KABALE, Uganda: The Kabale University community is in mourning following the death of Apolot Maureen Gloria, a 30-year-old final-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, who passed away on Thursday morning, just days before her scheduled graduation.
Apolot, a daughter to Wilbert Ikilai and Sarah Apiny of Damasiko village, Gweri County in Soroti District, was set to graduate on October 31, 2025. Her untimely death has sent shockwaves across the university community and her home district.
According to her sister, Mercy Acheng, Apolot succumbed to complications arising from tuberculosis that advanced into meningitis without clear clinical signs while receiving treatment at Mbale Regional Referral Hospital.
Her class coordinator, Kabahinda Shanitah, confirmed receiving the devastating news from the deceased’s sister at around 6:30 a.m. She described Apolot as a humble, disciplined, and sociable student who was passionate about her studies and always envisioned a bright future.
“She was focused, hardworking, and determined to excel. Her death is a huge loss to our class and the university at large,” Kabahinda said.
Apolot’s burial has been scheduled for Sunday, October 19, 2025, at her ancestral home in Soroti District.
In a condolence statement, Kabale University described Apolot as a committed student whose death has left a deep void in the institution.
“The Kabale University community mourns the untimely passing of Ms. Apolot Maureen Gloria, a brilliant and dedicated student. Her dreams and aspirations were cut short too soon,” the statement read.
Her death adds to a series of tragedies that have recently struck Kabale University. Earlier this year, first-year agriculture student Christmas Aron was found dead at Ngorongosa Pond in Manjari, Southern Division, Kabale Municipality.
In July 2025, Victor Mugarura, a 22-year-old first-year student, reportedly took his own life over academic pressures related to tuition arrears. In 2024, final-year education students Methodius Niwamanya and Osbert Natuhwera also died in a motorcycle crash just weeks before their graduation, alongside Byaruhanga Merekezedeki, another student.
The string of deaths has raised concern among staff and students, prompting calls for stronger mental health and wellness support across the institution.
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