Nature, causes and management of student activism in Makerere University

Abstract

In this study, I explored the complexities of student activism at Makerere University focusing on its nature, causes, and management. I used a Qualitative approach of research basing on Altbach’s theory of students’ activism in the 20th century (Luescher, 2018) which provides a framework for understanding the complexities of student activism. A sample of fourteen participants was used which was purposively selected. These included eight student leaders and six university administrators. I used interview guides to obtain primary data and document checklists to obtain secondary data which were analyzed by using themes. Findings indicated that student activism in Makerere University manifested demand for accountability from students’ leaders and management. Findings also indicated that student activism was as a result of stalements where students’ efforts to advance their issues tended to be blocked. On management of student activism, findings indicated that Makerere University had rigid bureaucratic and hierarchical structure/framework which led to a slow decision making process on matters affecting students. The study concluded that student activism at Makerere University was indicative of a demand from students for management to take action on matters affecting them and that it was caused by lack of clear channels for students to advance their dissatisfactions. It further concluded that Makerere University operated under a rigid structure of managing student activism which limited quick decision making. The study therefore, recommended that the university should support student leaders through capacity building for effective leadership as they demand for their rights and timely give explanations for any action taken that might affect students. It further recommended that university should establish open communication channels which allow expression of student’s views. In addition, the study recommended that Makerere University should shift from the rigid structure of managing student activism to a democratic embracing approach which does not overlook the urgency of students’ matters. The study contributed to the body of knowledge by making an addition to the existing literature on student activism and publications and provided an insight on how Makerere University and other institutions of higher learning shall respond to student activism