Makerere University’s long-silent radio station, Campus FM, has finally returned on air after more than a decade of silence.
The announcement was made by Dr Aisha Nakiwala, head of the department of Journalism and Communication, during the 25th Annual Media Convention held under the theme “Responsible Communication and Media Reporting in Uganda Elections.”
The convention was organized in partnership with the Public Relations Association of Uganda (PRAU), Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC), and media houses, including New Vision and Daily Monitor.
Nakiwala’s announcement drew a thunderous round of applause from delegates, as she expressed gratitude to the university leadership for their support.
The station’s revival marks the end of a 14-year hiatus. Campus FM was shut down in 2009 after the university failed to pay its annual licence fees of Shs 3 million, which later accumulated to Shs 15 million.
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) subsequently revoked its licence in 2011. At the same event, Prof Saudah Namyalo, dean of the School of Languages, Literature and Communication, reaffirmed the school’s commitment to strengthening journalism training and expanding media infrastructure at the university.
“I’m 100% sure that the vice chancellor is willing to help the department establish a TV station,” she said.
“Recently, the vice-chancellor, the principal, and I visited Al Qasimia University in Sharjah, in the Emirates. We visited their School of Journalism and Media Studies, their radio and TV stations, and they are far much advanced than any media station in Uganda. I’m sure that in the next one or two years, we shall have that TV also running.”
Students excited
News of Campus FM’s return was met with excitement among Journalism and Communication students, who described it as a long-overdue opportunity for practical learning.
Moses Bolibo, a fourth-year student majoring in communication, said the revival would help bridge the gap between theory and practice.
“It’s a real blessing, especially for first-year students,” Bolibo said. “Many of us struggled during internship because we lacked enough practical experience, but with the Makerere radio back on air, that challenge will be solved. It will also help elevate the department of Journalism and Communication to greater heights.”
First-year student Sarah Kirikumwino called the development a milestone in practical media education.
“This is a great milestone for us to begin a fresh start, especially in this era of digital literacy, where information spreads so fast among young people. It brings me joy because it gives us a chance to practice journalism while still at campus,” she said. “Through Mak Radio we shall engage, learn, grow and build our confidence and media ethics as we prepare to fight misinformation and contribute meaningfully to society.”
The convention concluded with awards for outstanding students. Turi Elizabeth received the Cranimer Mugerwa Photography Award from Daily Monitor, Ahurira Bridget won the Tebere-Mudin Journalism Award from New Vision, while Boy Fedel was recognized as the Best Communication Student, earning a free membership in the Public Relations Association of Uganda (PRAU).
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