Mubs Nakawa– The Disability Awareness Day 2026 came with a call to translate awareness into practical action, placing sports and games at the centre of efforts to promote disability inclusion. Held under the theme “Promoting Disability Inclusion through Sports and Games,” the event was graced by Hon. Joyce Acan Okeny, Minister of State for Disability Affairs and a MUBS alumna.
The Director of the Disability Resource and Learning Center, Ms. Gorret Byomire, thanked participants and partners for their support and called for stronger institutional and government investment in disability inclusion. She emphasized the need to remove barriers to learning, research, facilities and sporting activities, while improving access to assistive devices and other essential resources. Her message underscored that meaningful inclusion requires sustained commitment, adequate funding and practical measures that enable persons with disabilities to participate fully.
Delivering remarks on behalf of MUBS Principal Prof. Moses Muhwezi, School Secretary Dr. Francis Yosa commended Ms. Byomire and the Centre for their continued work in advancing disability inclusion through teaching, learning, research and sports. The Principal warmly welcomed the Chief Guest, noting that her achievements as a MUBS alumna demonstrated that disability does not limit a person’s capacity to lead, contribute and succeed. He also noted that recognition by the Equal Opportunities Commission should serve as encouragement to deepen the School’s commitment and expand opportunities for persons with disabilities. He observed that sporting activities also create friendships, develop talent and challenge stereotypes about disability.
The Vice Chairperson Mr. James Mwesigye emphasized that genuine inclusion goes beyond opening doors: it requires removing barriers to participation, belonging and success. He called for stronger funding and government support to improve accessible buildings, learning facilities, hearing aids, Braille materials and other assistive resources.
The Principal later joined the Minister in enjoying different games and celebrating the MUBS disability team’s victory at the 2026 at the 2026 National Para Sports Championship in Soroti, where they won trophies in several disciplines and finished second overall. He congratulated team captain Jimmy Innocent, the athletes, coaches, guides and team officials, and acknowledged the contributions of the Disability Resource and Learning Center, the Sports Department and other supporters. His message stressed that talent remains present regardless of disability, while inaccessible environments and limited support often restrict opportunities to demonstrate it.
Chief guest called for accessible sports facilities, appropriate equipment, assistive devices and inclusive coaching that responds to the needs of athletes with disabilities. Minister also encouraged students with disabilities to participate in sports leadership, giving them opportunities to help shape programmes and decisions alongside taking part in sporting activities.
Her appeal extended to infrastructure, teaching, learning, accommodation, technology, student services and employment. She urged the School to embed disability inclusion within its everyday systems and practices, ensuring that accessibility is considered in planning and service delivery. Through sporting achievement and calls for practical institutional improvements, MUBS Disability Awareness Day 2026 highlighted the importance of creating an environment where persons with disabilities can participate, excel and belong.
