Tag Archives: UCU Alumni

Hospital internship welcomes UCU graduate to the weight of being a doctor

May 19, 2025News, Students, UCU Alumni, UCU School of Medicine#News, #students, UCU Alumni, UCU School of MedicineEdwin Byarugaba

By Kefa Senoga
On the second day of her medical internship, Namayanja Christabel faced a test no textbook could have prepared her for. It was night shift. She was asked to confirm the death of a patient. The hospital was St. Francis Naggalama Hospital in Mukono.

“The child was just eight years old,” she recalls. “When I arrived, he was barely breathing. We tried resuscitation, but all efforts were futile, and he didn’t make it.”

It fell on Namayanja, a young and fresh intern, to deliver the devastating news to the grieving mother.

“I was hurting too, but I had to stay composed and professional,” she said. “That’s what this job demands of us.”

For Namayanja, this moment was a clear reminder of some of the weight of the career she had opted for – being the bearer of the sad news to relatives who are looking up to you with the hope of saving their loved one.

After completing the first half of her internship at the hospital, Namayanja says that she was transferred to Mulago National Referral Hospital for the final half, which she is set to complete by July 2025.

To practice medicine in Uganda, all medical graduates are required to undergo a one-year mandatory internship. It involves supervised medical work, where interns are deployed to train in hospitals under the supervision of senior doctors. However, due to the shortage of medical personnel, most of the government hospitals rely heavily on medical interns to attend to overwhelming numbers in medical facilities.

“The journey to practicing medicine has been long, filled with sacrifice and deep resolve,” Namayanja explains.

She studied at the Uganda Christian University (UCU) School of Medicine and graduated in July 2024.

“My parents always encouraged me to focus on science disciplines,” she says. “They saw this path even before I did.”

Namayanja’s parents – Christopher and Florence Bwanika – wanted her to pursue medicine. She says that they encouraged her to put emphasis on science subjects in secondary school in order to prepare her for this path. Namayanja studied at the Church-founded Gayaza High School, near Kampala.

She believes that the knowledge she acquires in medical training enables her to offer the first line of treatment to her close relatives. Despite the intensity of the work in the medical field, Namayanja says that she finds fulfillment in the everyday victories.

“The most rewarding moment is when a patient walks out of the hospital, and you remember how bad their condition was when they came in,” she said.

Namayanja has already completed rotations in several departments in her internship. She has handled minor surgeries, prescribed treatment plans and discharged patients after noticeable recovery. In essence, she notes that she has been actively practicing general medicine, applying what she learned in class to real-life patient care.

She highlights that the medical profession is like the military, noting that when she was still in medical school, she thought the intense schedules and tight deadlines were the toughest it could get, but once she stepped foot in the field, she realized it only gets more demanding.

A doctor’s work schedule doesn’t recognize weekends or public holidays. Any day can be a full working day – because people do not make appointments with sickness.

“We usually have a day off, the most you can have in a week is one day off,” Namayanja said. “On average, I work about 12 hours a day. It’s only during the occasional free moment that I get to catch up with family and friends.”.

Amid the medical grind, Namayanja keeps her eyes on the bigger picture. Beyond treating patients, she hopes to, one day, influence Uganda’s health policies.

“Working at Mulago Hospital has opened my eyes to how unequal access to quality care is,” she notes. “I don’t know how yet, but I want to be part of the solution, maybe through leadership, or another platform.”

She’s also set her sights beyond the hospital ward. “I want to improve my financial literacy. It’s something many medical professionals struggle with,” she said. “And in this digital era, I’m interested in AI and other technologies. The world is moving fast, and I want to stay equipped.”

Despite all the learning that happens on the job, Namayanja believes UCU’s training gave her a strong foundation.

“The lecturers really prepare you,” she said. “Everything I’m doing now, I was taught in class in one way or another. But nothing prepares you for the emotional reality of being in the ward. You learn that during your internship.”

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To support UCU programs, students, activities and services, go to www.ugandapartners.org and click on the “donate” button, or contact UCU Partners Executive Director, Mark Bartels, at m.t.bartels@ugandapartners.org.

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‘You can lead even outside your technical field’

May 14, 2025News, Students, UCU Alumni, UCU Bishop Barham University College, UCU School of Journalism, Media and Communication#News, #students, Bishop Barham University College, Journalism, public relations, UCU AlumniEdwin Byarugaba

Ronald Beinomugisha Katungi (left) with fellow leaders of the UCU Alumni Association and UCU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi (center)

By Kefa Senoga
When Ronald Beinomugisha Katungi began his journey in communication, he quickly felt at ease behind the microphone. As a student at the Uganda Christian University (UCU) Bishop Barham University College (BBUC) in Kabale, he became a well-known voice on the campus radio, where his shows were broadcast across the university. He says both students and staff enjoyed listening to him.

“Everyone thought I would end up as a journalist or a news anchor,” Beinomugisha recalls. “I was doing well on radio, and I also used to moderate and emcee at student events. It just seemed like the natural path.”

But his journey took a different direction – one that eventually led him into the center of Uganda’s public relations field.

Recently, Beinomugisha, the General Secretary of the UCU Alumni Association, was elected Vice President of the Public Relations Association of Uganda (PRAU), becoming the first UCU alumnus to be elected to such a position. PRAU is the umbrella body of all public relations professionals in Uganda.

Born in Bugongi, Kabale district, in southwestern Uganda, Beinomugisha is the fifth of seven children.

“I come from a humble background,” he says. “My parents – Fred and Sarah Katungi – taught us to rely on God and to work hard.”

Just months after graduation, Beinomugisha notes that he was called back to BBUC to serve as the university’s Public Relations Officer.

“That’s where my PR story really began,” he says.

Although journalism was his first love, Beinomugisha says he was drawn more to the broader field of public relations.

“I discovered that PR allowed me to tell stories, build reputations and influence institutions in ways that were meaningful and impactful,” he says.

According to Beinomugisha, he later served as an Assistant Lecturer in the Departments of Mass Communication and Social Sciences at BBUC, teaching communication skills for four years. In 2020, he moved to Victoria University as Head of Recruitment, a role that also involved communication duties due to the absence of a PR officer at the time. At Victoria University, he spearheaded national student recruitment campaigns, significantly boosting enrollment and forging key stakeholder relationships.

In 2022, Beinomugisha joined the Uganda Society of Architects as Executive Secretary and the chief executive, a position he held until 2024. At this organization, he directed organizational strategy, professional events and industry partnerships while strengthening stakeholder relations.

“That role taught me that with the right skills, you can lead even outside your technical field,” he says.

Now serving in PRAU leadership, Beinomugisha says he is committed to spreading the association’s presence beyond Kampala.

“Many activities have mainly happened in the city, but we want to start PRAU chapters in different parts of the country,” he explains.

Beinomugisha reveals that together with his colleagues at PRAU, there are plans of advocating a Public Relations Bill. Once it becomes law, it will weed out non-professionals who have infiltrated the field of PR.

“As PRAU Vice President, we want to guide young PR professionals and ensure that university curricula reflect industry needs,” he said. “It’s important that students graduate with market-relevant skills.”

Despite juggling several leadership roles and running his PR agency, Beinomugisha notes that he remains committed to his faith and family.

“I put everything I do in God’s hands,” he says. “And no matter how busy I am, I always make time for my wife and children, especially on weekends.”

His wife, Patience Beinomugisha, with whom he has three children, is his greatest supporter who “constantly motivates” him and serves as his “first source of inspiration.”

He completed his primary education at Kabale Parents School and later moved to Kabale Trinity College for his entire secondary education before enrolling at BBUC-UCU to study Mass Communication and Public Relations. He graduated in 2016, emerging the best student in his class.

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Law finalists from UCU selected for prestigious U.S. Leadership Program

May 7, 2025News, Students, UCU Alumni, UCU School of Law#News, #students, UCU Alumni, UCU Faculty of LawEdwin Byarugaba

By Kefa Senoga
Two law finalists from Uganda Christian University (UCU) have been selected to participate in the highly competitive Study of the U.S. Institutes (SUSIs) program. The selection of Agira Birungi, a former Guild President, and Namara Kezia, a former Guild Deputy Attorney, marks a milestone not just for their personal journeys but also for UCU’s growing engagement in global academic exchange.

The five-to-six-week academic program focuses on topics in U.S. studies for groups of foreign undergraduates, scholars and teachers. It is often hosted by universities and colleges throughout the United States. According to the program’s website, the study includes an intensive academic residency, an academic field experience to another region of the United States and opportunities for participants to engage with American peers. Institutes also include community service activities and leadership development.

Organized under the theme of Women’s Economic Empowerment, this year’s SUSI program will be hosted by the University of Delaware (Newark, DE) and will include intensive academic seminars, leadership training, cultural immersion and policy engagements, including a visit to the United Nations in New York. The program is slated to begin mid-June and run throughout July 2025.

“What captivated me was the theme,” said Namara. “It focused on women’s economic empowerment, something I’m quite passionate about.”

The opportunity to attend this program emerged during a session organized by UCU’s Directorate of Research, Partnerships, and Innovation (DRPI). The session featured Ezra Nuwenyine, the Education Outreach Coordinator from the U.S. Embassy in Kampala.

“He introduced us to various U.S. programs and encouraged us to stay alert for when the SUSI advert would be announced,” said Agira. “When it came through DRPI, many of us applied. The process was competitive.”

Over 12 UCU students were shortlisted for the interviews. The applicants went through a two-phase selection process of written applications followed by oral interviews before a diverse panel comprising representatives from the U.S. Embassy and UCU. This was in November last year.

“The oral interview was nerve-wracking,” says Namara. “That’s when the reality of the opportunity really hit.”

Agira says: “I read and prepared for that interview like it was an exam. After our second-last exam on April 14, I checked my email and saw the message ‘Congratulations!’ Namara had been copied in the same message. I was overjoyed and immediately called her to break the news.”

Namara said she was looking forward to having conversations with women from across the world. “This experience will change us,” she said. “I admire the American work ethic, and I’m eager to see what drives them.”

For Agira, her curiosity to experience a different type of climate had made her wish for a trip during winter. “I wanted to experience the snowstorms we see in movies. But even without the snow, this is still a dream.”

It will be the first time either of them will be traveling beyond Africa, Agira having previously visited Nigeria and for Namara, it was Tanzania. For Namara, the SUSI program is more than just a trip, it’s a stepping stone toward her long-term goals.

Namara says she wants to use her U.S. trip to explore possibilities of pursuing a master’s in the U.S. and build a community-based organization. This is a gateway for networking and personal growth,” she said

Agira adds that they carry more than personal dreams because they also carry the name of UCU.

“We are ambassadors of the university,” she said. “People will judge UCU by our values, conduct, and contribution. We’re going to showcase what UCU can offer the world.”

Namara echoed the resilience that’s brought her this far, stating: “This isn’t my first application. I have received many rejection emails, but I don’t give up. I keep going.”

Prof. Elizabeth Balyejusa Kizito, the Director of Research, Partnerships, and Innovation at UCU, expressed pride upon receiving the news.

“It means a lot for UCU,” she said. “These young women will interact with brilliant minds from across the world. I encourage them to network widely and lobby for graduate opportunities. They are our ambassadors.”

According to the SUSI program brief, the initiative, especially under the Albright Young Women Leaders Program, honors the legacy of Madeleine Albright, the first female U.S. Secretary of State.

With their eyes set on transformation, both Namara and Agira say they are ready to engage, learn, and return with new ideas and fresh vision not just for their future careers, but for the communities they represent. “We won’t return the same,” said Namara. “This is just the beginning.”

Both Namara and Agira say they are ready to begin preparations for joining the Law Development Centre (LDC) as soon as they return from the U.S as it marks the next step in their journey to becoming fully qualified advocates.

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To support Uganda Christian University programs, students, activities and services, go to www.ugandapartners.org and click on the “donate” button, or contact UCU Partners Executive Director, Mark Bartels, at m.t.bartels@ugandapartners.org.

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UCU alumnus Ijjo living his journalism dream

May 5, 2025Journalism, News, UCU Alumni, UCU School of Journalism, Media and Communication#News, #students, Media and Communication, UCU Alumni, UCU School of JournalismEdwin Byarugaba

A screengrab of David Ijjo reporting for his employer, NTV

By Irene Best Nyapendi
As a young boy in Entebbe, Uganda, David Ijjo’s eyes would be glued to the television screen, captivated by the faces and voices that filled the frame. He did not just watch TV. He imitated the voices he heard, often recreating news broadcasts in his living room.

“I was so intrigued seeing someone in a TV frame,” Ijo recalls. “I wondered how that was possible; immediately, I decided that was the career path I wanted to take.”

His parents recognized his passion and guided him toward journalism. They explained to him that the magic of television was crafted by media practitioners. That revelation set the course for a remarkable journey, one that has seen Ijjo rise from a curious child to a fearless journalist.

Ijjo says he remains committed to holding power to account.

Growing up, Ijjo thought journalism was all about TV glamour. But as he matured, he discovered that it was far more than bright lights and cameras; it was a calling to inform the masses, challenge the people in power and uplift communities. That realization deepened when he enrolled at Uganda Christian University (UCU) in 2019 to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Media, and Communication.

UCU was no random choice.

“Many consultations I made pointed to UCU as the best in teaching journalism,” Ijo says. “Most of the media players I admired were UCU alumni, which cemented my decision.”

At UCU, he found a practical, hands-on learning environment that prepared him for the world of work. With access to a studio, television, newspaper, and equipment, Ijjo worked on his craft under the guidance of dedicated lecturers. By the time he graduated in 2022, he was ready to make his mark.

Ijjo’s big break came through the Media Challenge Initiative, an annual inter-university challenge for journalism students as contestants and editors/managers as judges. That challenge opened the door to an internship at NBS-TV, one of the television stations in Uganda.

As an intern, he dived headfirst into the deep end, reporting on everything, from politics and social justice to crime and religion. His versatility and work ethic didn’t go unnoticed. After his internship, NBS retained him as a sub-editor for their online newspaper, Nile Post. For Ijjo, this was a milestone.

“Working at NBS was enough for me to say I was living my dream,” he says.

But Ijjo’s ambition did not stop there. In August 2024, he joined NTV, another Ugandan broadcaster, as a political reporter. Before that, he sharpened his investigative skills through a journalism fellowship at the African Institute for Investigative Journalism (AAIJ). It was during this time that Ijjo tackled one of his most impactful stories: an investigation into the controversial Akon City project.

In 2020, Senegalese-American musician Akon announced plans to build a futuristic city in Mukono, Uganda, after the government allocated land for the project. Two years later, with little progress to show, Ijjo and his editor at NTV decided to dig deeper. Traveling to Mukono, he uncovered that residents faced threats of eviction, and those compensated received as little as sh500,000 (about $130 USD).

The investigation exposed impunity and gave a voice to the people of Mukono. For Ijjo, the impact was its own reward.

“When stories like that cause panic, it means they have had impact, and that the powerful are held to account,” the 25-year-old says. “That’s my reward as a journalist.”

The experience strengthened his belief that journalism is about serving the public, not personal gain.

His work isn’t without challenges, though. On March 13, 2025, while covering a by-election for a parliamentary seat in Kampala, he and other journalists were brutally attacked by security agencies. Narrowly escaping arrest, Ijjo fled the scene after receiving beatings.

He urges aspiring journalists not to wait until graduation to start practicing the trade, but rather to utilize the equipment they have, and use social media to practice because employers want people with experience.

In a country where political interests often overshadow the rights of ordinary citizens, he remains committed to holding power to account. He explains that politics is a game of interests, and that a majority of Ugandans are affected by the decisions made by the few politicians.

“As citizens, we have the right to good governance, democracy, and freedom of speech,” Ijjo said. “My job is to ensure those rights are upheld.”

Ijjo had his primary education at Entebbe Christian School and later joined Apostles of Jesus Seminary in Moroto district for his secondary education.

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Wabwire’s sweet transition from journalism to pastries

May 2, 2025Journalism, News, UCU Alumni, UCU School of Business, UCU School of Journalism, Media and Communication#News, business, Journalism, UCU AlumniEdwin Byarugaba

Trevor Wabwire, a Uganda Christian University (UCU) journalism graduate

By Irene Best Nyapendi
When Trevor Wabwire qualified to join a university, his parents gave him two options: Either pursue a course in law or journalism. He chose the latter.

He said he feared to pursue a Bachelor of Laws because he had the impression that it was a tough course. But deep inside Wabwire, he preferred neither of the two courses. His heart was set on business. But his father said “no,” and Wabwire obliged.

At Uganda Christian University (UCU), Wabwire pursued a Bachelor of Journalism, Media and Communication. The pressure to please his parents was heavy, but Wabwire’s brilliance was not shaken. He sailed through his classes with ease, until he hit a wall during a field internship. Once in the world of work, he saw journalism’s rough side: long hours, low pay and grumpy mentors who made the job sound like a dead end. His passion for it faded fast, and his grades started to slip. Still, he pushed through, and graduated in 2021.

With his degree in hand, Wabwire did not look back. He ditched newsrooms for his real love – business.

Wabwire’s sweet spot, Uncle Trev’s Eateries, in Busia, eastern Uganda

Wabwire’s passion for business emerged early. Growing up in Busia, a town on Uganda’s border with its eastern neighbor, Kenya, Wabwire noticed a gap in the market for paraffin. In Africa, paraffin, often referred to as kerosene, is primarily used as a source of fuel for cooking, heating and lighting – especially among the poor. As a teenager, he started buying it cheaply in Kenya and selling it in Uganda. Easy money, right? Not to his parents. They thought that act was embarrassing to the family and even punished him for it. But Wabwire wasn’t the type to quit. Their disapproval only firmed his belief in entrepreneurship.

When he got to UCU, he turned his hustle a notch higher. He sold sweets to classmates and owned a chapati stall that he gave someone to run for him in Busia. This taught him important lessons about trade, customer service and hard work, which laid a solid foundation for his after-school business – confectionery.

His “Uncle Trev’s Eateries” is known for snacks like samosas, pies, juices and pastries like cakes and fresh bread.

Among the many products he offers, Wabwire particularly enjoys making passion fruit juice mixed with carrots and ginger. When asked why he chose the food business, he replied; “Food is a basic need of life. People eat every day, which is why I chose this path.”

At 30, Wabwire is not just running a business, he is building a name. He called his place Uncle Trev’s Eateries because he wants it to last – something his children and their children will know.

Since opening it in 2023, his bakery has quickly become the supplier of bread to local schools in the eastern Uganda district of Busia. His consistency and commitment to quality and community service sets him apart, he says.

One could easily say that business runs in Wabwire’s DNA. His grandmother had a successful chapati business, and his mother, too, operated a dry-cleaning business.

One of his proudest moments in pursuing his passion for business was securing a contract with Hot Loaf, a bakery and confectionary company in Uganda. This achievement cemented his belief in his purpose and dedication to his craft. Hot Loaf has been a trusted brand since 1986, widely preferred for bread, and pastries.

Through this partnership, Wabwire benefits from franchising, which allows Uncle Trev’s Eateries to operate under Hot Loaf’s brand name, business model and product offerings. This arrangement enables him to leverage Hot Loaf’s established reputation, marketing resources, and operational support, enhancing his business’s success.

Wabwire started off with Sh10,000,000 ($2,726), putting together his savings and some help from friends and family. At first, his mother was not excited about his switch from journalism to business. But when she noticed his passion, she has now become his biggest cheerleader.

“I proved to her that business is my thing,” he said.

Wabwire has his eyes on the future. He is opening a restaurant at UCU’s Highfield hostel in May, and plans more of such.

Looking back on his time at UCU, he is grateful for the well-rounded education he received. Prior to joining UCU in 2017, he attended Busoga College Mwiri for O’level and St. Peter’s Naalya for his A’level.

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Owakubariho: How I overcame alcohol addiction

April 9, 2025Faculty, News, Students, UCU Alumni, UCU School of Law#News, #students, alcoholism, UCU Alumni, UCU School of LawEdwin Byarugaba

By Kefa Senoga
The Uganda Christian University (UCU) Mukono Campus biweekly community worship on Thursday, July 18, 2024, started as usual in Nkoyoyo Hall. But it wasn’t. Oscar Boban Owakubariho, a staff member, gave a unique testimony.

Owakubariho’s words were woven into a powerful story of struggle with addiction and overcoming it.

“At the time I joined UCU as a student, if someone greeted me with the words ‘Praise the Lord,’ I didn’t know what to respond,” Owakubariho, a lecturer at the School of Law, started his confession.

“You students at UCU should not take this institution for granted because the values it teaches you will help you forever,” he added.

At just 15 years of age, Owakubariho said that he had already developed a drinking habit. “Beer was rare back then, so we drank locally brewed alcohol.”

Born on October 14, 1979, Owakubariho’s academic journey took him from Kitante Primary School to St. Henry’s College Kitovu for his O’level, then to Kyambogo College School for his A’level, and finally to UCU, where he pursued a Bachelor of Laws (LLB). All the schools are in central Uganda.

He said the love for the bottle followed him even into adulthood, influencing his choices and ushering him into a world of struggles.

Owakubariho’s father already knew the challenge his son was facing. To further ensure his son continues with spiritual rehabilitation, he made a decision that he would only pay fees if Owakubariho pursued his undergraduate studies at UCU.

“He also gave me two options for courses – either law or education. I chose law.”

But even while at UCU, according to Owakubariho, he spent a significant amount of time in the nearby trading centers drinking. Such drinking sprees often made him get cross with the law enforcers for the chaos his drunkenness caused in the community. It was not unusual to find him in the Police cells because of drinking.

“We had a disco hall in Mukono called Kisumali, and we were ever there,” he said, reflecting on his student days.

The addiction did not only end at UCU. Even when he graduated from UCU in 2004, and proceeded to the Law Development Center to pursue his Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice, he continued with the practice. Every law graduate in Uganda is mandated to acquire this diploma to be able to practice law in the country.

It wasn’t until 2015, when his body began to fail him that he realized the gravity of his situation. His liver and lungs were severely affected, and he found himself in and out of hospitals, including Uganda’s National Mental Referral Hospital, Butabika.

“I was close to dying,” he admitted. “I later reflected on the advice people had been giving me, and in that moment of desperation, I prayed to God to heal me.”

In 2018, at 39 years of age, he finally broke free from the chains of addiction.

“God gave me a second chance, and I knew I had to change my livelihood,” he said.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), every year, alcohol abuse kills 2.5 million people worldwide. WHO ranks Uganda the second leading consumer of alcohol in Africa and the 28th in the world.

Owakubariho said from his experience, he noticed that most of the people are struggling either with alcohol or drug abuse, but that they are afraid to let people know about it.

“They deceive themselves that a solution will come tomorrow, and tomorrow becomes the next week,” he said.

Owakubariho understood this cycle all too well. He says from around 2011, he was tired of abusing alcohol.

“I had gotten the signals and wanted to stop,” he recalled. “I kept saying, ‘Maybe I will stop on Saturday,’ but I kept postponing.”

Owakubariho highlighted the need to change one’s social circles in order to overcome alcoholism. He was advised to leave the drinking groups, to stop looking at alcohol-related pictures, and to “start engaging with people who feared God.” That advice significantly changed his life, and that’s how he got to understand that “there is another world beyond alcohol.”

Despite having a law degree and a diploma in legal practice, Owakubariho says that he found himself in bars with people who had never had any formal education.

“I used to drink in a bar owned by a man who had only studied up to Primary Two,” he said. “I would borrow money from relatives just to drink. If my money ran out, I would leave my ID or phone behind as collateral.”

Today, Owakubariho stands as a transformed man, dedicated to guiding young minds at UCU, the very institution that once witnessed his battle with addiction. He says his testimony serves as a reminder that no one is beyond redemption and that faith, coupled with the right choices, can lead to a life of purpose and fulfillment.

Through his experiences, Owakubariho urges students to cherish their time at UCU and to embrace the values it instills.

“God can use anyone to become anything,” he said. “In the Bible, He used Gideon, who was nothing, to save the Israelites. Likewise, if He could save me, He can save anyone.”

He is now married, but the couple has no child yet.

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UCU training re-affirms need to fuse faith and learning

March 28, 2025Bishop Tucker School of Divinity and Theology, Faculty, News, UCU Alumni#News, #students, Bishop Tucker School of Divinity and Theology, religion, UCU AlumniEdwin Byarugaba

Administrators, academic registrars and facilitators after the faith-integration seminar (wearing blue neck tie, in center, is UCU Vice Chancellor Assoc. Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi) — Administrators, academic registrars and facilitators after the faith-integration seminar (wearing blue neck tie, in center,is UCU Vice Chancellor Assoc. Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi)

By Irene Best Nyapendi
Anyone with a firm spiritual foundation will find it easier to develop a sense of purpose that nurtures emotional resilience, which is key in navigating both academic and broader life challenges. This is the foundation on which Uganda Christian University (UCU) was built 27 years ago.

And the university continues to bask in that foundation. A recent seminar at the UCU main campus in Mukono is testament to this.

UCU’s Bishop Tucker School of Divinity and Theology, in partnership with Theological Education Development Services (TEDS), an organization from South Africa, conducted a week-long Integration of Faith and Learning (IFLS) training. This workshop, held late January, was a follow-up of a similar one in 2023 that was also facilitated by Caroline and Richard Seed from TEDS in South Africa. It aimed at seamlessly integrating faith into UCU’s curricula while promoting a holistic approach to education.

The Rev. Dr. Caroline Seed from TEDS in South Africa, guides UCU staff through innovative strategies for embedding faith into learning and service.

At the recent workshop, the duo guided UCU staff through innovative strategies for embedding faith into learning and service. A foundation set on the premise of a formal orthodox foundation for both students and university staff means that the model combines academic learning with community service, allowing students to apply their faith, develop empathy and address social issues from a Christian perspective.

Throughout the five days of the seminar, the facilitators emphasized the importance of fulfilling UCU’s faith mission by embodying its five core values of Christ-centeredness, Diligence, Integrity, Servanthood and Stewardship. The over 180 staff, comprising senior university managers, assistant registrars, and lecturers at the seminar, participated in discussions and practical exercises intended to equip them with the skills to seamlessly integrate faith into their teaching.

According to the Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Mukeshimana, a lecturer and the coordinator of IFLS at UCU, the program encourages students to adopt a decent dress code and promotes core values centered on Christ.

The Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Mukeshimana, a UCU lecturer and IFLS coordinator

“We have faith integrated into our curricula in foundational course units, but now I have learned to integrate prayer, scripture and theological reflection into classroom activities,” Mukeshimana noted.

All students of UCU pursue Foundation Studies as part of their study, irrespective of the course they are undertaking. The Foundation Studies courses include the Old Testament, the New Testament, Understanding Ethics, World Views and Health and Wholeness.

“I learned to weave faith throughout my teaching; the goal is to revolutionize the curriculum by infusing every course unit with faith,” Mukeshimana explained.

During the training, Mrs. Grace Kesande Tusubira, an administrative assistant, recognized the importance of maintaining an open and inclusive environment.

“I now strive to create an inclusive environment where Christian values are upheld,” she said.

Mrs. Grace Kesande Tusubira attending the seminar at UCU’s main campus in Mukono

Kesande noted that embracing the doctrine of God can demonstrate transparency through open communication, which builds trust and fosters accountability.

One of the goals that Kesande set for herself after the training was to focus on increasing stakeholder engagement and being more responsive to inquiries.

Mr. Osborn Ahimbisibwe, UCU’s Research Ethics Manager, noted the Worldview Integration Model as a standout concept from the conference. “It fosters critical thinking, reflection, and dialogue to cultivate a holistic understanding of truth and knowledge,” he explained.

Ahimbisibwe said he also gained valuable insights into effective staff management. He learned about different employee types, including those passionate about their work, those less motivated, and those who merely go through the motions. This understanding, he explained, enabled him to develop strategies for managing diverse personalities and work styles.

“I also discovered the importance of recognizing individual strengths and weaknesses,” he added. “By helping colleagues address their weaknesses and build on their strengths, we can work towards a shared vision and mission.”

For Livingstone Kafeero, the assistant registrar in charge of transcripts, certificates, and results, the seminar offered valuable insights to enhance the faith-infused educational experience.

“I was reminded that leadership is about creating conditions for all to rise,” Kafeero said.

Martin Kajubi, a lecturer, said: “The collective commitment to this integrative approach reaffirms UCU’s mission to prepare students for productive lives of Christian faith and service.”

The implementers of the teaching model say they are fully cognisant of the challenges that may arise with this learning approach, one of which is perceiving faith integration as imposing beliefs on academic inquiry.

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Ekong becomes Dean of Faculty of Public Health, Nursing, and Midwifery

March 26, 2025Faculty of Public Health, Nursing and Midwifery, News, Students, UCU Alumni#News, #students, and Midwifery, Bethel University, Faculty of Faculty of Public Health, Nursing, UCU AlumniEdwin Byarugaba

Dr. Elizabeth Namukombe Ekong is UCU’s new Dean of the Faculty of Public Health, Nursing, and Midwifery, and the current chairperson of the Uganda Nursing and Midwives Council.

By Irene Best Nyapendi
Midwives are witnesses of the miracle that giving birth is. In doing so, they support mothers through labor and delivery. And that has been the profession of Dr. Elizabeth Namukombe Ekong for decades, both as an active and passive participant.

For the times when she was an active midwife, Ekong says one of her most memorable experiences involved a baby who was delivered breech. A breech is when either the bottom or the feet of the baby comes first during delivery. And as expected, such scenarios may result in complications if not handled skillfully. For the case that Ekong was handling, the baby came out but was not breathing. Neither did it cry. And that was a serious concern for both the mother and the medics.

‘It finally cried’
Ekong took the baby to a separate room, performed resuscitation, and prayed fervently, declaring life into it, until it finally cried. Overjoyed, she connected the baby to oxygen and brought it back to the mother, who was filled with tears of joy. Those are the kinds of miracles that from childhood, Ekong prayed to be performing – bringing hope to a distressed patient.

“I was determined to touch lives and help people feel better,” she recalls.

However, along the way, she changed direction, from clinical practice to academia, possibly to ensure that instead of practicing, she takes charge of teaching and churning out more medics who will be able to do what she all along dreamed of.

Midwifery or teaching?
Ekong crossed to academia in 2008 after completing her Bachelor of Nursing Science at Uganda Christian University (UCU). She was among the pioneer students for this course at UCU. After completing her bachelor’s degree, she was faced with a difficult choice: to remain in her government position as a midwife or accept a tutorial assistant role at UCU. She chose the latter.

And since 2008, Ekong has not looked back, growing through the ranks at UCU, with her most recent appointment as the Dean of the Faculty of Public Health, Nursing, and Midwifery.

She holds a Diploma in Midwifery, a Diploma in Nursing, a Bachelor of Nursing Science from UCU (2008), a master’s degree (2011), and a PhD from the University of Central Nicaragua (2022). Dr. Karen Drake, emeritus professor of nursing, Bethel University (St. Paul, Minn.), has been her mentor.

“I was surprised when I heard that I had been appointed dean, but after I shared the information with my family and friends, their excitement for me filled my heart with joy,” she said during an interview she granted Uganda Partners recently.

She sees her latest appointment as a calling from God, as well as the result of her strong attention to detail and dedication to her work, qualities she says her colleagues have consistently recognized.

Now, as dean
As she takes over from Dr. Miriam Mutabazi, she envisions increasing student enrollment, growing strong faculty teams, and expanding the faculty’s programs, including the introduction of a PhD program.

As dean, she has delegated the responsibility for clinical course units to others, as her role requires her to be less present at the hospital with the students. However, she continues to serve as a senior lecturer, teaching students pursuing bachelor’s and master’s degrees in the faculty.

She identifies one of the faculty’s key challenges as operating in hospitals that are not owned by UCU for student training. This often prevents them from taking all students to a single facility due to capacity limitations, highlighting the need for more staff.

To address this, they collaborate with personnel at such hospitals to assist in training. She envisions a future where UCU has its own hospital, enhancing the educational experience for students.

What makes UCU’s nursing program unique is that the Bachelor of Nursing Science curriculum includes Foundation Courses like world views, Christian living (New and Old Testament), Christian ethics and others. The curriculum is designed to equip students with the necessary competencies and skills that the teaching staff are committed to pass on. The Master of Nursing Science curriculum integrates the Christian and professional ethics in the different course units, giving the graduates unique competencies that make them stand out in the communities they serve.

Such an approach focuses on nurturing students to embrace both professional and Christian ethics, in line with the nursing anthem that proclaims their divine calling to serve.

Ekong is the chairperson of the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Council (UNMC), the regulators of the nursing profession in Uganda. The body enforces standards of training and practice, registers nurses and midwives, and provides professional guidelines for public safety.

At 57, Ekong is a mother and wife, married to Dr. Ekong Joseph, a medical doctor. The couple has been married for more than 25 years. They are blessed with three biological children, two of whom are currently pursuing degrees at UCU. She says her family has been a source of strength and encouragement, supporting her through her career journey.

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Kusiima fights for menstrual justice in Uganda

March 21, 2025News, Students, UCU Alumni, UCU School of Business#News, #students, menstrual health, Project Planning and Entrepreneurship, School of Business, UCU AlumniEdwin Byarugaba

Jovia Kusiima (wearing white T-shirt) teaching young girls how to make reusable pads

By Pauline Luba
Growing up in Nyakabonge, a village in Kikuube district, western Uganda, Jovia Kusiima witnessed firsthand the dreams of many young girls cut short simply because they could not afford to maintain menstrual hygiene.

One particular story still lingers in her mind: The love for education by one brilliant and ambitious girl was overshadowed by the shame and isolation she faced during her menstrual cycle. She was eventually forced out of school because she felt she could not stand the humiliation of going through menstruation without sanitary towels.

Kusiima awarding a girl goodies during one of the outreaches for her organization, High Hope Uganda.

In Nyakabonge village, one woman was sent away from her home for asking her husband to help provide her with sanitary pads. Her departure from her home also marked the beginning of the collapse of her family. Societal injustices like these gave Kusiima, a Uganda Christian University (UCU) alum, a passion: Becoming an advocate for menstrual justice.

In 2021, she started High Hope Uganda, a grassroots organization founded with a mission to break barriers to menstrual justice, create vocational skills and encourage entrepreneurship. Kusiima’s intention was to make her story one of resilience, passion, and unwavering determination to challenge societal norms and advocate policy changes in Uganda.

In Uganda, estimates indicate that millions of girls aged 12-18 years have challenges in maintaining menstrual hygiene. According to the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization, menstruation is the leading cause of absenteeism among school-going girls in Uganda.

School children listening attentively during a presentation by Kusiima

Through High Hope Uganda, Kusiima turned her personal struggles into a mission to ensure that no girl is left behind as a result of period poverty or lack of reproductive health education.

Her organization afforded her the opportunity to engage with diverse cultures, hence witnessing firsthand the barriers women and girls face. This, in turn, fuelled her deep commitment to menstrual justice. This exposure became a catalyst in shaping her expertise and driving her to create sustainable solutions that empower women and girls in schools and communities.

High Hope Uganda focuses on training and equipping women, girls and youth with skills to engage in social and economic activities for sustainable development. The organization operates three key programs: SheCycle Program, which promotes menstrual health through producing and distributing reusable pads; Uplift Program, which provides mentorship and educational support; and the Safety Program, which addresses child sexual violence.

Starting her organization was no easy feat. With minimal external support, Kusiima relied on family encouragement and personal savings. She emphasizes the need for research-backed advocacy and practical interventions, ensuring her work remains culturally-sensitive while also addressing critical issues, such as menstrual justice, youth empowerment, and reproductive health education. She has also formed partnerships with student-led organizations to expand her impact.

One of the most impactful moments in Kusiima’s advocacy journey came in 2022 when she met a 15-year-old girl in the western Uganda district of Hoima, struggling with menstrual health. Unable to afford sanitary products, the girl had resorted to using rags, an issue many young girls face due to period poverty. Kusiima stepped in, providing her with reusable pads and menstrual health education. Another case involved a mother of 12, among which were eight daughters. She could not afford pads for her children. Initially requesting help for just one daughter, the woman was overwhelmed when Kusiima ensured all the eight received reusable pads. Through the SheCycle Program, High Hope Uganda has since distributed reusable pads to over 150 learners. It has also educated more than 100 students on how to maintain menstrual health.

Kusiima teaching girls about menstrual hygiene

Over the next five to ten years, she hopes to expand the SheCycle Program countrywide, establishing production centers for reusable pads, and pushing for policy reforms to institutionalize menstrual health education in schools.

Kusiima was born 27 years ago in Kikuube district, western Uganda, to Misaki Tibaijuka and Monday Oliver. She is the firstborn in a family of four children.

She studied at Our Lady Queen of Africa Rubaga, Daystar Christian Secondary School, and Buddo Secondary School before joining UCU in 2018. At UCU, she pursued a Bachelor’s in Project Planning and Entrepreneurship. It was at UCU that her passion for entrepreneurship flourished — she started making jewelry, crocheting, and selling reusable pads. During the Covid-19 lockdown, she launched a poultry project, which she says sustained her until she could establish a stable career for herself.

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UCU transitions to competence-based education model

March 19, 2025News, Students, UCU Alumni#News, #students, academics, curriculum, hands-on learning, UCU AlumniEdwin Byarugaba

UCU academic leadership unveiling the competence-based education model included (L-R): Rev. Dr. Paul Kakooza, Director of Education of the Province of the Anglican Church of Uganda; Rev. Assoc. Prof. John Mulindwa Kitayimbwa, UCU’s Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs; Assoc. Prof. Angella Napakol, UCU’s Director of Academic Affairs; and Dean of the UCU School of Education, Dr. Mary Ocheng Kagoire.

By Kefa Senoga
Uganda Christian University (UCU) has embraced the transition to a competence-based education model, aligning with the government’s broader education reforms that are aimed at producing highly skilled and employable graduates. The decision reflects a significant shift in Uganda’s education system, from rote learning to applied knowledge and hands-on experience, making the learners more adaptable to the job market. The new curriculum direction offers the opportunity for a more learner-centered approach, with the aim of developing specific skills and competencies.

In 2007, the country rolled out the thematic curriculum, starting with Primary One. In 2021, the competence-based education model, which prioritizes practical skills, critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving over rote memorization, was rolled out in Senior One. The pioneers of the curriculum sat their end-of-Senior-Four national exams towards the end of last year.

The National Curriculum Development Centre – the agency charged with making curricula in Uganda – has since been working on reviewing and modifying the A’level curriculum to ensure a seamless transition for students progressing through the system.

The Rev. Assoc. Prof. John Kitayimbwa, UCU’s Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs, addressing the press at UCU main campus recently.

UCU is, therefore, restructuring its academic programs as a direct response to the national agenda, to ensure that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also competent in real-world applications of their studies. The move underscores the university’s commitment to shaping a workforce that meets industry demands and promotes self-employment.

In 2023, the National Council for Higher Education, Uganda’s regulatory body for higher education, asked universities and other tertiary institutions to review their programs and ensure they are aligned to the ongoing curriculum reviews.

According to the Rev. Assoc. Prof. John Mulindwa Kitayimbwa, UCU’s Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs, the university is redesigning its academic approach to emphasize knowledge application, behavioral change, and practical experience.

“Students will no longer be in class for five days a week. Instead, they will attend classes for four days, with one day dedicated to real-world engagements,” Kitayimbwa explained recently. “This initiative will equip them with essential skills, such as starting and managing small businesses, tracking sales, and maintaining financial records.”

To further enhance hands-on learning, UCU is making fundamental changes to its assessment methods. The university is transitioning from the traditional summative assessment model, which relies on final exams, to a formative approach, where students receive continuous feedback to improve throughout their studies.

One of the most notable changes in UCU’s transition is the restructuring of internships. Unlike the traditional system where students participate in internships for a brief period before graduation, UCU is introducing continuous internship experiences from the first year through to graduation.

“Internships at UCU will now be a continuous process, allowing students to integrate academic knowledge with hands-on experience throughout their university journey,” Kitayimbwa explained. This initiative is expected to enhance students’ practical skills and industry readiness.

The Dean of UCU’s School of Education, Dr. Mary Ocheng Kagoire, emphasized the importance of aligning teacher training with the evolving education landscape.

“As the changes are taking place in the education system, we felt it important that instead of conducting in-service training for teachers in the field, it is better that by the time students leave the university, they are already competent enough to put into practice what they have learned,” Kagoire said.

Rev. Dr. Paul Kakooza, the Director of Education at the Anglican Church of Uganda, said the reforms align with the church’s broader vision for education.

“We appreciate these changes, which are designed to improve the quality of teachers and their ability to deliver within the new curriculum framework. Our goal is to produce graduates who are not only knowledgeable, but also capable of creating opportunities for themselves,” he emphasized.

Beyond the curriculum changes, UCU is integrating mentorship programs to bridge the gap between academic training and industry expectations. Assoc. Prof. Angella Napakol, UCU’s Director of Academic Affairs, highlighted the university’s “Code Buddy” initiative in the ICT department, where alumni mentor first-year students.

“Through this mentorship program, students engage with professionals both on and off campus, leading to remarkable outcomes,” Napakol said.

She also highlighted similar hands-on experiences in the School of Journalism, Media and Communication, where students publish news stories, films, and related articles through platforms like UCU’s community newspaper, The Standard. This practical exposure ensures graduates are well-prepared for their respective careers.

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Musekura lives his calling as a driver

March 10, 2025News, Students, UCU Alumni, UCU Kampala Campus, Uganda Partners#News, #students, #technology, UCU Alumni, UCU Kampala CampusEdwin Byarugaba

Deo Musekura (center) receives his award from UCU Vice Chancellor Aaron Mushengyezi. At left is Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Assoc. Prof. John Kitayimbwa.

By Kefa Senoga
For Deo Musekura, driving is not just a job. It is a calling. The call is to work and ensure the safety of passengers.

He believes that it is his dedication, humility and work ethic that have made him a valued member of the Uganda Christian University (UCU) community. In December last year, the university formally recognized Musekura’s contributions with an award for his exceptional service during the university’s end-of-year community worship in Nkoyoyo Hall.

According to Musekura, he was inspired into a career as a driver by someone who drove an ambulance in the latter’s home town in Kisoro, southwestern Uganda. Determined to follow in his role model’s footsteps, Musekura learned how to drive and secured the same job at Kisoro Regional Referral Hospital.

For 17 years, Musekura transported patients, many in critical condition, from Kisoro to Mulago National Referral Hospital in Kampala.

“Through that job, I was able to help save people’s lives,” Musekura recalls. “No patient ever died under my watch while I was transporting them, even in emergency cases.”

He remembers some of the lives he helped save, including an acid attack victim and a stroke patient.

UCU Vice Chancellor with staff who got awards last year

In 2019, Musekura changed work stations, from the hospital to UCU, having responded to an advertisement that the university put out in the media. Three months into his new job at UCU, there was a shutdown in movement in Uganda because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Despite the challenges, Musekura mentions that he remained steadfast, ready to serve once normalcy returned.

Currently in his fifth year at UCU, Musekura attributes his continued success to his strong work ethic, punctuality, and ability to collaborate with both staff and students.

“What has kept me going is my commitment to hard work and teamwork,” he says. “I cooperate well with everyone in the UCU community, whether student or staff. I believe in building strong relationships.”

Musekura was on duty at UCU’s Kampala Campus when he received an unexpected phone call from the Human Resource Directorate of the university. He had been selected as one of the university’s outstanding employees for his exceptional administrative support.

“I was pleasantly surprised and overjoyed to hear that I would be among the staff recognized at the end of 2024. This shows that the people I work for appreciate what I do.”

During the awards ceremony last year, UCU’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Finance and Administration, David Mugawe, explained the significance of the awards.

“The University Council asked management to create a way to reward outstanding staff,” Mugawe noted. “The evaluation criteria included staff performance, contributions to research and grants, leadership roles, and excellence in teaching.”

UCU Vice Chancellor Assoc. Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi emphasized the importance of maintaining a culture of excellence and acknowledged that while no one is without flaws, the contributions of the awardees were commendable. Each awardee received a plaque and a financial reward.

Annually, UCU has been awarding staff members who make a milestone of 10 years of service. However, last year, it was different. A total of 31 employees were recognized for exceptional service, as part of UCU’s new performance-based staff awards.

For Musekura, the award is not just a personal achievement, but also a reminder of the values he upholds: integrity, punctuality and flexibility. He takes immense pride in his timekeeping skills and his ability to adapt to various challenges.

“I want to be remembered as a time-conscious and flexible worker,” he says.

Beyond his personal accomplishments, one of the things that excites him most about UCU is the fact that his first born, Manzi Emmanuel, is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in ICT on a full scholarship offered by the university.

As Musekura continues his journey at UCU, he notes that he remains committed to serving with excellence, proving that dedication and a heart for service do not go unnoticed.

Musekura hails from Kisoro District and is a devoted family man. He and his wife, Beatrice Nyinazekkuhozi, have four children. He notes that his parents – Habyarimana and Tereza Habyarimana – have played a significant role in shaping his values and dedication to service.

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UCU Vice Chancellor cements footprint in church leadership

March 7, 2025Bishop Tucker School of Divinity and Theology, Faculty, News, Students, UCU Alumni#Mushengyezi, #News, communications, Theology, UCU Alumni, UCU studentsEdwin Byarugaba

Assoc. Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi receiving church instruments of power

By Kefa Senoga
Uganda Christian University (UCU) Vice Chancellor, Assoc. Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, was recently installed as a Lay Canon for Education and Human Resource Development in Bukedi Diocese in eastern Uganda. The January 25, 2025, ceremony took place at St. Peter’s Cathedral, Tororo.

Reflecting on his appointment, Prof. Mushengyezi recalled his initial reaction when he received the call from Bishop Samuel George Egesa Bogere.

“I asked him, ‘Are you sure you are calling the right person?’ He assured me that it is by God’s grace that we receive such honors,” he shared.

“We have a bountiful harvest today—ten ordinands and eight canons, including UCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi. We give God all the glory,” Bishop Baalwa said.

The service was officiated by Bishop Bogere, who preached on the theme, “Imitating God’s Goodness by Doing Good” (Galatians 6:9-10). The UCU delegation included staff and student representatives who traveled to the diocese to witness the occasion.

The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, His Grace the Most Rev. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, was represented at the event by the Rt. Rev. Frederick Jackson Baalwa, the Assistant Bishop of Kampala Diocese. Baalwa commended the Church in Bukedi for its positive community impact and efforts in nurturing new church leaders.

The role of a Lay Canon in the Anglican Church in Uganda is deeply rooted in lay leadership and ministry. Lay canons contribute to the life and work of the church. Their responsibilities include advising the cathedral chapter on administrative matters, promoting the church’s mission, acting as a bridge between the clergy and the laity, offering mentorship, and providing spiritual leadership. The position is an acknowledgment of an individual’s long-standing service and commitment to the church.

Prof. Mushengyezi with this wife, Patience

Mushengyezi has been actively involved in church activities for decades. Since accepting Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior in 1980, he has served in various leadership roles, including as a member of the St. Francis Chapel Council, the Fathers’ Union, and as Chairperson of the Kigezi-Ankole Anglican Youth Missioners. His passion for serving the church and community development led him in 2010 to co-found the Franciscan Investment Cooperative Society, a financial institution based at St. Francis Chapel, Makerere University. By December 2023, the cooperative had grown to 2,877 members, with a portfolio of sh26 billion (about $6.94 million).

Mushengyezi’s installation as Lay Canon comes just a year after he was honored by the Ugandan government with a Golden Jubilee Medal for his contribution to the education sector. He was among 57 individuals recognized at the national celebrations in Fort Portal City. The Office of the President of Uganda bestows these medals to individuals who have made remarkable achievements in leadership and service to the nation.

And it is by God’s grace that Mushengyezi lived to see adult life. At age 11, he fell very ill while in Primary Five. His mother rushed him to the hospital, where doctors warned that he had only 48 hours to live if treatment was delayed. After recovering, they advised his mother to take special care of him, warning that he might not live past his 16th birthday.

A cross section of some UCU staff at the event

“Those words always haunted me, but doctors are not God,” the Vice Chancellor said. “We believe in the report of the Lord.” He reflected that even though the doctors had made their report, God had a plan for him, leading to his eventual service as UCU Vice Chancellor and now as a Lay Canon.

Born July 24, 1969, Mushengyezi and his wife, Patience Rubabinda Mushengyezi, have four children. He holds a Bachelor of Arts (First-Class Honors) and a Master of Arts from Makerere University, as well as a PhD from the University of Connecticut, USA. Before joining UCU, he served as the Dean of the School of Languages, Literature, and Communication at Makerere University. He also held positions such as Head of the Department of Journalism and Communication, Chairman of the University Council at Africa Renewal University, and Project Coordinator for Development Partnerships in Higher Education at Makerere University.

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‘Starting with just two goats, I realized the potential…’

March 5, 2025News, UCU Alumni, UCU School of Social SciencesAgriculture, goats, UCU Alumni, UgandaEdwin Byarugaba

John Lufafa having a light moment with a “kid” at the farm

By Eriah Lule
According to the Tridge agri-food data and intelligence website, New Zealand was the top goat meat exporter in 2024.

Nowadays, Uganda Christian University (UCU) graduate John Lufafa is watching these statistics with a goal to bring Uganda up on the list with his adult goat meat, also known as chevon. He knows that goat loin is the most desired cut, followed by leg and shoulder.

He never started out to be a goat farmer, but now that he is, he wants to be the best.

The outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdown led to a closure of many income-generating activities, a gap that opened many people’s minds to the need for a sustainable source of income. At the same time, the Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu famous quote “the journey of a thousand miles begins with one step” haunted Lufafa and drove his vision of goat farming. The years 2020 and 2021 were the perfect time to begin.

“Starting with just two goats, I realized the potential of livestock farming for long-term financial growth,” he said. “Goat farming has reinforced my belief that small and well-managed initiatives can grow into significant economic ventures.”

Lufafa, who now has 60 goats, focuses on scalability, reinvestment and sustainability. He shunned goat farming as just an immediate source of his livelihood.

“I noticed it as a long-term investment, growing the herd, improving breed quality and exploring better feeding and healthcare practices to maximize productivity,” he said.

The UCU graduate of a Bachelor of Development Studies in 2015 learned this process as a university student. The UCU course exposed him to principles of sustainable development, resource management and economic empowerment – all of which are essential in agriculture and livestock farming.

Lufafa ventured into local goats with a particular interest in Mubende goats that originated in Uganda and are known for their hardness and disease resistance. He also has the South African breed called Boer.

He has learned that selective breeding improves herd quality and productivity over time with regular veterinary check-ups for disease prevention and early detection. Additionally, proper nutrition with balanced feed and access to clean water helps to ensure sustainability and profitability.

In a media interview, the Rev. Associate Professor John Mulindwa Kitayimbwa emphasized UCU’s theme statement, A complete education for a complete person.

“We are determined to producing a graduate that can compete in all walks of life and be of great service to the community” he said “Our major aim isn’t educating our students but preparing them for the world ahead of them and how better to tackle it for better lives.”

Lufafa affirmed that the university shaped his perspective on sustainability, economic empowerment and self-reliance. Through coursework and field experiences, he gained a deeper understanding of how small-scale enterprises can create lasting impact, especially in rural communities.

He acknowledges value addition, market linkages and community-based development as some of the factors that have influenced how he has managed to grow from two goats in 2020 to 60 goats in 2025 on his farm in Iganga District in the eastern part of the country.

Lufafa, 35, is the first born of five children of Duncan and Justine Lufafa of Jinja District in the eastern part of the country. The goat farmer and his wife, Nakidde Patience, have two children.

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Masiga seeks to take church to people with disabilities

March 3, 2025Bishop Tucker School of Divinity and Theology, Faculty, News, Students, UCU Alumni#News, #students, Bishop Tucker School of Divinity and Theology, UCU AlumniEdwin Byarugaba

By Kefa Senoga
A few minutes after 9 a.m on November 11, 2024, the Rev. Simon Masiga stood in front of an audience – both physical and virtual — in CHUSS Smart room at Makerere University’s College of Humanities and Social Sciences.

This morning engagement for Masiga, one of the faculty members at the college, was not an ordinary one. This time, Masiga was before a panel of examiners and the public, as he tried to defend his PhD research, under the topic: “An Interpretive Study of the Perceptions of Disability in 2 Samuel 9 and among the Bamasaaba in Eastern Uganda.”

2 Samuel 9 tells the story of how King David showed compassion to Mephibosheth, the disabled son of his late friend, Jonathan. King David restored the land of Mephibosheth’s family and invited him to the King’s table by restoring his family’s land. This action demonstrated David’s loyalty to his covenant with Jonathan, despite Saul’s hostility towards him and that act showed his empathy and faithfulness to promises made.

2 Samuel 9 was the biblical text that Masiga, a lecturer in the Department of Religion and Peace Studies at Makerere University, hinged his PhD research on. The aim of the study, Masiga explains in his abstract, was to explore how the interpretation of disability in 2 Samuel 9 and the social cultural construction of disability among Bamasaaba can promote social and religious inclusion of persons with disability.

And for more than four hours Masiga, clad in a navy-blue suit, white shirt and matching neck tie, labored to convince the panel before him during the oral presentation that he had extensive knowledge of his research and field.

Masiga acquired his PhD from Makerere University

Based on the findings, the study recommended a positive and inclusive interpretation of disability among religious communities that can transform perspective and enhance inclusion by integrating people with disability fully into society through deconstructing normative notions within religious communities.

The November PhD defense was a success and, on January 17, 2025, Masiga was among the 20 students who earned a PhD from the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. He notes that his research is already making an impact, as he has been invited to various platforms to share strategies on how the church can better include individuals with special needs in ministry.

“I was recently invited to the special needs congress at Uganda Christian University and I based on my research study to educate the church leaders about how they can involve individuals with special needs in daily church activities,” Masiga said.

At the Congress held in the Nkoyoyo Hall at the UCU Main Campus in Mukono, Dr. Masiga, emphasized that physical differences do not diminish an individual’s humanity. “People with disabilities are also entitled to normal lives. They deserve justice, self-confidence, and a strong sense of identity.”

He believes that his research will continue to influence how the church is going to train pastors to minister with people with disabilities. “I am planning to do a dissemination documentary project where I will collect stories of people who participated in my research study and I use the stories to do sensitization campaigns on the rights of people with disability to participate in church and community activities,” he explains.

Masiga recalls that before pursuing his PhD, he frequently received questions about the Bible that he felt unable to fully address with his knowledge at master’s level. And he reasons that it is this thirst for knowledge that motivated him to pursue further studies in Biblical Research in African contexts.

During his master’s course in Biblical Studies at UCU, Masiga notes that he explored how African cultural perspectives on circumcision align with biblical teachings, aiming to contextualize biblical texts in African cultural contexts. This exploration became the foundation for his PhD research.

Besides his passion for research on his areas of interest, Masiga says that he pursued a PhD to continue his career in university teaching, recognizing that obtaining a doctorate was essential for maintaining his position in academia.

Masiga started his university teaching career in 2015, at UCU, as a teaching assistant in the Department of Foundations. He says that his vision was to serve the church as a clergy while practicing teaching as a career. Masiga earned a Bachelor of Divinity at UCU and was ordained in 2015 at St. Matthew Cathedral, North Mbale Diocese.

He recalls serving in the church as early as 2008 when he was just completing his secondary school studies. “I never imagined I would become a priest, nor did I ever think I would earn a PhD,” he says.

Masiga began his education in eastern Uganda at Kikobero Primary School, before advancing to Muyembe High School, for O’level and then Mbale High School for A’level. All the three schools are in eastern Uganda. He initially enrolled at Kyambogo University to pursue a Bachelor of Education, but his academic journey was disrupted when his sponsor could no longer afford to support his university education.

When he dropped out of school, his home diocese of North Mbale offered him an opportunity to study for priesthood at UCU, after recognizing his dedication as a lay servant in the church.

In 2018, he married Esther Tabitha, a lady he met as a student at UCU. The couple has no biological children yet but are looking after four foster children.

In 2019, Masiga transitioned from UCU to Compassion International, where he took up a new role as a child advocate, focusing on program training and discipleship. It was from Compassion International that he later moved to Makerere University in 2021. This experience along with his educational background has paved the way for Masiga to be a strong advocate for people with disabilities.

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New dean Kizito’s vision for UCU School of Social Sciences

February 17, 2025Faculty, SRPGS, UCU School of Social Sciences#News, Faculty, School of Social Sciences, UCU AlumniEdwin Byarugaba

Dr. Martin Kizito, the newly appointed Dean of the School of Social Sciences at UCU.

By Best Nyapendi
Dr. Martin Kizito is the new Dean of the School of Social Sciences at Uganda Christian University. Kizito, who was appointed last month, succeeds Rev. Assoc. Prof. Andrew David Omona, who has held the position for the past five years.

“I consider this a divine calling. Being redeployed back to social sciences meant a possibility of being appointed dean because, while I was in the school, previously, I had already served in the other different leadership roles and more so committedly, except that role of deanship. But honestly, I had not seen it coming this soon,” Kizito said. He has worked in UCU since 2009.

Having previously served the university as Head of Grants and Partnerships in the Directorate of Research Partnership and Innovation, Kizito will be replaced by Dr. Jonathan Tumwebaze, who will oversee grants and research, while Dr. Miriam Mutabazi will spearhead partnerships and community engagements.

He believes that this new position will empower him to implement best management and administrative practices he’s been observing in different institutions across the world.

Rev. Assoc. Prof. Andrew David Omona (left) handing over office to Dr. Martin Kizito.

His vision builds on the foundation laid by the previous dean, with a focus on revitalizing the school’s legacy, especially after Covid-19 impacted negatively on the students’ numbers and overall engagement activities.

Kizito’s revitalization agenda prioritizes growing student numbers through national and international students’ recruitment, applied teaching and learning, students’ engagement activities, improved customer care, staff research and publication.

In order to ensure that more postgraduate students complete their courses within the recommended timeframe, Kizito intends to use the e-dissertation management system. The system will cultivate a culture where supervisee-supervisor interaction is monitored, to provide tailored support virtually through research clinics. He has also targeted collaborating with the rest of the faculty to develop a more generalized PhD program. The program can attract more students and boost the school’s profile, capitalizing on the recent abundant harvest of over 5 PhDs in the last year.

Kizito said they are closely being supported by the office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Affairs, to run several market-driven professional short courses in areas like Child Development and Ministry, Development Monitoring and Evaluation, Counselling Psychology, Special Needs Care, Public Policy and Governance.

“We are also in the process of introducing a monthly symposium, to promote scholarly debates and showcase the expertise in the school. Already, several teams have been established to promote multi-disciplinary grant writing, research and publication, leveraging the experience from the Directorate of Research Partnership and Innovation.

To attract more students to the undergraduate programs in the school, Kizito chairs a committee working on an aggressive marketing strategy for the school’s unique programs. He plans to revive the schools’ traditions of regular community engagements with non-governmental organizations and local governments, the annual anti-corruption week with partners in the transparency and accountability sectors, as well as reputable guest lectures for students’ career guidance.

“We also count on extending our networks to the churches, working with the Office of Church Relations and building partnerships of mutual benefit with schools where most of our students have been coming.”

It is also timely for us to revive students’ activities through their different professional associations, which provide a platform for students’ mentorship by senior practioners.

He noted: “Our alumni have exceled over time and are well placed in international, regional and national organizations, and are very much willing to support their school regain its dominant position in the university.”

And he believes that the faculty should be able to guarantee excellent customer care at the school, effective teaching and timely release of results. “It is for that reason that we are going for a retreat to reflect on where the gaps could be and lay strategies for improvement.”

In 2016, when Kizito sensed that the university had started entrusting him with big assignments, he returned to school to pursue a doctorate, knowing well that fortune favors a prepared mind. At the time, he had been appointed the Head of the Department of Public Administration and Governance at UCU.

“Being head of department meant I built the standard for the rest of the staff, so I felt challenged,” Kizito said during an interview he granted Partners last year. “At some of the committees where I represented UCU as head of department, almost everybody was a professor.”

At the time Kizito was appointed head of department, he had a Master’s in Public Administration and Management (Makerere University), a Postgraduate Diploma in Monitoring and Evaluation (Uganda Management Institute) and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (Makerere University).

A few months into his role as head of department, Kizito was also appointed as coordinator of the Master of Research and Public Policy program, jointly run in 13 African countries and representing UCU on the steering committee of Partnership for African Social and Governance Research, based in Nairobi, Kenya

As head of department, he was central in establishing the Master of Governance and International Relations program, as well as the review of the programs of Master of Research and Public Policy and the Master of Public Administration and Management.

“I would feel that God had granted me opportunities to serve, but I needed the PhD to bolster my capacity,” Kizito said.

“So, going by my previous training and experience, I needed a PhD in Public Policy Evaluation to be ready to maximize any opportunities that would come my way.”

In hindsight, Kizito’s appointment could be attributed to his attaining of a PhD from the University of Pretoria in South Africa last year, further cementing his belief that fortune favors the prepared.

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The arty life of Abeera’s creatives

February 10, 2025News, Students, UCU School of Education#News, #students, Custom-made Ugandan furniture, Industrial fine art, UCU AlumniEdwin Byarugaba

By Irene Best Nyapendi
So, this is how Joan Abeera introduced herself to the world: She took a leap of faith and opened a Facebook page to showcase the work she would do whenever she was off duty. To her surprise, her first post on the social media platform caught the attention of a potential client. People started noticing her posts.

“After my first post on Facebook, a client reached out to me, asking for a similar art piece that I had posted,” Abeera said. It was a TV unit and a mirror.

That positive feedback, the 29-year-old said, fueled her passion, and soon, more orders came in, including projects for an entire apartment. In less than six months, she was earning up to 1 million UGX from a business she started with only 200,000 UGX. (1M UGX = 272.65 USD)

As the business grew, she realized she needed a physical space for her creations. With profits from her work, she rented a two-roomed house that became her showroom. This space was essential for clients who wanted to “see” and “touch” her designs.

With each design, she strives to make something different and amazing, drawing inspiration from her name and her rich cultural heritage.

The name ‘Abeera,’ means ‘pure’ in Rufumbira, a local dialect in southwestern Uganda. She says by naming her business Abeera Creatives, she wanted her brand to reflect her commitment to creating unique, handcrafted pieces that are both amazing and durable.

“Whenever I look at an item, I think of how unique I can create it; if I see a lampshade in metal design, I try to make it differently and better, in wood,” she said.

Her creative process is collaborative. She works closely with a team of four skilled people — a carpenter, a metalworker, a painter, and a support staff. Together, they mix materials and ideas to bring Abeera’s visions to life. For instance, if a client requests a specific shade of grey for a piece, she might mix paints to achieve the perfect color.

Her husband, she says, has been a support pillar in the business: He often refers clients from his network, something Abeera says has helped her grow from strength to strength.

What sets Abeera Creatives apart is its commitment to personalization. She believes every project should reflect the client’s lifestyle and personality. By using locally-sourced materials and collaborating with Ugandan artisans, she creates designs that celebrate both global inspiration and local craftsmanship.

Her most cherished project is a Scandinavian-inspired home, the space is not only functional and elegant, but it also tells the story of its occupants, reflecting their personalities. This project required extensive time and effort, but it remains one of Abeera’s proudest achievements.

Abeera’s most cherished project, a Scandinavian-inspired home.

Like any entrepreneur, Abeera faces challenges in her work. One of the most significant hurdles is managing client expectations. Many clients rely heavily on social media platforms like TikTok and Pinterest for design inspiration.

Often, they request designs that may not be feasible in the materials they desire and she often finds herself negotiating with clients who want the cheapest options.

“Sometimes you get the South African boards which are durable, but the client will say it is expensive because it is twice the price of boards made in Uganda,” she said.

Time constraints also pose a challenge. Clients sometimes expect projects to be completed in unrealistic timelines. To manage this, Abeera communicates clearly about her timelines, often adding extra time to ensure she can deliver quality work without rushing.

While she acknowledges the benefits of artificial intelligence (AI) in keeping up with trends, she believes that true creativity comes from within.

She cautions fellow interior designers against relying too heavily on AI, stressing that while the technology can provide ideas, it cannot execute the detailed work of an interior designer.

For those looking to work with an interior designer, Abeera offers valuable advice, stressing the importance of understanding the purpose of the space, whether it is residential or commercial. She encourages clients to involve designers from the early stages of construction. By working together, they can avoid potential issues, like ensuring there are enough electrical sockets for lighting fixtures.

“Sometimes a client wants lights on her dressing mirror yet there is no socket in her bedroom; had they involved an interior designer earlier, she would have advised a socket close to where the dressing mirror would be,” she said.

Her passion for design is deeply rooted in her childhood – she grew up in a family that valued creativity and craftsmanship. Her mother introduced her to jewelry making. Together, they would select colors and textures, laying the groundwork for Abeera’s keen eye for design.

In 2018, Abeera graduated from Uganda Christian University (UCU) with a Bachelor of Industrial and Fine Art. Her time at UCU was transformative, filled with creative projects that honed her skills. One class project, an interior design exhibition featuring Scandinavian-inspired designs, portrayed her ability to blend cultures and styles.

She credits her education at UCU for shaping her entrepreneurial mindset, instilling in her discipline and the practical skills she acquired in areas such as tailoring, fabric mixing, and creating mood boards.

The exhibitions she participated in at UCU provided hands-on experience, boosting her confidence to present her work and connect with clients. For instance, she was hired to make furniture for the UCU Kingdom View Pavilion where, to meet the preferences of the client, she used metal and mugavu wood to create a rustic, local feel on the folding round and rectangular tables.

With a growing clientele and a passion for design, she envisions opening more showrooms and producing custom-made furniture in-house, offering clients a complete design experience. She hopes to, one day, set up a design academy, where she can mentor young creatives, sharing her knowledge and inspiring the next generation of designers.

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Church urged to embrace more people with disabilities

February 1, 2025News, Students, UCU Alumni#News, #students, UCU AlumniEdwin Byarugaba

UCU Vice Chancellor Aaron Mushengyezi speaking at the congress

By Kefa Senoga
Uganda Christian University (UCU) Vice Chancellor Assoc. Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi has called for a “louder” advocacy for children with special needs, arguing that every child is a blessing from God. Mushengyezi said the “dynamics” surrounding children with special needs have evolved, highlighting their growing prominence in family and school life.

Society has come to recognize that children with special needs are equally human, with emotions, and needs, and are also very clever and talented. Mushengyezi explained to guests during a conference held in Nkoyoyo Hall at the UCU Main Campus in Mukono, on January 13.

The second Annual Special Needs Congress 2025 was held as a collaboration between UCU School of Social Sciences and Promise International, a US-based non-profit organization advocating basic human rights and supporting children with special needs in Uganda.

People who attended the congress. Front-left, wearing hat is Zac Niringiye, a former Anglican assistant bishop of Kampala

While giving a historical context to special needs, Mushengyezi noted that issues concerning children with special needs have been happening over centuries. “When you go back to the Middle Ages, for example, you will notice that children were highly neglected, infant mortality was high, the number of children who died per capita was high and the level of literacy was quite low,” he explained.

“Formal education had not become widespread because in the Middle Ages, it was mainly the church and monasteries that championed education, which mainly focused on basic literacy. A lot of schooling was done at home by the parents and societies, that’s why you often hear them say that it took a village to raise a child,” Mushengyezi noted.

The inaugural special needs congress, which was hosted in February last year focused on fostering interaction with special needs children, along with their parents and teachers. The objective was to gain insights into their challenges and to advocate support.

This year’s congress sought to promote a more inclusive and compassionate church that supports individuals with disabilities and their families. It also aimed to advocate the integration of disability issues into theological education and training, setting a model for holistic ministry and outreach.

Daniel Tulibagenyi, the CEO of Promise International, narrated how the partnership between his organization and UCU came into being. “In 2022, I knocked at the doors of UCU, to see how we could work together, especially within the church, and the Vice Chancellor welcomed us. We signed a Memorandum of Agreement and since then, UCU has opened its doors wide, which is why we are here today.”

Tulibagenyi’s connection to UCU runs deep, as it is his alma mater. He credited the university for laying the strong foundation that has shaped his life and career. “Helping children with special needs is a powerful way to demonstrate our love for Jesus, as they, too, are created in the image of God. The church is meant to be the hope of the world,” he said.

Rev. Andrew David Omona, the Dean of the UCU School of Social Sciences, provided a biblical perspective, reminding the audience: “Genesis 1:27 tells us that we are all created in the image of God. Everyone is wonderfully made and bears his image, regardless of their abilities or disabilities.”

And for that reason, Bishop Jackson Fredrick Balwa, the Assistant Bishop of the Diocese of Kampala, emphasized the importance of addressing the needs of individuals with special needs, particularly children. “God is calling us to advocate for those with special needs. We must work to influence policies that support and uplift them,” he said.

Zac Niringiye, a former Anglican Assistant Bishop of Kampala, noted that children with disabilities are our teachers of the good news of the kingdom of God because “they are the centre of God’s vision of the kingdom of God”.

The Rev. Dr. Simon Masiga, a priest and a lecturer of Religion and Peace Studies at Makerere University in Kampala, emphasized that physical differences do not diminish an individual’s humanity. “People with disabilities are also entitled to normal lives. They deserve justice, self-confidence, and a strong sense of identity,” he said.

Lay reader Kizito Peter from Kisowera Parish near Mukono said the congress had had an impact on him. As one of the church leaders who attended the congress, he pledged to apply the knowledge gained, particularly the strategies for including and engaging individuals with disabilities and children with special needs in church programs.

“In the church I serve, my congregation includes children with special needs. When we involve them in activities like singing in the choir or playing musical instruments, it inspires them and affirms their sense of humanity,” Kizito said.

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Muwanguzi: The accountant who never dreamed of being one

January 22, 2025News, Students, UCU Alumni, UCU School of Business#News, #students, BDO, School of Business, UCU AlumniEdwin Byarugaba

By Pauline Luba
Joshua Muwanguzi had never dreamed of pursuing higher education. Passing through primary and secondary education in Uganda had been a struggle for him. Since he knew well the financial capacity of his parents – who were ministers in church – he didn’t know whether he would be able to complete university.

But God had other plans.

And it was part of those plans that Muwanguzi found himself applying for university education. He had initially dreamed of studying other courses, but fate made him have a change of mind.

“I wanted to pursue a course in architecture or engineering, but the opportunity at Uganda Christian University (UCU) was one I couldn’t afford to miss,” Muwanguzi said during an interview he granted Partners in early January.

UCU had admitted him for a Bachelor of Business Administration course. The next immediate challenge was where the resources to meet the financial demands of the course would come from. It was then that a friend of his parents, inspired by their (his parents’) ministry work, introduced him to UCU Partners — where he could seek out a scholarship opportunity. Muwanguzi’s request was successful and, today, the 31-year-old is an accountant.

Before Muwanguzi joined UCU, he was spending his holidays selling jackfruit and working to support his mother’s restaurant business in Jinja, a district in eastern Uganda. Born into a family of four children, Muwanguzi is the second child of Julius and Margaret Muwanguzi, both church ministers dedicated to their community and faith.

Joshua, as a facilitator at the Aspiring Leaders Forum in Wellington, New Zealand shaping a brighter future, one leader at a time.

From a young age, Muwanguzi’s parents imparted in their son virtues of integrity and hard work. They did not serve only as spiritual guides, but also as administrators for an orphanage, setting an example of leadership and compassion.

“My parents didn’t just talk about faith; they lived it,” Muwanguzi recalls. “They taught us that integrity isn’t just what you do when people are watching — it’s what you do when they aren’t.”

During his time at UCU, Muwanguzi thrived both academically and as a leader. He joined the Honors College – a leadership development program for the top undergraduate students at UCU – where he was paired with the Vice Chancellor at the time, as his mentor.

“Dr. John Senyonyi didn’t just guide me in leadership; he taught me how to carry myself with grace, even in failure.”

Although Muwanguzi once unsuccessfully ran for the office of guild president, he continued to lead initiatives like the entrepreneurship club at the university and developed thick skin against challenges.

After graduating in 2016, he embarked on a career that showcased his versatility and ambition. His first role was with African Queen, a marketing company in Uganda. While this wasn’t directly related to his degree, it was an invaluable experience that taught him adaptability. He later transitioned to BDO, an international accounting firm, where he worked in auditing and pursued a chartered accountant qualification.

It was during his time at BDO that Muwanguzi teamed up with like-minded young professionals who shared his vision for socioeconomic development in Uganda. Together, they prayed, planned, and eventually founded Dream Solutions, a startup focused on empowering entrepreneurs. Around the same time, he met his wife, Pamela, a tech-savvy entrepreneur from New Zealand. Their marriage brought new dimensions to his life and career.

In 2019, Muwanguzi made a bold decision to resign from his job to focus on building Dream Solutions. “We ended up consulting and training organizations like BDO, which I had quit. What started as a small idea has turned into something much bigger.”

When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted global economies, Muwanguzi and Pamela relocated to New Zealand, taking advantage of a special visa for returning citizens’ partners. There, they continued to expand Dream Solutions while raising their two daughters. Joshua also found opportunities to consult for businesses in New Zealand, combining his financial expertise with entrepreneurial spirit. He begun consulting for his wife’s family-owned farm and honey business.

“One thing I’ve learned is that leadership isn’t about titles — it’s about service. Whether I’m coaching startups or raising my daughters, it’s always about giving my best to others,” he says.

Muwanguzi envisions a future where Dream Solutions is a global hub for empowering entrepreneurs. With operations in Uganda and New Zealand, the company aims to foster socioeconomic development and create sustainable solutions for businesses worldwide. “Our goal isn’t just to succeed; it’s to help others succeed alongside us,” he emphasizes.

For Muwanguzi, the scholarship from UCU Partners was more than financial aid; it was a lifeline. It bridged the gap between a boy selling jackfruit on the streets of Jinja and a man building a legacy of impact. “UCU Partners didn’t just sponsor my education; they gave me a chance to dream bigger than I ever thought possible.”

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Innovation of UCU alumnus wins UN, Dubai awards

January 9, 2025News, Students, UCU Alumni, UCU School of Medicine#News, #students, School of Medicine, UCU AlumniEdwin Byarugaba

Samantha receiving the civil society award in Dubai

By Pauline Luba
Freza Nanotech, an invention that could be a game changer for Uganda’s small-scale farmers, has won an innovation award of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations in Rome for pioneering fruit preservation technology. The innovation also won the prestigious Civil Society Award at the 2024 Dubai Solutions Summit.

The awards recognize the company’s innovative fruit shelving technology that leverages nanotechnology to combat post-harvest losses. In a world struggling with food security challenges, the innovation, which preserves fruits and vegetables by releasing a safe organic formulation extending shelf life by 30 days, offers hope and demonstrates the power of homegrown solutions.

Gift Arnold Mugisha, the Chief Operating Officer and co-founder of Freza Nanotech, highlighted the significance of the recognition: “This award not only acknowledges our commitment, but also symbolizes how innovative technological solutions can address global challenges, especially in food security and sustainability.”

The innovation that took Mugisha and his co-founder, Samantha Ainembabazi, two years to develop extends the freshness of fruits and vegetables, allowing farmers to access better markets and reduce waste.

The Prototypes for Humanity; Dubai Future Solutions is renowned for showcasing transformative innovations designed to advance sustainable development worldwide. For Freza Nanotech, clinching the Civil Society Award validates their work and opens up opportunities to scale their innovation to more farmers and markets globally. Their fruit shelving technology has already reached over 150 farmers in Uganda, with tangible results in reducing waste and increasing profitability.

“This recognition is a testament to the difference our technology is making,” said Ainembabazi, a fresh UCU graduate of Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery. She is aspiring to start a medical internship, a mandatory requirement, for all medical graduates in Uganda before they dive into practice.

“We are thrilled that our efforts to empower farmers and improve food security are being celebrated on such a global platform,” Ainembabazi noted.

Freza Nanotech’s core mission stems from addressing the challenges faced by smallholder farmers in Uganda, where agriculture employs over 70% of the population, but suffers from significant post-harvest losses.

By preserving produce, Freza Nanotech’s technology contributes to reducing the environmental burden of food loss while supporting the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, including those on hunger, economic growth, and climate action.

“Efforts like these demonstrate that agrifood systems can be both productive and sustainable, contributing to better nutrition and improved livelihoods in Uganda and beyond,” said QU Dongyu, the Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), during the awards ceremony that took place last month at FAO’s headquarters in Rome, on the sidelines of the 176th session of the FAO council.

Freza Nanotech’s journey to the summit was not without challenges, as they competed against some of the most innovative solutions globally. Their triumph is a testament to the resilience and vision of the team, whose work is now sparking interest from investors, development agencies, and innovators alike.

Backed by their recent recognition, the company aims to expand its reach and adapt the technology for other agricultural products. For Uganda, this milestone inspires future innovators to tackle pressing challenges with bold, creative solutions.

Freza Nanotech’s success is more than just a win for the startup — it’s a victory for Ugandan innovation and a step toward a future where local solutions address global issues.

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Bishop Zoreka’s transition from ‘bad guy’ to faithful servant of God

January 3, 2025Bishop Tucker School of Divinity and Theology, News, Students, UCU Alumni#News, Bishop Tucker School of Theology and Divinity, Kinkiizi Diocese., UCU Alumni, UCU studentsPatty Huston-Holm

Bishop Zoreka and his wife handing over a bible to President Museveni

Dan Zoreka was the second Bishop of Kinkiizi Anglican Diocese, in southwestern Uganda. He has been the prelate of the diocese for the past 14 years. Recently, our writer, Kefa Senoga, travelled to the diocese and had a chat with the alumnus of Uganda Christian University.

Bishop Dan Zoreka of Kinkiizi Anglican Diocese in Uganda never expected to serve the Lord as a cleric. Throughout his childhood, he admired doctors and wanted to be one. However, financial challenges forced him to change career direction.

In 1977, Zoreka sat his Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE), where he earned a First Grade, and an admission into Mbarara High School. However, he could not afford the school fees. He thus had to repeat Primary Seven as he looked for money for his tuition in Senior One. At the time, one was not eligible for admission into Senior One using results more than a year old.

The following year, Zoreka again passed his PLE exams, earning admission into Nyakasura School. Again, he failed to join the school because of lack of tuition.

Zoreka had been paying his own school fees from Primary Three. He says his father was a polygamous man with six wives, so he could not afford fees for all his children.

“I used to vend banana fiber every Friday. I would sell them to the butchers. It is from that money that I would pay my school fees,” Zoreka explained during an interview he granted Uganda Partners at his diocese in southwestern Uganda.

As a result of the failure to meet the financial requirements for secondary school study, he said he even considered giving up on education.

“But in 1979, I decided to repeat for the third time. That’s when my class teacher advised me to opt for teacher training colleges, which offered free education.”

He thus enrolled at St. Augustine’s Teacher Training College in western Uganda to pursue a teaching certificate course. For the four years he studied the course, he returned home only once. Despite studying the course on a bursary, Zoreka needed extra money for upkeep. He thus did menial jobs at the school, and in the community, from which he earned a wage.

“I did work such as cleaning the school compound and harvesting tea in the community; I was a well-known casual laborer in the area.”

After completing his course, Zoreka was employed by the government of Uganda in 1985 as a teacher, but he spent a year without receiving salary. That was the time the country was facing civil strife; hence many public servants were not receiving their salaries.

In 1986, Zoreka was tempted to switch professions. The government was recruiting soldiers, so Zoreka applied to train as one.

“I registered my name and we were instructed to return the next morning at 6:00 a.m. to be transported to another district where the training was to take place. Unfortunately, I drank too much alcohol that night and overslept. By the time I woke up, the team had already left,” he recalls.

In 1987, Bishop Zoreka made another attempt to join the security forces, this time the Uganda Police. However, after presenting his academic certificates, the recruiting officer informed him that the government needed teachers more, so they couldn’t allow him to join the Police.

Still, Zoreka left teaching and started to work as a lumberjack, a job he did for a year, before returning to teaching.

In 1989, when a call for lay readers was announced in their diocese, Zoreka’s mother, a staunch Christian, pressured him to enroll for the course. Though it was against his wishes, he did it to honor his mother’s desire. A lay reader is a person licensed by a bishop to conduct religious services other than the Eucharist.

“I felt like there was no life in the church at the time. I enjoyed nights of dancing, discos, and drinking alcohol,” Zoreka says.

“Even as I sat the interview, I had three cigarettes in my pockets; just the night before, I had spent the evening at the bar drinking. I arrived at the interview with a hangover. If I had been thoroughly checked, probably I would have been disqualified.”

And even after admission, his bad habits followed him. “We would sneak out of the dormitory during our training, to look for alcohol in a nearby town. It was only by God’s grace that we were not caught.”

Bishop Zoreka with the writer, Kefa Senoga

In 1990, Zoreka gave his life to Christ, completely turning his back to smoking and drinking alcohol. He thus became a deacon in 1998 and a priest in 1999.

Upon being ordained a deacon, Zoreka was posted to the cathedral/diocesan headquarters as a curate. Following his priesting in 1999, the bishop at the time, John Ntegyerize, assigned him to the Nyarugunda Parish in Kinkiizi diocese, southwestern Uganda, where he served for one year as the parish priest. It was during his time there that he met Florah Arinaitwe, whom he married the following year.

“We got married on Wednesday August 30, and I reported to UCU to pursue a degree course the following week, on Monday, with my wife.”

At UCU, there was a designated area for married theology students. Unfortunately, when he arrived, all the houses were already occupied.

As a result, Zoreka and his wife occupied the garage of the Rev. Prof Olivia Nasaka Bbanja, who was a lecturer at the Bishop Tucker Theological College at the time. Banja is now the Vice Chancellor of Ndejje University. The garage was the couple’s honeymoon venue, after which Florah returned to their home in Kanungu.

Zoreka served the church in various capacities, eventually being elected the second Bishop of Kinkiizi Anglican Diocese in 2015. He hopes to retire from active service in two years. Anglican bishops in Uganda retire from service when they clock 65 years.

As a bishop, Zoreka has earned a reputation as a developmental leader. The Rev. Bob Mbabazi, the head of communications at Kinkiizi Diocese, said the bishop has focused on building and enhancing infrastructure for various church projects, such as the clergy residence, schools, hospitals, and commercial buildings, including one in Kampala city.

According to Mbabazi, the bishop has lobbied for partnerships with various stakeholders, including Compassion International, which has established six child development centers across the diocese, all overseen by the church.

Florah and Zoreka have four children — the firstborn, is pursuing a degree course at UCU and the second born, is in secondary school at Mengo SS. The third born, is in Primary Four while the youngest, is in Primary Three, at Kabale Primary School.

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