Anselm Kizza Besigye, the son of Uganda’s prominent political figures Dr. Kizza Besigye and Winnie Byanyima, has embarked on a significant academic journey as he begins his PhD at Columbia University in New York. This marks another milestone in the life of the young scholar, who has already demonstrated exceptional academic prowess.
Winnie Byanyima, the Executive Director of UNAIDS and a former Member of Parliament, shared an emotional farewell on social media, bidding her son goodbye as he starts this new chapter. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), she wrote, “Last Supper! Saying bye to @akbesigye. He leaves to start his new chapter as a PhD student at Columbia University in NYC. Godspeed!”
The announcement was met with a flood of congratulatory messages and well-wishes from friends, family, and notable figures in Uganda and beyond. Balaam Barugahara, Uganda’s Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, was among those who extended their best wishes. He praised Anselm’s achievement, saying, “Wishing you a blessed journey, @akbesigye, as you embark on your PhD adventure at one of the best universities in the world. May your academic pursuits be fruitful, and your time in the city be enriching. Godspeed, young scholar! Make our country proud! Your success is for our country Uganda.”
Anselm’s acceptance into Columbia University, one of the prestigious Ivy League institutions, is a testament to his academic excellence. Back in April, Byanyima had proudly shared that her son secured a fully-funded PhD programme at Columbia, a rare and commendable achievement. In addition to Columbia, Anselm was also offered scholarships by other top-tier institutions, including the University of Oxford and the University of Chicago, underscoring his outstanding intellectual capabilities.
Founded in 1754, Columbia University is known for its rich history and contributions to higher education globally. Anselm’s enrollment at such a prestigious institution highlights his dedication to following in the footsteps of his accomplished parents, who have both made significant contributions in their respective fields.
As Anselm Kizza Besigye begins his PhD journey, his family, friends, and well-wishers are eager to see the heights he will reach, knowing that his success will resonate far beyond the borders of Uganda.
