Makerere University Business School Disability Awareness Day 2026 focused on a call to convert awareness into tangible action, with sports and games taking center stage in an effort to promote disability inclusion. The event which was held under the theme “Promoting Disability Inclusion through Sports and Games” was graced by Chief Guest Hon. Joyce Okeny Acan, Minister of State for Disability Affairs and a MUBS alumna. The event highlighted the sporting achievements of students with disabilities and the need for better access throughout institutional life.
Ms. Gorret Byomire, Director of the Disability Resource and Learning Center, thanked the participants and partners for their support, and urged more institutional and government investment in disability inclusion.
She stressed the importance of removing barriers to learning, research, facilities and sporting activities, while improving access to assistive devices and other critical resources. Her message stressed that meaningful inclusion requires sustained commitment, adequate funding and concrete measures that empower persons with disabilities to participate fully.
She appreciated partners including Prime Beverages Limited, Pepsi and Sams were thanked for their ongoing support of the Centre’s activities and inclusion initiatives.
MUBS Principal Prof. Moses Muhwezi’s remarks delivered by School Secretary Dr. Francis Yosa thanked Ms. Byomire and the Center for their continued efforts in promoting disability inclusion through teaching, learning, research and sports.
The Principal warmly welcomed the Chief Guest noting that her achievements as a MUBS alumna were a demonstration that disability does not limit a person from leading, contributing and succeeding.
The Principal later joined the Minister, in his message he stressed that true inclusion is not only about opening doors, but about removing barriers to participation, belonging, and success. He called for improved accessible buildings, learning facilities, hearing aids, Braille materials and other assistive resources, and more government support and funding.
He said the recognition by the Equal Opportunities Commission should serve as an incentive for the School to deepen its commitment and to expand opportunities for persons with disabilities.
On the theme of the day, the Principal stressed on the need of sports to build confidence, discipline, resilience and team work. He said sport also builds friendships, develops talent and challenges stereotypes about disability.
The Principal also congratulated the MUBS blind football team for the victory at the 2026 tournament held at Makerere University and the students’ achievements at the 2026 National Para Sports Championship in Soroti where they won trophies in several disciplines and were second overall.
He congratulated the 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.
Chief Guest Calls for Inclusion in all Institutional Systems and urged for sports facilities, proper equipment, assistive devices and inclusive coaching that is sensitive to needs of athletes with disabilities.
The Minister encouraged students with disabilities to get involved with sports leadership giving the opportunity to help shape programs and decisions as well as participate in sporting activities.
In her appeal she covered infrastructure, teaching, learning, accommodation, technology, student services and employment. She called on the school to embed disability inclusion into its everyday systems and practices, so that accessibility is part of planning and service delivery.
