Makerere University on Thursday, 5 November 2026, held a high-profile celebration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD 2026) in the Main Hall under the theme: “From Legislation to Action: Strengthening Disability Inclusion through Effective Policy Implementation in Higher Education.”

The event brought together university leaders, students, staff living with disabilities, partners and guests to reflect on progress and the gaps that still exist in making higher education truly accessible.

During the event, the university revealed that Makerere currently has 147 students with disabilities. These students represent approximately 0.5 percent of the overall student population.

Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Prof Sarah Ssali, representing the Vice Chancellor, said the day challenges institutions to move beyond sympathy and charity to structured transformation. “A university cannot claim excellence if sections of its community encounter barriers to accessing education, participating in university life, or contributing to knowledge production,” she stated.

Dr Winifred Kabumburi, Dean of Students, outlined concrete measures already in place. These include the establishment of a Disability Support Centre equipped with assistive devices, improved accessible accommodation (including the refurbished Mary Stuart Hall), pathways and elevators in newly constructed buildings, and a dedicated disability van to ease mobility for students.

Daniel Elaju, speaking from lived experience, emphasised that true inclusion begins with having persons with disabilities inside the university system so that policies are informed by real needs. He stressed the importance of reasonable accommodation, assistive technology, interpreters and proper classroom positioning for students with visual or hearing impairments.

Mr Ryan Hopper called for a proactive rather than reactive approach, urging the university to put systems in place across campus — from ramps and handrails to audio curriculum — so that students with disabilities do not have to struggle for basic access.Representing the University Council Chairperson, Rt Hon Dan Fred Kidega linked the day’s theme to Makerere’s motto “We Build for the Future,” noting that genuine future-building requires equal opportunity for every member of the university community regardless of disability.

Among the guests who attended the commemoration was Mr Musanya Musa, founder and CEO of KMVTECHUG, the company that runs King Musah Media. His presence highlighted growing private sector and media interest in issues of inclusion and accessibility.The event reinforced Makerere’s stated commitment to translating existing disability policies into daily practice so that the 147 students with disabilities, and staff living with disabilities, can fully participate in academic and social life.