23-year-old Ssebaggala Stuart scored a CGPA of 4.66 to emerge the best student in the Bachelor of Community Psychology programme of Makerere University. Ssebaggala is grateful to his family, lecturers and friends but above all God who made it possible for them to contribute to his success. Having studied Geography, History, Luganda and ICT at A’ Level, Ssebaggala drew inspiration to study Psychology from the desire to understand how
a human mind operates, a factor that would enable him relate well with all categories of people but also contribute to solutions to the numerous social challenges affecting humanity. Although he wished to study Law or at least business courses, Ssebaggala does not regret studying Community Psychology. He says the knowledge and skills acquired through the programme expose students to a broad range of employment opportunities.
Attaining a First Class degree is no mean achievement for Ssebaggala. He views his success as a firm foundation for him to pursue further studies and establish himself as a prolific academic and researcher in the field of Mental Health.
As soon as he graduates in May 2021, Ssebaggala hopes to enroll for further studies. He plans to enroll for a Masters and later a PhD in Clinical and Neuro Psychology and wishes to have attained his doctorate by the age of 30.
His view on phasing out the programme at undergraduate level at Makerere
Although Community Psychology is one of the programmes listed for phasing out starting next Academic Year (2021/2022), Ssebaggala is not bothered by the decision. He believes Psychology is an internationally recognized and respected programme with great potential to transform the world.