Uganda Christian University (UCU) Mbale Campus has passed out 580 graduates at its 26th Graduation Ceremony (Part 3), a lively celebration marked by tough conversations on integrity, courage, and leadership in a country battling moral decline.
The ceremony, held on Friday, brought together government officials, church leaders, university administrators, parents, and students in a day that blended pomp with heavy reminders about the growing damage of corruption and moral compromise.
Justice Bamugemereire Calls Out Corruption and Shortcuts
Supreme Court Judge Justice Catherine Bamugemereire, who presided as Chief Guest, delivered a stirring message urging graduates to build their careers on honesty and hard work, not shortcuts.
She warned against the rising culture of instant wealth, workplace misconduct, and sexual harassment, calling on the new graduates to stand firm in environments where ethical leadership is often tested.
Justice Bamugemereire also encouraged young professionals to explore opportunities in Uganda’s evolving agricultural economy, pointing to coffee farming as a viable, long-term investment.
Chancellor Kaziimba Urges Graduates to Be Nation Builders
The University Chancellor, The Most Rev Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, praised UCU for maintaining strong academic and moral standards.
He challenged graduates to be ambassadors of peace and justice, reminding them that every new beginning is a God-given opportunity to serve and excel.
Rt. Rev. Samuel George Bogere Egesa, Bishop of Bukedi Diocese and Chairperson of the College Governing Council, announced the launch of the East African Project on Sustainable Development, which begins in January 2026.
The initiative will expand hands-on learning across disciplines through internships, real-world community projects, and multi-sector collaborations intended to strengthen employability and practical problem solving.
Representing Vice Chancellor Prof Aaron Mushengyezi, Deputy Vice Chancellor Rev Prof John Kitayimbwa said UCU remains committed to academic excellence and research advancement.
He noted that several staff members are currently pursuing advanced degrees both locally and abroad, strengthening the university’s teaching capacity.
Mbale Campus Principal Vincent Kisenyi highlighted the university’s rising profile, including recognition as the 7th most beautiful campus in Africa by Time Magazine.
He reported that the graduating class comprised 291 male (51 percent) and 289 female (49 percent) students, with seven earning First Class degrees.
Top Performers Recognised
The overall best student was Masette Elsie Wokuri, who completed a Bachelor of Public Health and Social Administration with a CGPA of 4.68.
The best male graduate, Abdul Nasser Majid Majete, finished a Bachelor of Business Administration with a CGPA of 4.62.
Sports Champions Lauded
The ceremony also spotlighted the campus’s dominance in sports.
The men’s rugby team won the Jinja 7s trophy in July.
The women’s rugby team topped the Uganda Women’s Rugby Sevens.
The men’s rugby 19s team secured the Pefer Africa 19s tournament title for the fourth time since 2021.
Volleyball and football teams performed strongly in regional competitions.
Ms Maida Nambozo was recognised as one of the best defenders in the 2025 National Games.
Campus Infrastructure Expands
Kisenyi revealed ongoing renovations of student hostels and the completion of a modern science laboratory, which will support new programs such as the Bachelor of Science in Education.
A Call to Live Out Faith, Integrity, Excellence
Leaders closed the ceremony by urging graduates to embrace their responsibilities as UCU ambassadors, guided by the university’s identity: Faith, Integrity, and Excellence.
They encouraged them to enter the job market as professionals ready to serve their communities with purpose, skill, and unwavering ethical conviction.
