By Jay Star

KAMPALA — In a landmark move, the Teso Students Development Association (TESDA), a non-profit and non-partisan organization formed in the late 1980s to unite Iteso students in Uganda, has amended its constitution to enhance its governance and operational efficiency. This milestone was announced by TESDA’s National Chairperson, Mr. Esenyu Michael, during a press conference on Saturday, December 18, 2024, at the TESDA offices on Martyrs Way, Ntinda.  

The revised constitution follows a resolution by the National General Assembly, held at St. Kizito Technical Institute, Soroti, in December 2022. Two years later, on December 31, 2024, the amended constitution was officially launched at the same venue, in the presence of notable leaders, including the Minister of Teso Affairs, Hon. Ongalo Obote.  

TESDA's decision to amend its constitution was driven by the need for a clearer and more effective organizational structure. According to Mr. Esenyu, the previous constitution lacked clarity, which hindered the association’s ability to operate optimally. The National Executive Committee (NEC) was tasked with reviewing the document, leading to the formation of a Constitution Review Committee.  

Headed by Counsel Moritz Magal, a former TESDA executive member at Makerere University in 1993, the committee comprised five members: Mr. Omuron Isaac (Kampala International University), Mr. Opolot Simon (former TESDA chairman, Kyambogo University), Mr. Ongaba Paul (Uganda Christian University, Mukono), Mr. Esenyu Michael (MUBS Jinja), and Madam Brendafasi (Makerere University). This team worked tirelessly to develop a constitution tailored to the association’s current needs and future goals.  

The revised constitution introduces a comprehensive organizational structure aimed at improving governance and accountability. The structure includes:  

- National General Assembly : The supreme decision-making authority.  

- Board of Trustees : A body connecting TESDA to corporate partners.  

- Electoral Commission : Tasked with organizing transparent elections.  

- National Executive Committee : The operational arm of TESDA.  

- Secretariat : Responsible for administrative functions.  

- Regional Executive Committees : Coordinating TESDA activities at the regional level.  

- Branch Level: The foundational unit of the organization.  

One major change is the reduction of executive members at the branch level from 20 to 9, streamlining decision-making and fostering efficiency.  

The new constitution is a bold step towards reinforcing accountability and democratic principles within TESDA. The introduction of organs like the Electoral Commission ensures free and fair elections, while the Regional Executive Committees will bridge the gap between the national leadership and grassroots members.  

Mr. Esenyu emphasized the importance of these changes, saying, “This amended constitution gives us a strong foundation to operate more effectively, serve our members better, and achieve our objectives as an organization.”  

Copies of the amended constitution have already been distributed to institutions that met their financial obligations to support the production process. Mr. Esenyu urged remaining institutions to do the same to ensure widespread access to the revised document.  

"I encourage all TESDA chairpersons to secure copies of the amended constitution for their branches. This document is essential for guiding our operations and ensuring we uphold our shared vision," he remarked.  

The amendment of the TESDA constitution marks a new chapter in the organization’s journey. By addressing structural gaps and promoting transparency, the revised constitution positions TESDA to make an even greater impact in the lives of its members and the wider community.  

This milestone reflects TESDA’s commitment to growth, accountability, and the empowerment of Iteso students across Uganda. With a robust governance framework now in place, TESDA is poised to tackle new challenges and seize opportunities to enhance its contributions to society.  

As TESDA continues to grow, this amended constitution serves as both a guiding compass and a testament to the association’s enduring dedication to its mission and members.