Makerere University, Uganda's premier institution, is grappling with a significant dropout crisis, with sports betting emerging as a primary culprit. According to Prof Barnabas Nawangwe, the university vice chancellor, approximately 1,000 students leave the university annually due to financial losses incurred through sports betting.
Speaking during the recognition ceremony for the 12 best-performing graduates of 2024 at the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Prof Nawangwe highlighted the alarming findings of a research study on the causes of student dropout rates. He emphasized that sports betting has become a pervasive issue leading to financial ruin for many students.
However, Robert Maseruka, the 89th Makerere University Guild President, argued that while sports betting contributes to dropout rates, it is not the sole reason. Maseruka cited challenges such as the inability to meet tuition fees requirements as another significant factor.
Contrary to Maseruka's stance, Prof Nawangwe asserted that investigations indicated students often had the necessary fees provided by their parents but opted to invest in betting for potential high returns. This assertion was supported by accounts from students like Wasswa, a former sports betting enthusiast who shared his harrowing experience.
Wasswa recounted how he became entangled in sports betting, leading to a devastating loss of funds intended for a household purchase. His story is echoed by others like Aggrey Bazirake, who disclosed instances of peers resorting to risky investment schemes, ultimately jeopardizing their academic pursuits.
Despite the university's efforts to combat underage gambling, betting companies have continued to operate, albeit under legal regulations stipulated by the Lotteries and Gaming Act of 2016. Companies like Fortebet and Champion Bet have implemented measures to verify the age of their clients, as mandated by law.
While some students, like Ivan Sseremba, view betting as a means of survival on campus, others caution against its pitfalls. Prince Taremwa, a Guild Representative Council member, advocates for responsible betting, urging students to wager only what they can afford to lose.
In response to the prevailing crisis, student leaders are calling for heightened awareness and financial literacy initiatives to educate students on prudent money management. Justus Collin Waliggo, a finance secretary, echoed concerns over the lavish spending habits of some students who win bets, emphasizing the need for a more responsible approach to gambling.
As Makerere University grapples with the adverse effects of sports betting on its student body, stakeholders are urged to collaborate in implementing holistic solutions to address the underlying issues driving dropout rates. Only through concerted efforts can the university mitigate the detrimental impact of gambling and ensure the academic success of its students.
