In a display of dissatisfaction, students at Kabale University boycotted lectures, both online and physical, to protest a sudden surge in surcharges. Their outcry, rooted in confusion and frustration over an unexplained spike in fees, led to a significant disruption on campus. Police intervention was necessary to maintain order. The university administration has responded, but the situation remains tense as students await further decisions from the University Council.

Kabale University, the only public University in Kigezi Sub-region, South Western Uganda was marred by protests as students, donning their academic gowns, voiced their grievances against a surcharge increase. Their demand for clarity regarding the sudden rise from Ushs30,000 to Ushs80,000 resulted in visible unrest on campus.

Tukamushaba Amos, the Dean of Students, acknowledged the students' concerns, expressing understanding of their frustration. He assured students that the university was committed to resolving the issue. He also suggested a potential reduction in surcharges, especially for cases where previous fees had been exceptionally high.

In an official announcement, Prof Joy Constance Kwesiga, the University Vice Chancellor, responded to the protests. She explained that the University Senate recommended the removal of surcharges due to late payment of fees. Instead, a late registration fee of Ugx 50,000 per semester was proposed. However, this recommendation is pending approval by the University Council in its upcoming meeting.

According to Godfrey Sempungu, the Head of communication at the University, a meeting between university management and select student leaders took place to address the concerns raised during the protest. The university community now anticipates the decision of the University Council, hoping for a resolution that balances financial requirements with the students' demand for fairness and transparency in fee-related matters.

The situation at Kabale University remains tense, with students closely watching developments and waiting for a final resolution from the University Council.