Bishop Stuart University (BSU) in Mbarara City turned into a hub of music, football and campus fun over the weekend as Coca-Cola brought its Premier League experience to students during the university’s Freshers’ Ball.
The Saturday event, held under Coca-Cola’s “Essawa Yonna Kisoboka” campus campaign, treated students to live performances, English Premier League screenings, interactive games, ice-cold Coca-Cola drinks and merchandise giveaways.
Singer Kapeke headlined the entertainment, with DJs and MCs Belga and Kacheche keeping the crowd entertained throughout the event. Students also participated in games, including Matatu and Scrabble, while enjoying the football-themed experience and opportunities to win Coca-Cola-branded merchandise.
For many first-year students, the event offered more than just entertainment. It was a chance to unwind from academic routines, meet new people and build friendships as they settled into university life.
Crystal Elizabeth, a first-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Journalism and Media Studies, said the activities gave her a welcome break from her studies.
“The music and games, including Matatu and Scrabble, helped me relax and refresh my mind. It was a wonderful experience that gave me a chance to enjoy myself outside the classroom,” she said.
Her colleague, Joel Nuwarinda, also pursuing a Bachelor of Journalism and Media Studies, welcomed the initiative, saying it created an opportunity for students to connect beyond their lecture rooms.
“I appreciate Coca-Cola for bringing this exciting experience to BSU. It has given us an opportunity to enjoy ourselves, interact with other students and create good memories as we begin our university journey,” Nuwarinda said.
For Oris Niwamanya, a first-year Bachelor of Education in Primary student, the highlight was spending time with friends while participating in the various activities.
“The experience gave me an opportunity to connect with my friends and enjoy different activities together. The music and games made the event memorable, and I will cherish the moments we shared,” Niwamanya said.
Aaron Ariho, a first-year Bachelor of Education in Secondary student, credited the university administration for making the experience possible, noting that such activities help students build relationships outside the classroom.
Meanwhile, Mark Niwagaba, a first-year Journalism and Media Studies student, was among those excited to walk away with Coca-Cola merchandise.
“I was happy to win goodies such as Coca-Cola drinks and T-shirts. Beyond the prizes, the event gave me an opportunity to socialise with my fellow students and enjoy the entertainment,” he said.
Immaculate Amutuhaire, a first-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Procurement and Supply Chain Management, said the live performances helped make the Freshers’ Ball particularly memorable.
“The performances by Kapeke and the MCs made the experience exciting. It was an opportunity to enjoy live music, have fun with fellow students and create unforgettable memories at the university,” she said.
The Bishop Stuart University activation is part of Coca-Cola’s broader effort to connect with young consumers through experiences built around their interests, including football, music, entertainment, games and social interactions.
Through the “Essawa Yonna Kisoboka” campaign, Coca-Cola is bringing the brand closer to university students by creating spaces where they can enjoy the activities they love, share memorable moments and connect with friends over an ice-cold Coke.
At BSU, the Premier League experience added a vibrant touch to the Freshers’ Ball, giving new students another reason to celebrate the start of their university journey.
