Last Sunday, on September 21, 2025, Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) concluded a successful five-day intensive training program for its new cohort of peer educators. This crucial training equipped students with the knowledge and skills necessary to support their peers across a wide range of academic, health, and social challenges.
Foundation and Core Health Modules
The program kicked off with an in-depth session led by Jackline Nabimanya, the Assistant Administrator and Coordinator for HIV and Peer Activities. Her session set the stage for the week by covering the history of the MUST Peer Project and outlining the norms and values of the training, establishing a shared commitment among the participants.
The core of the health education was driven by several experts. Bukenya Hakim, a former Administrative Secretary of the MUST Peer Project, guided the trainees through common Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (ASRHR) information. His modules focused on understanding sexual and reproductive rights, exploring sexuality and gender, and addressing critical issues like sexual violation and abuse, providing a comprehensive view of campus safety and well-being.
Complementing this, Christine Tumwesigye, a nurse, facilitated sessions on essential women’s health topics, including menstrual health and hygiene, family planning and contraceptives, and the prevention of early pregnancies. Denis Tamale, a Senior Peer Educator, provided trainees with practical insights into the principles and methodologies of effective peer education.
Life Skills and Guidance
To ensure the new peer educators are holistically prepared, the program included critical life skills and guidance sessions. Nakalema Gladys, a Lecturer in the Faculty of Science, led a transformative session focused on life planning skills and self-awareness, empowering the students to effectively guide their peers by first understanding themselves.
The essential element of support was covered by Moureen Kahima, the Deputy Dean of Students. Her session delved into peer guidance and counselling, providing a strong framework for understanding counselling principles and ethical conduct when interacting with fellow students who are seeking help.
Certification and future mandate
The rigorous five-day training program was officially closed by the Dean of Students, Mr. Kyagaba Emmanuel. Mr. Kyagaba congratulated the new peer educators on their dedication and commitment to serving the university community.
He formally awarded them with certificates, commissioning them to take up their important roles as frontline mentors and advocates for positive change within MUST.
