UCU holds 25th graduation, urges mentorship and servant leadership

26 October 2024, 10:18 am

By Ronald Ssemagonja

Uganda Christian University (UCU), yesterday held its 25th second part of graduation ceremony at the main campus in Mukono district.

According to the Vice-Chancellor, a total of 1,165 students graduated from various disciplines, of whom 625 are female and 540 are male. This graduation ceremony was held under the theme, “Hidden Curriculum: Inescapable Biases in the Education Curricula.” Uganda Christian University (UCU) is the first private university to be chartered by the government of Uganda.

The Chancellor of the university, the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Reverend Doctor Kazimba Mugalu Mboowa, congratulated the Vice-Chancellor, Mr. Aaron Mushengyenzi, and his team for their continued commitment to upholding the standards of excellence at UCU. “Your leadership has been instrumental in advancing the mission and vision of the university; for that, we are truly grateful,” he said.

The Archbishop also expressed his appreciation for Mr. Mushengyenzi’s remarkable efforts in transforming Uganda Christian University. Additionally, the Chancellor appealed to the government of Uganda to fulfil the President’s pledge to tarmac Bishop Tucker Road. “This development is not only necessary for improving access but is also crucial to the continued growth of the university,” he confirmed.

Regarding the ongoing gender-based violence in some parts of the country and the world at large, the Archbishop expressed concern over raising boys in a Godly manner. “I appeal to all of you to pay attention to the boy child. Mentorship of the boy child is vital in this society, where many boys grow up without strong positive role models to guide them. The boy child faces many challenges, including shifting gender dynamics and the impact of technology and media. Without proper mentorship, the risk of growing up without a clear sense of direction increases, leading to issues such as school dropouts, substance abuse, and negative behaviours. He added that girls who are well-mentored may end up marrying boys who have not been mentored properly, which could lead to gender-based violence.”

In conclusion, the Chancellor congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to aspire to be servant leaders. “As you step out into the world, remember to be humble despite your academic excellence. Humility is not self-degradation but a source of power,” he said. The Archbishop thanked parents and guardians for the sacrifices they made to ensure that their sons and daughters successfully completed their studies. He wished them all the blessings of Almighty God.

The chief guest, the Chief Executive Officer of Accelerated Education Enterprises, Mr. Graham Yoko, thanked the university leadership for ensuring that UCU remains a God-fearing institution. He also urged the graduates to always remember their role is to serve. “Serve in humility and serve with a heart of Christ,” he said. The Chairperson of the Governing Council, Professor Alfred Olwa, appealed to those graduating to carry a deep sense of purpose and seek God’s wisdom.

Nuwaine Dismas was the overall best-performing student. “I have been honoured with the coveted award of best overall performing male student. It’s humbling, emotional, and exciting. I bless the Lord for this prestigious honour,” he said. He completed a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication. Students thanked God and their families for supporting them throughout their educational journey. According to Professor Kitayimbwa, all 60 first-class graduates were once leaders in the guild council.