The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda and Chancellor of Uganda Christian University (UCU), Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, has called on graduates to embrace peacebuilding, integrity, and servant leadership as they transition into the workforce.
He made the remarks while presiding over the 26th Graduation Ceremony (Part 3) of UCU, held at Bishop Barham University College (BBUC) in Kabale.
The ceremony, graced by Guest of Honour Eng. Reuben Tumwebaze Byaruhanga, Managing Director of Uganda Clays Limited, saw 353 students graduate across Masters, Bachelor’s, and Diploma programs, including 228 males (65%) and 125 females (35%).
During the event, the late Rt. Rev. Dr. George William Tibeesigwa, former Bishop of Ankole Diocese and the first Principal of BBUC, was honoured posthumously for his visionary leadership, integrity, and commitment to excellence.
Speaking against the backdrop of Uganda’s upcoming elections, Archbishop Kaziimba urged graduates to serve as ambassadors of peace, justice, and reconciliation.
He encouraged them to “speak words that heal, not divide” and to foster unity rather than hatred. Drawing inspiration from Nehemiah 2:20, he advised graduates to approach their future with resilience, courage, and a commitment to rebuilding their communities.
“Like Nehemiah, you have built something meaningful, brick by brick, through prayer, discipline, and resilience. May that same spirit propel you as you step into your next chapter to rebuild communities, restore hope, and lead with integrity,” he said.
The Chief Guest, Eng. Tumwebaze, urged graduates to embrace innovation in a rapidly changing world. He highlighted the importance of carbon intelligence, virtual intelligence, and artificial intelligence proficiency, emphasizing critical thinking, ethical conduct, and gender equality in professional environments.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Canon Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Rev. Prof. John Kitayimbwa, underscored UCU’s commitment to research and capacity development.
He highlighted recent awards for outstanding research and celebrated the University Transformation Initiative, which has made UCU and its colleges dustless, paperless, and environmentally friendly.
The Bishop of Kigezi Diocese, Rt. Rev. Gaddie Akanjuna, who chairs the University College Governing Council, reminded graduates to uphold integrity, humility, servant leadership, and excellence. He encouraged them to be role models and embrace humble beginnings, noting that great achievements often start small.
Dr. Alice Tumwesigye, BBUC Principal, reaffirmed the college’s dedication to academic excellence and producing spiritually grounded graduates.
She praised the campus as environmentally friendly and highlighted the university’s advancements in science education.
The Provincial Secretary of the Church of Uganda, Rev. Canon William Ongeng, who also serves on the UCU University Council, attended the graduation ceremony, further reinforcing the university’s commitment to leadership, scholarship, and service.