support and guide the students in expanding their work.
The meeting was attended by several ministers from the Buganda Kingdom.
