In a powerful display of determination and lifelong learning, 75-year-old Betty Irumba, a widow and mother of three, graduated with a Master’s Degree in Public Health from Kampala International University (KIU) during its 31st graduation ceremony held on Saturday 26th July 2025 at the Western Campus in Ishaka.
Irumba, who hails from Hoima District, drew admiration and praise from the university community and beyond for her unwavering commitment to education despite her advanced age and personal challenges.
“I am 75 plus years old, a widow with three children,” she said in an emotional interview. “I just completed the Master’s in Public Health program, which I found very interesting, especially because I have spent most of my life working with women’s organizations.”
Having previously earned a Higher Diploma from KyambogoUniversity and a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Irumbareturned to the classroom to pursue a graduate degree in a field she believes is crucial for empowering communities especially women.
“I chose KIU because it was near my workplace and offered a weekend program that I could manage while working,” she explained.
Her academic journey, however, was not without hardships. Financial constraints posed a serious hurdle, as she relied on her salary to pay tuition. The situation worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic when she contracted the virus and nearly lost her life. “It was serious with me, but God helped me through,” she said, crediting her sons and sisters for supporting her recovery.
Despite these setbacks, Irumba pressed on with her studies. Her graduation on July 26 marked not only a personal milestone but also a historic moment for KIU’s Western Campus, where she becomes one of the oldest graduates to date.
“I am very excited and grateful to God. This is my first time here at this campus for graduation, and I’m happy to be among the pioneers to graduate from this place,” she said with pride.
University officials, including the Vice Chancellor, Dr. Eric Mabonga, celebrated her achievement. “This year we have a 75-year-old widow and mother of three, Miss Betty Irumba, graduating with a Master’s in Public Health. We congratulate her and the many others graduating,” he said during the ceremony.
Her story has since gone viral, inspiring many across the country and reigniting conversations around lifelong education, gender equity, and community health.
As she joins hundreds of other graduates, Betty Irumba leaves behind a legacy of perseverance and hope a reminder that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams.
