education 19 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Makerere Students' Race Against Time to Fund Uganda's Global Representation
Five law students from Makerere University narrowly overcame a monumental financial hurdle, raising Shs200 million in just 10 days to secure their visas and represent Uganda at a prestigious international moot court competition in Washington D.C. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/jobs-and-career/how-students-raised-shs200m-in-10-days-to-represent-uganda-5465788
Representing Uganda on the global stage at the Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition in Washington D.C. presented a daunting financial challenge for five law students from Makerere University.
Each student was required to pay a substantial $10,000 (approximately Shs38 million) visa bond, meaning the team needed to collectively raise nearly Shs200 million within a tight 10-day deadline. This financial burden, coupled with personal anxieties like first-time international travel for some, threatened to derail their participation.
The team, comprised of Ian Weyaula Chemiat, Julius Ainomugisha, Philomena Acom, Isabel Akankwatsa, and Clare Nakawuka, had proven their mettle by winning the national rounds. However, their university and families were unable to provide the necessary funds for the visa bonds.
Faced with overwhelming odds, the students embarked on an intensive fundraising campaign. They reached out to classmates, lecturers, friends, and relatives, piecing together the required sum through a series of small contributions and a few larger donations. Some had to take out loans, the repayment of which will extend beyond the competition.
Despite the immense effort, one team member was unable to secure her visa bond in time and could not travel with the group, a significant emotional blow. Nevertheless, the remaining four students, carrying the hopes and sacrifices of many, proceeded to Washington D.C.
At the competition, which simulates disputes before the International Court of Justice, the Ugandan team joined over 170 teams from more than 100 countries. They navigated complex international legal issues, presenting their arguments before simulated judges and holding their own against fierce global competition.
The experience proved transformative, broadening their understanding of global legal challenges and fostering connections with international peers. They returned with invaluable lessons, a strengthened ambition for international law, and a desire to build better support systems for future Ugandan participants.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)