Uganda Christian University (UCU) Mbale Campus celebrated the achievements of 580 students during its 26th Graduation Ceremony (Part 3), a vibrant event underscored by calls for integrity, courage, and value-driven leadership amid growing concerns over corruption and moral decline.
Presiding as Chief Guest, Supreme Court Judge Justice Catherine Bamugemereire delivered a keynote address urging graduands to uphold ethical leadership and reject shortcuts that compromise character and professional credibility.
She condemned workplace malpractices, including sexual harassment, and emphasized the need for graduates to embrace hard work over instant wealth, highlighting coffee farming as a promising sector within Uganda’s evolving agricultural economy.
The University Chancellor, The Most Rev Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, praised the institution for maintaining its reputation for academic rigor and moral formation.
He encouraged graduands to become ambassadors of peace, justice, and reconciliation, reminding them to approach new beginnings as divine opportunities to excel and serve society.
Rt. Rev. Samuel George Bogere Egesa, Bishop of Bukedi Diocese and Chairperson of the College Governing Council, announced a major institutional milestone: the East African Project on Sustainable Development, set to roll out in January 2026.
The initiative will expand practical student training through internships, hands-on projects, and interdisciplinary real-world experiences, aimed at strengthening graduates’ professional readiness.
Representing Vice Chancellor Prof Aaron Mushengyezi, Deputy Vice Chancellor Rev Prof John Kitayimbwa reaffirmed UCU’s commitment to academic excellence, research advancement, and staff development.
He noted that numerous faculty members are pursuing advanced degrees locally and internationally, enhancing the university’s capacity to deliver high-quality education.
UCU Mbale has also gained continental recognition, including being named the 7th most beautiful campus in Africa by Time Magazine.
Mbale Principal Vincent Kisenyi reported that the Class of 2025 comprised 291 male students (51%) and 289 female students (49%), with seven students earning First Class degrees.
Masette Elsie Wokuri, a Bachelor of Public Health and Social Administration graduate, was named overall best student with a CGPA of 4.68, while Abdul Nasser Majid Majete, completing a Bachelor of Business Administration, emerged as best male graduate with a CGPA of 4.62.
The ceremony also celebrated UCU Mbale’s sports achievements. The men’s rugby team won the Jinja 7s trophy in July, while the women’s rugby team dominated 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 also performed strongly in regional competitions, with Ms Maida Nambozo recognised among the best defenders in the 2025 National Games.
Kisenyi highlighted ongoing infrastructure improvements, including renovations of student hostels and the completion of a modern science laboratory supporting new programs such as the Bachelor of Science in Education.
The graduation concluded with a collective message urging students to embrace their responsibilities as UCU graduates, carrying forward the institution’s identity of Faith, Integrity, and Excellence.
University leaders encouraged them to serve their communities with professionalism, purpose, and dedication.
