The 11th Guild President, Bridget Atuhairwe, hands over reports  to the incoming 12th Guild President, Peninah Akampurira, marking the transition to a new student leadership team at ARU

On 29 August 2026, African Rural University (ARU) Students’ Guild conducted the formal handover of leadership from the 11th to the 12th Guild administration.

The occasion marked the official transition of responsibilities to the newly elected student leaders who will serve the ARU student community during the 12th Guild term.

Passing on the Instruments of Leadership

The handover was led by the outgoing Guild President, Bridget Atuhairwe, who handed over the instruments of leadership to the incoming Guild President, Peninah Akampurira.

The symbolic transfer marked the assumption of office by the new Guild President and the beginning of the 12th Guild administration.

Introducing the New Leadership

The occasion also saw the presentation of the new Guild cabinet, with the incoming leaders taking their respective positions to begin their responsibilities.

The new Guild leadership will represent students, provide student leadership and contribute to the university’s student affairs throughout their term.

Guests at the Guild Handover: From left, Dr Angelo Salasini, PhD (first left); Dr Mwalimu Musheshe, ARU Vice Chancellor (second left); Ms Hannah Bamwerinde, Professors Without Borders (first right); Kritika Dhwiwahar (second right); and Kasaiijja William Mugenyi, Mayor representing the Kagadi District RDC (centre), join students and university leaders during the 12th Students’ Guild handover ceremony.

In her message to students, Ms Hannah Bamwerinde, the Guest Speaker, challenged them to dream big and be visible, to believe in the value of their ideas, confidently showcase their abilities, and make their contributions visible beyond the university.

Members of the 12th ARU Students’ Guild take the oath of office, formally committing themselves to their responsibilities as student leaders.

Continuing the Leadership Journey

The handover represents the continuation of student leadership at ARU, with responsibilities moving from the 11th Guild to the 12th Guild.

For ARU students, the Guild provides an opportunity to develop practical leadership experience while contributing to the life and development of the university community.

By Joseph Odoi