Makerere Reviews Event Security After Freshers’ Ball Incident, Campus Social Events Suspended

Makerere University has initiated an immediate review of security and event management procedures for university-sanctioned social events following an incident at its 2026 Freshers’ Ball that sparked widespread debate on social media. In a statement issued on Tuesday, November 3, through the Office of the Dean of Students, the university expressed concern over the conduct of a former student during the event held on Saturday, October 31, at the university grounds. The incident attracted public attention after videos circulated online showing the woman undressing in front of attendees. The footage prompted criticism of the event’s management and renewed questions about how security and crowd control are handled at large university gatherings. Makerere clarified that the woman involved was a former student, rather than one of the newly admitted students attending the annual celebration. “The University wishes to clarify that it does not condone any conduct that undermines the values, principles and standards of behaviour expected of members of the University community,” the statement said.

University Moves to Reassess Event Management

According to the university, management has begun a comprehensive review of security arrangements and event management protocols for officially sanctioned social activities, with the aim of preventing similar incidents in the future. The university has not yet publicly detailed the specific measures under consideration or indicated when the review will be completed. The Freshers’ Ball traditionally welcomes new students into university life but also attracts alumni and members of the general public. This wider attendance presents additional responsibilities for organisers overseeing access, crowd management and security around performance areas. Following the incident, university management also announced the indefinite suspension of campus social events, including the Freshers’ Ball, Porridge Nights and bazaars, pending further developments. The decision could affect students, performers, event organisers and businesses that depend on campus entertainment activities. However, the university has not announced a timetable for lifting the suspension.

Family Appeals for Privacy

The university also acknowledged an appeal from the woman’s family asking members of the public to stop circulating videos and photographs of the incident. The appeal has added another dimension to the public discussion, highlighting the potential consequences of sharing sensitive footage of an individual without considering the harm it may cause. As debate continues online, students and other social media users are being urged to respect the family’s request and avoid further distributing the material.

What the Review Means for Campus Events

The incident has brought renewed attention to the balance universities must maintain between encouraging student social life and ensuring that gatherings are safe and properly managed. For student leaders and event organisers, the review could prompt closer scrutiny of security coordination, guest access, crowd control and the responsibilities of teams managing university-approved functions. These are possible areas of attention, not measures Makerere has formally confirmed. Campus events also provide important opportunities for student performers, creatives, vendors and businesses. Any prolonged suspension could therefore have implications beyond entertainment, particularly for those who rely on university gatherings to earn income and build professional networks. Makerere has reiterated its commitment to providing a safe, inclusive and dignified environment for students, staff, visitors and other stakeholders. For now, the university’s immediate response centres on reviewing its procedures. Further details about any new requirements, accountability measures or the resumption of campus social events remain pending.

Source: The Star — Makerere reviews security after Freshers’ Ball incident

Campus360 Editorial Note: This article does not reproduce the footage or identify the individual involved, in keeping with the family’s appeal for privacy.