Universities Put Under Spotlight as Uganda Steps Up HIV Prevention Drive Ahead of 2030

Kampala, Uganda, July 14, 2026 - Universities are facing renewed scrutiny over their role in preventing HIV infections among young people as Uganda intensifies efforts to end HIV/AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. With five years remaining to meet the national target, health officials have urged higher education institutions to strengthen student-focused HIV prevention programmes, warning that young people remain vulnerable due to risky sexual behaviour, limited access to prevention services, and gaps in awareness. A major concern raised by health authorities is whether universities are complying with the national HIV policy requirement to allocate 0.1 percent of their budgets towards HIV prevention initiatives targeting students, staff, and surrounding communities. Health officials say institutions that fail to provide funding for HIV programmes are not fully implementing national guidelines. At Kyambogo University, student leaders said the institution has introduced initiatives including medical camps offering HIV testing services and distributing preventive materials. Kyambogo University Guild President Edward Agaba acknowledged that while prevention efforts are ongoing, some students continue to engage in behaviours that increase their risk of infection. He encouraged students to practise safer sexual behaviours and regularly know their HIV status. At Makerere University, student leaders said they are working with the university hospital to expand HIV awareness campaigns, including plans for a health week offering free testing services and prevention materials. Makerere University Guild Health Minister Ebenezer Wamezaya said the institution is also promoting peer education programmes to encourage open discussions on sexual and reproductive health among students. Health organisations have also increased engagement with young people through awareness campaigns and youth-led platforms. The Executive Director of Reproductive Health Uganda, Jackson Chekweko, said involving young people directly in HIV prevention discussions is essential for improving access to accurate information and changing behaviours. He said youth-led platforms, including online health programmes and inter-university dialogues, provide spaces where students can openly discuss sexual and reproductive health challenges. The Uganda AIDS Commission has called on universities to take greater responsibility by establishing effective prevention programmes before seeking external support. Dr Daniel Byamukama, Head of HIV Prevention at the commission, said institutions must first put in place measures that educate students about HIV prevention and encourage responsible choices. A 2024 Uganda AIDS Commission report indicated that more than 5,000 new HIV infections occurred among young people aged between 15 and 24 years. Byamukama said the commission remains ready to support universities but stressed that institutions must comply with national requirements, including allocating resources for HIV prevention activities. As Uganda approaches its 2030 HIV elimination target, health experts say sustained prevention efforts among university students will be critical in reducing new infections and HIV-related deaths. They are urging young people to take greater responsibility for their health by knowing their HIV status, practising safer sex, or choosing abstinence.