Kampala | The air was filled with excitement and ambition as a group of vibrant journalism and mass communication students from All Saints University Lango (ASUL) arrived at the iconic Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC) for a field study tour.
Guided by their ever-passionate lecturer, Musafiri Suwed, the visit to UBC TV and Radio marked a significant milestone in their academic journey, a practical encounter with the heartbeat of Uganda’s media industry.
Musafiri, known for his hands-on approach to teaching, explained that the objective of the visit was to bridge the gap between theory and practice.
“As a lecturer, my role extends beyond the four walls of a classroom. I want my students to experience the field, see how a newsroom operates, how stories are pitched, edited, and broadcasted. Being at UBC, the national broadcaster, gives them a sense of what it takes to serve the public responsibly,” he said.
The visit began with a guided tour of the UBC newsroom, production control rooms, and studio sets, offering students an up-close view of live news coordination, radio hosting, and technical operations.
Students marveled at the synchronization required to put together a single news bulletin from field reporting to editing, scripting, and going live.
Among the mentors who addressed the aspiring journalists was legendary broadcaster Henry Baguma, whose voice has echoed across Ugandan airwaves for decades.
With a commanding tone and a warm smile, Baguma reminded students of the weight and responsibility that come with holding the mic or pen.
“As you prepare to enter this space, remember that we are not just content creators; we are custodians of truth. The times we are entering, especially during an election season, demand that we be objective, accurate, ethical, and trustworthy. No story is worth your life. Know your limits and draw your lines,” Baguma advised.
Baguma also emphasized the importance of motivation in journalism.
“Know what drives you. If you write only when you’re pushed, you will never last in this industry. Be inspired by the need to inform and transform society. That’s how you grow and remain relevant,” he added.
Later in the day, students also engaged with Peter Otai, a celebrated UBC sports commentator known for his energetic delivery and deep insights.
Otai encouraged the students to embrace a learner’s mindset especially with the digital media.
“The media landscape is always changing. To survive and excel, you must stay hungry for knowledge. Be self-driven, because no one will follow up on you to succeed; it’s your responsibility,” Otai said.
Otai’s advice struck a chord with many, including Nancy Atim Lapul, a third-year student, who found the tour not only enlightening but also a confidence booster.
“Seeing professionals like Mr. Baguma and Mr. Otai speak with so much passion reminded me why I chose journalism. I want to be a voice that matters in my community. The microphone awaits us,” she said.
For Atim, it was also the ethical conversations that stood out. “When Mr. Baguma talked about ethics, I realized how easy it is to lose yourself chasing headlines. I want to be known for credible work not sensationalism,” she explained.
“Learning never ends. UBC taught me that our stories must not just inform, but also uplift and challenge the status quo,” she added.
Loyce Ajok, another female student, described walking into the UBC studios as “walking into a dream.” “I’ve always imagined being on air. Standing in the control room and watching a live broadcast made me realize that my dream is within reach. This visit was a turning point,” she shared.
Still sharing excitement and reflections, Joseph Okul, known among his peers for his inquisitive nature, noted the experience of seeing news production firsthand and said the tour gave him a better understanding of media dynamics.
“It’s one thing to write stories in class, but seeing how they’re edited and presented on national TV was mind-blowing. I now appreciate the behind-the-scenes effort more,” Okul said.
Okul, who wishes to specialize in video editing, was fascinated by the technical setups at UBC. “The studio is well-coordinated. I learned so much about camera placements, lighting, and live switching. This is what I want to do, and now I know I need to upgrade my skills.”
Sodrick Ogwang, who dreams of becoming a political correspondent, was particularly inspired by Baguma’s message.
“The elections are near, and as future reporters, we’re entering a dangerous but necessary phase. Mr. Baguma’s advice to always be ethical and prioritize our safety hit home. Journalism is powerful but life is precious.”
Ogwang also says with the coming of digital media, specialization is the way to go, urging fellows opting for media as a career to choose a right mentor to ensure career development.
“Media is about relationships. Talking to professionals here could open doors. Don’t shy away, introduce yourself, ask questions, and keep in touch,” he said.
For All Saints University Lango students, the visit to UBC was more than just a study tour; it was a glimpse into their future, a reminder of their purpose, and a promise of what awaits them if they remain committed to truth, integrity, and hard work.
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