Kabale University is poised to make history by conferring its first-ever Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees at the upcoming graduation ceremony on Friday, October 25.
This landmark event, taking place on the university's premises, will see a total of 1,671 students graduate across various academic disciplines.
During a news briefing ahead of the ceremony, Prof Joy Kwesiga, the university’s vice-chancellor, hailed the occasion as a significant milestone for the institution.
"Kabale University has come a long way," Prof Kwesiga remarked, noting that when the university was private, it was only permitted to offer master's programs.
Now, as a public university, it has expanded its academic reach to include PhD programs, marking a new chapter in its growth.
Prof Kwesiga highlighted that this transition has enhanced the university's capacity to attract esteemed academic professionals, a development supported by the Ugandan government.
She expressed pride in the university's evolution into a hub of higher learning capable of producing graduates at the highest academic levels.
The pioneer PhD graduates, Caroline Murezi and Dr Paul Turyaheebwa, will receive their degrees in Business Administration—Murezi in Entrepreneurship and Turyaheebwa in Finance and Accounting. Both scholars are viewed as trailblazers, leading the university's new wave of academic excellence.
Reflecting on her achievement, Caroline Murezi shared that her decision to pursue a PhD was largely influenced by Kabale University's transformation from a private to a public institution.
"The university’s evolving standards motivated me to rise to the challenge and further my education," she said.
Dr Paul Turyaheebwa seized the opportunity to advocate for greater awareness of tax regulations, encouraging the Ugandan government to launch comprehensive campaigns so taxpayers can better understand their rights and obligations.
He suggested that simplifying tax regulations could enhance compliance, ultimately boosting government revenue.
As Kabale University prepares to celebrate this historic graduation, it stands ready to continue its upward trajectory, empowering students with advanced academic opportunities and contributing to Uganda’s national development.