The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda and Chancellor of Uganda Christian University, The Most Rev Dr Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu has charged graduates to strategically position themselves to take advantage of life’s opportunities while preparing for a diverse global marketplace.

Archbishop Kaziimba made the call while presiding over graduation of 1570 students in various disciplines at Uganda Christian University Main Campus in Mukono today.

“The benefits are many if you position yourself right to take advantage of life’s many opportunities. You must be immersed in an experience that provides meaningful opportunities to prove that you are a capable leader of tomorrow by learning how to be a force for good in the world.” Archbishop Kaziimba advised.

He added, “You are expected to approach problems with creativity, preparing for a diverse global marketplace defined by innovation. Uganda Christian University has empowered you to develop the requisite knowledge and skills to achieve your goals outside the classroom.”

He further charged graduates to be passionate about what they choose to do.

“I urge you to be passionate about what you choose to do. If you have a great idea, work at it, don’t give up. The world is currently ablaze with start-ups which have been initiated by young people such as you. Your success shall be measured by the vibrancy and dynamism of your individual ideas. You have been prepared well for this task. I need to remind you again that graduation is not an end in itself but a springboard.” Archbishop Kaziimba said.

He noted that Uganda Christian University is dedicated, through teaching, scholarship, service, spiritual formation, student development and social involvement, to preparing students for thoughtful, productive lives of Christian faith and service in their respective professions and places.

He commended the University Council, Vice Chancellor and the management team, members of staff, students’ government, development partners and other stakeholders for the achievements over the past 25 years and for the immense support given to the University.

The University Vice Chancellor, Associate Professor Aaron Mushengyezi charged the graduates to be faithful Ambassadors and raise the UCU flag high.

“Our dear graduates, go out into the world and raise the UCU flag by demonstrating excellence in word and action, making the most of the knowledge and skills you gained at UCU. Let your light shine at the workplace and strive to be a better leader who makes a difference in the communities. The world needs leaders who will make a difference, who will provide answers to humanity’s challenges.” Prof. Mushengyezi said.

Prof Mushengyezi noted that despite the hard-hitting effects of COVID-19, UCU has registered a number of successes including purchasing a permanent home for Kampala Campus along Musajja Alumbwa Road in Mengo, expansion of the University’s accommodation facilities to Besania hill where students will have access to premium residential space, construction of a parking lot at Kivengere building, and improvements on pedestrian walkways around Kivengere and Maari blocks, e-Campus among others.

Rt Rev Prof Alfred Olwa, the University Council Chairperson commended the student community of UCU for exhibiting the highest level of discipline and called upon them to live a purpose-driven life.

“Your graduation should serve as a launching point, projecting you to wherever your futures are meant to take you, whether you land yourselves a career, take up a trade, or continue your education. This means, that after your graduation, you should be purposeful as to what you would like to do.” Bishop Olwa said.

A total number of 1570 students graduated, 828 females (53%) and 742 males (47%). Of these, 36 obtained First Class degrees. Robert Cadribo, a student of Bachelor of Education, was the overall best student and overall best male student with a CGPA of 4.86. The best overall female student was Zainab Candiru of Bachelor of Education with a CGPA of 4.75. The Best Science student was Florence Kyoyagala of Bachelor of Human Nutrition and Clinical Dietetics, with a CGPA of 4.72 while Robert Cadribo was the Best Arts student.

Former UCU Chancellor, Rt Rev Stanley Ntagali, former Vice Chancellors; Rev Canon Prof. Stephen Noll and Rev Canon Dr. John Senyonyi among other dignitaries attended the graduation ceremony.