SoL Hosts Mpigi Mixed Secondary School Students for Career Guidance

A group of A ‘Level students visited Makerere University’s School of Law (SoL) on Friday, 23 January 2026, to learn about university life, the Bachelor of Laws (LLB) programme, and potential careers in the legal profession. Prof. Christopher Mbazira addressed talked to the students during the visit, he shared his academic and professional experience as well as answering questions about studying law. He also explained to the students’ available opportunities after studies.

Prof. Christopher Mbazira addressing the students from Mpigi Mixed Secondary School.

 

In his welcome remarks, Prof. Mbazira reflected on his career, from his early days as a teaching assistant to his tenure as Dean of the SoL. He now teaches undergraduate and postgraduate students in subjects including tort law, criminal procedure, international law, and international human rights law. Alongside his academic work, he practices law, with a particular focus on public-interest litigation—legal action aimed at advancing the public good.

Admission and study

Professor Mbazira explained that the LLB is a four-year degree programme, and admission to Makerere University for the programme is highly competitive. Applicants must pass a pre-entry examination, for academic year 2026/2027, over 2000 applications were received but only 280 students were admitted. The pre-entry examination may assess aptitude, general knowledge, mathematics, and creative writing. He encouraged students to read newspapers, follow documentaries and news programmes, learn about history, and pay attention to the world around them. He noted that exam questions can cover unexpected details, so broad general knowledge is important.

Mpigi Secondary School Students Students.

He encouraged prospective students to prepare carefully, both academically and mentally. The LLB programme comprises two semesters a year; each semester concluding with examinations. Students may apply for either the morning or afternoon sessions. He described law as a demanding course that requires discipline and extensive reading.

Ms. Zaam Ssali, SoL Principal Communication Officer, addressing students

During the event, the SoL Principal Communication Officer, Ms. Zaam Ssali introduced the students to Makerere University, highlighting that the institution celebrated a Centenary of existence in 2022 and its status as Uganda’s oldest university. She noted that Makerere’s School of Law, founded in 1968, is the oldest law school in the country. She urged the students to prepare diligently for the pre-entry examination to strengthen their chances of joining the School.

Career opportunities

Prof. Mbazira emphasized that studying law does not mean a person must practice the law in courts. Graduates may work in government, businesses, international organisations, non-government organisations, civil society, research and academia, advocacy, or policy-related roles. Those who wish to practice as advocates in court must complete the Bar Course at the Law Development Centre (LDC) and meet the requirements for enrolment.

He also noted that competition in the legal profession has increased as more universities train law graduates. However, he said that graduates who are adaptable and innovative can find opportunities beyond traditional law-firm practice.

Mpigi Secondary School Teachers during the career visit.

The courtroom and School of Law facilities

During the visit, students were shown the SoL’s moot courtroom. They learnt about the bench, where judges sit; the bar, where lawyers present cases; and the gallery, where members of the public sit. The professor explained that court hearings are generally open to the public, although proceedings may be restricted in certain sensitive cases like rape to protect those involved. The group was also told about available facilities and services at the School, including the Human Rights and Peace Centre, the Public Interest Law Clinic, seminar rooms, and the library.

Mr. Zekiel Ochieng, SoL Librarian addressing Students during a career visit.

During their tour of the SoL Library, the School Librarian, Mr. Zekiel Ochieng, shared information on how students can access the library’s resources, including textbooks, casebooks, law reports, newspapers, archives, and online databases. The Librarian also encouraged students to prepare thoroughly for the pre-entry examination. He also noted that registered students can access many electronic resources remotely using their university accounts.

Mr. Ariho Blair Simpson, second year LLB student at Makerere SoL, addressing students.

A second year LLB student, Mr. Ariho Blair Simpson, offered the visiting students a firsthand perspective on studying law. He highlighted the importance of attending classes, reading widely, analyzing and comparing cases, pursuing independent research, and participating in presentations. He also urged prospective students to prepare well for the pre-entry examination, establish effective study routines, and take advantage of the library’s resources.

Generally, the visit gave students a clearer understanding of the requirements of studying law, the importance of preparing for the pre-entry examination, and the range of careers available to law graduates.

Article By Kasemiire Mariam, IT Officer, School of Law