Eight students coming from Kyambogo University have been arrested by the police for starting a protest against online learning today morning.
This protest was organised by guild members of the university who helped mobilise the other students to show their dissatisfaction as stated by the Kampala Metropolitan Deputy Police Spokesperson, ASP Luke Oweyisigire.
The students wanted the online learning to be stopped on allegations for it being too costly for them to manage. They were suggested the semester be extended to the current semester.
However, the police and university authorities made this decision to curb in because they were trying preventing the spread of the deadly COVID-19 following the discovery of 8 cases in the university this week.
In a statement, KMP deputy spokesman Luke Owoyesigire said that the students became unruly, prompting police to disperse them to bring the situation under control.
“We have, however, managed to arrest eight students. They include; Kato Eriasa, Kasozi Bright, Namara Claire, Nkurunziza Alphonse, Malingumu Ivan, Ssali Geoffrey, Waiswa Calvin and Mbazira John,” Owoyesigyire said.
“They have been charged with inciting violence. They are detained at Jinja Road Police Station as investigations continue,” added the spokesperson.
In a phone interview, Professor Eli Katunguka Rwakishaya, the Vice-Chancellor of the university said that the Open Distance and E-learning system that the students are protesting against is recommended by the Government of Uganda.
Professor added that students who claim they cannot manage the system because of a lack of smartphones should not blame it on the university.
“Students should look for all means possible to adhere because the COVID-19 situation is worsening and students cannot keep meeting physically,” adds Vice-Chancellor Katunguka.
