Journalism students at Makerere University have increased their levels of concentration and seriousness ahead of end of semester examinations which commence on November 19.

Many of the students are now forming discussion groups, buying handouts and filling the library for revision. A number of them have been seen converged in corners busy reading.

The university examination final timetable was released last week indicating 19th November 2018 as the date on which the examinations will commence.

A number of students have explained how they are in preparation for their exams to the extent that they have postponed their other programmes including attending night clubs and parties, visiting friends, going to beaches and many others for the sake of passing exams.

Others have pointed out the fear for getting retakes as the reason they have chosen to devote some time to reading their notes and doing a lot of research.

Mutaawe Dan Bosco, a second year journalism student revealed that the fear of getting a retake is the main reason for his unusual concentration.

"What I fear most is getting a retake. If it was not that I would be reading normally," said Mutaawe.

According to Natasha Biira, a first year student, it is now that she has known the meaning of being a journalism student because the course is tough especially when one talks about a retake. She has decided to put aside her regular night clubs and parties so as to concentrate and pass exams.

"I have found campus a bit challenging unlike high school where I would go to a club and the next day I sit for a paper and pass. I have also decided to uninstall my WhatsApp from my phone because it consumes much of my time," she says.

Aijuka Ronald, also a journalism student, says handouts and notes have increased yet exams are so near. "I have to use the little time I am left with to visit the library and do more research, read the many handouts and notes because it is more conducive. I am working hard so as to increase my CGPA this semester." He said. CGPA is the cumulative grade point average which is arrived at by dividing the number of points earned in all courses attempted by the total degree-credit hours in all attempted courses.

Ssegirinya Cosmas, a second year journalism student, however, advised students that reading under pressure is not good. He added that students should always prepare in time, other than reading at the last minute because it contributes to failure.

According to the general university time table, Examinations end on the 8th December 2018.