Archbishop Kazimba Hails Uganda Christian University Transformation Initiatives As 1,165 Graduate
Drake Nyamugabwa
Mukono: On Friday 25th October 2024, Uganda Christian University (UCU) held the second session of its 25th graduation ceremony today, awarding degrees, diplomas, and certificates to 1,165 graduands, of whom 625 were female and 540 males, with 60 achieving First Class Honors.
The graduation ceremony took place at the University Main Campus in Mukono and was presided over by the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda and UCU Chancellor, The Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu. Mr. Graham Yoko, the CEO of Accelerated Education Enterprises, served as the Chief Guest.
Archbishop Kaziimba commended the University administration, led by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, for their commitment to educational excellence and campus transformation initiatives.
“You have continued to uphold and improve the academic standards of Uganda Christian University. UCU is the coolest, most innovative, dust-free, paperless, and disciplined university in Africa," Archbishop Kaziimba said.
He applauded churches for their active participation in UCU Sunday, emphasizing that this year’s contributions will fund several key projects, including tuition support for children of clergy, development programs for clergy, and campus infrastructure improvements.
He also called upon the government to fulfill President Museveni’s promise to tarmac Bishop Tucker Road, which he emphasized is vital for enhancing accessibility to the campus.
Archbishop Kaziimba encouraged parents, educators, and church leaders to invest in nurturing positive role models for boys to help them develop values such as respect, responsibility, and resilience.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, noted that UCU is undergoing a seven-year Campus Transformation Initiative, which aims to establish a clean, green, and technologically advanced environment.
"As part of our continued effort to build a world-class university, we launched a seven-year Campus Transformation Initiative, whose fruits are already evident on the campus. Our five-point plan for the initiative includes digitized campus services, refurbished facilities, remodeled walkways and roads, a landscaped, green, and clean campus, and a trained, equipped, and motivated team to lead the transformation," Prof. Mushengyezi said.
He announced new partnerships, innovations, and scholarship opportunities, revealing that UCU’s fundraising initiatives have so far supported 107 students with financial needs.
"In line with promoting entrepreneurship, UCU has partnered with Hanze University to build a Business Innovation Hub, designed to equip students with skills for job creation and economic growth," Prof. Mushengyezi added.
The Chief Guest, Mr. Graham Yoko, challenged the graduates to embrace their unique purpose, reminding them of Ephesians 2:10: “We are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works.”
He encouraged the graduates to be a “light in the world” and stand firm in their faith, regardless of societal challenges. “The world needs your light more than ever,” Yoko said, emphasizing the importance of reflecting Christ’s love and truth in all aspects of life.
He urged the graduates to adopt a mindset of resilience and faith as they enter the next phase of life. “Remember that setbacks and disappointments are part of the journey, but God is faithful. Don’t just be crazy, but be MAD (Make A Difference),” he added.
Bishop Prof. Alfred Olwa, the Chairperson of the University Council, commended Uganda Christian University’s unwavering commitment to holistic education.
He acknowledged the university’s progress in nurturing students who excel academically and embody ethical leadership and Christian values. He reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to supporting UCU’s vision of producing graduates who are not only skilled but also driven to make a positive impact in their communities and nation.
Christy Asiimwe emerged as the overall best student with a CGPA of 4.80, and Nuwaine Dismas, the best male student, with a CGPA of 4.79.
Bishop Elisha Kamani of South Sudan and Rev. Wonyaka Alfred graduated with a PhD in Theology while Musiimenta Annet and Rev Fr. Ssebyanzi Bonaventure graduated with a PhD in Education Administration and Management.
During the ceremony, Mr. Graham Yoko and Archbishop Kaziimba exchanged copies of the signed Memorandum ot Understanding between UCU and Accelerated Education Enterprises.
