The university has urged students to ensure full payment of their tuition before the examination period to avoid “unnecessary inconveniences.” According to the letter, no student will be issued an examination permit without completing payment in full.
Makerere University has reaffirmed its strict tuition payment policy, denying requests from the Guild President to allow students to sit for examinations after paying only part of their fees.
In a letter dated 13 May 2025, Vice Chancellor Professor Barnabas Nawangwe responded to an appeal from H.E. Kadondi Gracious, the 92nd Guild President, who had requested that students be allowed to take examinations after paying at least 60% of their tuition. While the university approved the waiver of surcharges for late payments and extended the registration period without penalty, the request to permit examinations based on partial payment was rejected.
“The appeal to allow students to sit for examinations on partial payment of fees was not allowed as this contravenes the fees payment policy and our obligations to Government,” the Vice Chancellor stated. He further reminded students that fees cover the cost of knowledge imparted during the academic term, not just examinations, which are subject to separate fees.
The university has urged students to ensure full payment of their tuition before the examination period to avoid “unnecessary inconveniences.” According to the letter, no student will be issued an examination permit without completing payment in full.
This decision comes amid ongoing debates on higher education affordability and student welfare in Uganda, highlighting the balance institutions must maintain between financial sustainability and student support.
Copies of the Vice Chancellor’s letter were sent to key university offices, including the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Academic Registrar, Dean of Students, and University Bursar.
