Makerere University has intensified efforts to strengthen security across its campuses, with more than 80 security guards completing a specialized refresher training programme aimed at improving crime prevention, emergency response, and protection of university property.
The training brought together guards deployed at the university's various campuses and facilities, including Jinja, Kabanyolo, Mulago, and the main campus in Kampala.
University and police officials said the programme was designed to sharpen professionalism and prepare security personnel to handle emerging threats within one of Uganda's largest higher learning institutions.
Assistant Inspector General of Police Dr. Hadijah Namutebi, who also serves as Director of Welfare, Production and Sports at Makerere University, said the training was intended to equip guards with modern security skills and strengthen their sense of responsibility.
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"We have undertaken them through these courses to ensure that they are up to date with the challenges of crime and how they can prevent or respond to threats and crimes within the university premises," Dr. Namutebi said.
Police officials noted that universities remain highly vulnerable spaces because they host thousands of people from different backgrounds every day.
Commissioner of Police Anatoli Muleterwa, the Commissioner for Community Policing in the Uganda Police Force, said security is critical to the success and stability of learning institutions.
"Makerere University is the centre of knowledge and therefore this knowledge cannot thrive without strengthening security," Muleterwa said.
He added that police are encouraging professionalism, discipline, and proactive policing among private security personnel in a bid to prevent crime before it occurs.
Makerere University Chief Security Officer, Inspector of Police Geoffrey Kaheba, said the refresher training also focused on fire response, first aid, reporting procedures, and rapid emergency action.
"How can we be alert, how can we act very fast in response and reporting, and how do we handle each situation differently?" Kaheba said.
University officials said the programme has left guards better prepared and motivated to respond to the growing security demands of the expanding institution.
As security challenges continue to evolve, Makerere University says it is investing in vigilance, preparedness, and discipline to safeguard students, staff, and university property.
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