KAMPALA —A student of Makerere University drowned on the university’s swimming pool on Sunday evening.
According to reports, James Uwmpuhwe, a Rwandan national died late-evening at the University Swimming Pool near Guild Canteen when he got into difficulties.
Makerere University Vice Chancellor Barnabas Nawangwe confirmed Uwimpuhwe’s death, describing the incident as shocking news.
“I have received with much shock news of the death of James Uwimpuhwe, a second year Arts student who has drowned in the University swimming pool this evening,” he said in a Facebook post.
Although reports indicate that James had no known experience in swimming, he jumped in the water and could not get out.
Reports add that friends shouted when he did not resurface after jumping into the pool.
Prof Nawangwe quoting Swimming Pool management, said the deceased got stuck while attempting under-water Swimming.
“Life savers on duty rushed to his rescue, offered Cardiopulmonary resuscitation and other first aid but he died on the way to hospital,” he wrote.
According reports, James was pulled out of the water and rushed to Abii Clinic in Wandageya.
However, he was pronounced dead on arrival.
“So sad Indeed?! I witnessed him being carried to Abii Clinic where I was this evening by MAK [Makerere] students in swimming attires. So sad that the doctors couldn’t help despite their struggles. RIP James!” his friend posted in a class WhatsApp group.
James has been an Arts and Arts student at the university in his second year.
Last year, another student at the same University drowned.
John Paul Mirimu, a student of Information Systems and resident of Nsibirwa Hall died on arrival at Mulago Hospital.
Police then said the student died immediately after they reached Mulago Hospital’s emergency unit where he had been rushed for help.