FULL LIST! 49 Graduate with First Class Degrees at UCU

Uganda Christian University (UCU) is celebrating a landmark moment in its academic calendar with 49 students graduating with first class degrees during the first part of the university’s 26th graduation ceremony, held at its main campus in Mukono.

Among the 1,524 total graduates, the top honor goes to Timothy Kirabo, a Bachelor of Procurement and Logistics Management student, who achieved a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.96, making him the overall best student. Close behind was Diana Nansubuga, the best-performing female graduate, with a CGPA of 4.80 in Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.

Of the 49 first class graduates, 25 are male, reflecting a near gender balance in academic excellence. Women, however, made up the majority of the graduating class overall—56% of the 1,524 graduates were female.

Spotlight on First Class Graduates

The list of first-class achievers spans a wide range of disciplines, from education and ICT to business and theology. Standout names include:

The diversity of disciplines and strong performances highlight UCU’s commitment to academic rigor and support for student achievement.

A University in Transition

Speaking during the ceremony, Vice Chancellor Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi highlighted UCU’s ongoing transformation as it marks 28 years since its founding.

“We have grown through the ages and experiences. Ebenezer—thus far the Lord has brought us,” Mushengyezi said.

He pointed to progress in research, digital learning, infrastructure expansion, and the new medical school in Mengo. However, Mushengyezi also called on the Government to reduce tax burdens on private universities and allow them access to public research funding, arguing that private institutions are equally vital in delivering higher education.

Embracing Competency-Based Education

In response to national education reforms, UCU has phased out its old curriculum for teacher training and adopted a competency-based approach aligned with the Ministry of Education’s goals. This shift, effective from February, affects both primary and secondary education programs.

“Our training must prepare students to teach within a competency-based framework, so they can pass these methods on to their students,” said Rev. Dr. John Kitayimbwa, UCU’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academics.

To that end, UCU has launched new degree programs, including Bachelor of Primary Education and a revised Bachelor of Secondary Education, streamlining the path for Grade 3 teachers to earn full degrees in less time.

Beyond the School of Education, UCU is integrating personalized and practical learning across its faculties. According to Prof. Angella Napakol, Director of Academic Affairs, programs in ICT, journalism, and business are being overhauled to emphasize real-world skills and industry readiness.

The Church of Uganda, a key stakeholder in the university, praised UCU’s reforms. Rev. Dr. Paul Kakooza, Director of Education at the Church, said these steps will ensure a holistic, values-driven education that prepares students for both life and work.