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The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) is grappling with a growing backlog of 1,521 pending cases, exacerbated by severe budget shortfalls and the withdrawal of development partner funding. The Auditor General’s report highlights regional disparities and the government’s underfunding, raising concerns over the Commission’s ability to deliver justice. Recommendations for alternative dispute resolution and increased government support are critical to resolving the crisis.

As Uganda prepares to celebrate International White Cane Day, the government, along with civil society, is spearheading efforts to raise awareness and funds to provide 10,000 white canes for persons with visual impairments. The initiative, themed “A White Cane for Every Blind Person,” aims to enhance independence, mobility, and access to essential services for Uganda’s visually impaired community. A marathon, “Run for the Blind,” will headline the event, calling on the public to “walk the talk” in supporting accessibility and inclusion for all.

The lecturers’ strike at Makerere University has entered its fifth day, leaving many students stranded as key colleges remain shut. With exams approaching, students express growing frustration over missed classes and uncertain futures. While some colleges continue with lectures, others remain closed, creating a stark divide on campus.

Dr. Crispus Kiyonga’s tenure as Makerere University Chancellor began amidst turmoil, as the Makerere University Joint Staff Associations initiated a strike over unresolved salary harmonization issues. The withdrawal of labor has disrupted lectures and other university operations, casting a shadow over the new chancellor’s installation. Staff demand full payment of UGX 12.6 billion in salary adjustments and protest against what they view as unfair demotions. The standoff threatens to escalate tensions on campus, affecting students and staff alike.

The Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) has extended the deadlines for submission of Continuous Assessment (CA) scores for UCE and UACE candidates. Heads of schools are urged to submit the required scores by October 30, 2024, for Senior Four and November 15, 2024, for Senior Three. UNEB emphasized that candidates without CA scores will not be graded, underlining the critical importance of meeting the new deadlines.

President Yoweri Museveni hailed Dr. Crispus Kiyonga as an outstanding NRM leader during his installation as the 8th Chancellor of Makerere University. The ceremony also marked the reopening of the refurbished Ivory Tower, which had been destroyed by fire in 2020. Dr. Kiyonga, a Makerere alumnus, pledged to strengthen the university’s ties with the government and drive transformation in Uganda.

At the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) commemoration, held at Makerere University, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi emphasized the critical need to bridge information gaps between the Ugandan government and its citizens. He announced the launch of a new TV program, “The FrontPage,” aimed at educating the public on the roles of various ministries. The event also highlighted concerns about restricted access to information, the role of journalists, and the digital transformation’s impact on public engagement.

Uganda’s Cabinet has approved the National Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) Policy, which aims to position the country as a leading outsourcing destination in Africa. This groundbreaking policy is expected to generate 100,000 new jobs, offering a significant boost to youth employment and driving economic growth.

Uganda’s elderly population faces increasing neglect as key government programs like the Parish Development Model fail to reach vulnerable senior citizens. With less than 3% benefiting from financial support, Minister Gidudu warns of a looming social crisis if urgent reforms are not made. Budget cuts and exclusion from money-generating activities further exacerbate the situation.

A new study has revealed that 86% of elderly persons in Uganda suffer from neglect, making it the most common form of abuse among the country’s older population. The study, conducted by Maria Atim and colleagues, also highlights other forms of abuse, including physical, psychological, financial, and domestic violence. The findings call for urgent action to protect Uganda’s elderly from widespread mistreatment and to address the growing needs of this vulnerable population.