Category Archives: UCU School of Education

Bwambale Bernard Molho, UCU alum, at left, with some members of the All-Star Band at the October gala concert marking 15 years for the Brass for Africa NGO

Organization elevates African youth through brass music

UCU Alumni, UCU School of Education, , , ,


Some members of the All-Star Band at the October gala concert marking 15 years for the Brass for Africa NGO
Some members of the All-Star Band at the October gala concert marking 15 years for the Brass for Africa NGO

By Patty Huston-Holm
Saturday night at one venue in central Kampala, Uganda, found a tuba in a wheelbarrow, young women moving with pots on their heads, a comedy skit on how a man should treat a woman and brass instrumentalists playing songs while dancing. 

Brass? Yes. In Uganda? Yes.

Twenty-nine youth with seven types of brass—horn, cornet, baritone, trombone, tuba and the less familiar euphonium and flugelhorn—took center stage in an instrumental, dance and vocal performance on Saturday, Oct. 5.  The mostly Ugandan performers were the focus of a two-hour gala celebration of 15 years for Brass for Africa. 

Bwambale Bernard Molho with Jim Trott, Brass for Africa founder
Bwambale Bernard Molho with Jim Trott, Brass for Africa founder

“When people think of African music, they don’t think of brass,” said Bwambale Bernard Molho. “But maybe they should.” 

Molho, a Uganda Christian University (UCU) School of Education graduate, is the Partner Relations Officer for the British-based, brass-focused NGO and Executive Assistant to Lizzie Burrowes, the non-profit director of music education. Molho, also a former UCU graduate assistant and honours college coordinator, explained how it started with the idea of one British man, Jim Trott. 

“He’s a pilot and passionate about music,” Molho said. “He happened to visit the slums in Kampala during one layover and saw the poor condition of some musical instruments.  At the same time, his son’s school in London was discarding brass that was in better shape than what children here had.”

Trott, who plays the cornet and piano, transported those discarded instruments to Uganda as a start.  From that small beginning in 2009, Brass for Africa has blossomed to 2,000 mostly age 9-24 brass students in Uganda, Rwanda and Liberia. From that pool of music students, around 30 are selected every year to join the inspirational All-Star Band that was chosen for the gala for the second consecutive year. Before a dedication song, Burrowes tearfully talked about two band members who died—one in 2022 and another in 2023. 

Bernard, left, with some All-Star Band members performing at the gala
Bernard, left, with some All-Star Band members performing at the gala

In addition to Trott, roughly 50 current and potential Brass for Africa supporters from Uganda, England, the United States, the Netherlands and Switzerland listened on Oct. 5 to the band’s 12 selections, heard testimonies about the band’s positive impact on the youthful performers and were reminded of how the NGO started and how it operates. The charity has partnered with over 20 organizations, including the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Plan International, Mercury Phoenix Trust, Oxfam and The Elton John AIDS Foundation to deliver programs in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Harps and drums have African origins. Brass is traced to the early 19th century in Britain. From “Eye of the Tiger” to the Beatles’ “Hey Jude” and  “Baba Yetu,” the sound and feel of music at the gala was a blend of European and African tunes with a spattering of African dance in place of traditional band marching.  

“I love music, but I’m not a musician,” Molho, a 2018 UCU Bachelor of Arts alum, said. 

He has a guitar, a violin and a small trumpet that he is trying to learn. A hearing impairment—possibly at birth but noticed when he was 13—renders him deaf in his left ear but does not hinder his music enjoyment. 

“I’m an artist, mostly visual art,” he said. “Art is about music, dance, writing and more.”

At that, Brass for Africa, like many art-connected programs, is about more than music. In addition to tapping into fulfilling individual music potential, the self-esteem focus areas are gender equality, disability inclusion, workforce readiness and community empowerment. 

“Nobody ever said they loved me until Brass for Africa,” one performer told the Oct. 5 audience. 

“People discouraged me,” another ensemble member said. “Brass encouraged me.”

While expats may come in to help with instrument teaching, Brass for Africa is 95% African and operated with counselors and mentors for music as well as for skills such as problem solving, teamwork and leadership. In addition to Molho, other UCU alumni engaged with the NGO are Kabuye Ronald, Kasule Daniel and Amanya Annah. 

With its origin and largest reach in Uganda, the demand for the non-academic social change program spans to Rwanda, Liberia, South Sudan, South Africa, Botswana, Tanzania and Kenya, among others. 

For Molho, the Brass for Africa mission of esteem-building fits with his philosophy and everything else he’s been doing. In addition to his full-time position with Brass, he is a virtual mentor in visual art with a young person in France; he helps review grant applications by changemakers with US-based The Pollination Project; and he has managed a Usanii Village Africa art  initiative in Kasese since July 2020. The Kasese project that Molho started involves sewing, carpentry and making art from discarded items. 

“We call it eco-artistry,” he said of the art component. “Both Brass and Usanii are about empowerment and transforming marginalised communities. 

Due to Molho’s focus with Brass for Africa over the past three years, the Kasese effort, possible because of a Pollination Project grant, has occupied less of his time but is still growing. 

Molho points to UCU’s emphasis on Christian faith, leadership and development as playing a large part in his career success.  

“What leads you?” he asked rhetorically. “God shows me a source of direction. I put in the effort.”

He credits his father, a pastor, for his skill in speaking six languages.  He has been helping with interpretation since age 12. 

“Most people don’t think of writing or languages as art, but it is,” Molho said. “How you present yourself is an art.  How our brass ensemble students present themselves is art. For most of these youth, this is a platform they wouldn’t otherwise have.”

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Uganda Christian University has many alumni stories like this one.  To support  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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Challote Mbabazi on the day she graduated with a master's degree

‘Education adds value to a person’

News, Students, UCU Alumni, UCU School of Education, , ,


Challote Mbabazi on the day she graduated with a master's degree
Challote Mbabazi on the day she graduated with a master’s degree

By Kefa Senoga
(final of four parts – UCU postgraduate focus)

By the time Challote Mbabazi completed her Bachelor of Arts with Education from Uganda Christian University (UCU) in 2020, she had saved up to sh5million ($1,357) from the pocket money her parents gave her during her undergraduate studies.

This savings became her lifesaver for the next two years – especially since the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 led to the global closure of operations, including Ugandan schools where Mbabazi would be employed. Those places she planned to teach were shut down  until 2022.

Challote Mbabazi
Challote Mbabazi

However, as expected, the demand for food did not wane during that two-year period. The natural choice of a business for Mbabazi was setting up a grocery shop, which she did near the UCU Main Campus in Mukono. But when the business expanded, she relocated it to Hoima, her hometown in western Uganda. That business is still located there to date.

While the food store income was sufficient, Mbabazi’s satisfaction with the work was not. She enrolled for a UCU postgraduate program in Master of Human Resource Management in Education.  

“Education adds value to a person,” Mbabazi says, adding that she hopes to leverage her postgraduate knowledge to grow her business.

She is currently employed as an ICT teacher at St. Cyprian High School in Kyabakadde, Mukono district. 

From her master’s course, Mbabazi says she has learned invaluable lessons on interpersonal relations, particularly in working with teaching staff, non-teaching staff, and managers within the education sector.

“I now understand better how to retain and develop talented people in any kind of organization, especially for schools,” Mbabazi says.

She also highlights mentoring as a key takeaway from her course. She had already started mentoring students, particularly those in the ICT club where she serves as the patron at her current school.

Mbabazi believes that schools must consider hiring a human resource professional within their administration, something uncommon in Ugandan schools. As a result, headteachers typically handle HR responsibilities in most schools.

Mbabazi in her shop during the lockdown
Mbabazi in her shop during the lockdown

Through the skills and knowledge that Mbabazi has gained in her master’s course, she says she has learned that HR managers are trained to create productive workplaces that can lead to improved outcomes.

Despite the widespread bias against a career in teaching due to low pay, Mbabazi argues that it’s important for more people to join the profession, to be able to nurture the future generation. 

One of the notable challenges Mbabazi points out during her graduate studies is the struggle to balance work with school.

“Sometimes you would have work assignments to handle, with a proposal to defend and course work to hand in, and yet you also are the teacher on duty,” she noted.

And that was not the only challenge Mbabazi faced as a working student. She also had challenges with balancing school and her role as a wife and mother. The 28-year-old mother of two says that in such circumstances, it’s important to remember that you have interests and ambitions of your own, in addition to being a mother. This understanding inspires you to be determined and to make appropriate plans. 

While pursuing her undergraduate studies at UCU, Mbabazi competed for guild presidency, but was unsuccessful. She, however, was appointed a leader in charge of education matters in the university’s guild government of that year.  

Mbabazi explains that her aspirations for leadership didn’t end there. She remains determined to pursue leadership roles and sees herself serving in a public office later in life. 

She completed her primary education at Bwikya Primary School in Hoima, then attended Jinja Secondary School for her O’level, proceeding to Mpoma Girls School, where she completed her A’level.

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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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Busobozi Ian John Baptist, right, coaches a group of students in the UCU Writing Center.

UCU Writing Center coaches share how they help others

Faculty of Engineering, Design & Technology, News, Students, UCU School of Business, UCU School of Education, , , , ,


Busobozi Ian John Baptist, right, coaches a group of students in the UCU Writing Center.
Busobozi Ian John Baptist, right, coaches a group of students in the UCU Writing Center.

(With a team of 29 dedicated student coaches from various schools and faculties, Uganda Christian University’s writing center, located within the Mukono campus’  Hamu Mukasa Library, plays a key role in academic enrichment. Officially opened in October 2022 and currently under the leadership of Kajubi Martin, the acting manager, the center strives to help students amplify their writing skills, scholarly voice and academic success. Christine Mirembe, a student in the School of Journalism, Media and Communication, got some insights into the center through interviews with four coaches.)

Christy Asiimwe – School of Education
Christy Asiimwe, alongside Joshua Gira, is working to develop an English language program tailored specifically for international students.

Christy Asiimwe
Christy Asiimwe

“I am excited about the curriculum,” Christy, an English major in the UCU School of Education,  said. “I would love to do a masters in Education, Management and Curriculum Development using experience from the writing center as a base. I wish to have an online presence where I teach English.”

Having a background in the French language as part of her high school curriculum has accorded Christy an advantage when tutoring students from Francophone countries. While she encourages them to speak and write English, she greets them in French. 

“I am assigned students based on their needs and my competencies,” said Christy, who has been a tutor, working twice a week for 90 minutes each, since 2023. “As much as I would have loved to engage more with my students, my busy schedule does not allow more.”

She credits supportive colleagues, particularly Joshua, also an English major, for any success she has. 

“Working at the writing center has been very fruitful,” Christy said.  “I cherish the bonds I’ve built with students. Watching them grow and being part of their journey brings me immense joy and fulfillment as a teacher. Helping them fit into the society by engaging them with the English language is an opportunity the writing center has availed.”

Two improvements she suggested are more tutor trainings and stronger collaboration with the International Students Association.

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Milton Abel Opio – School of Business
“Writing should be a compulsory skill for every student; its power speaks a lot more if we go into details. Effective communication is crucial in all fields, business inclusive.”

These are the words of Milton Abel Opio, a writing center coach and student in the School of Business. He has a passion for writing and helping others share his passion. He is grateful that Martin Kajubi recruited him as a tutor in February 2023. 

“I tutor accounting in business administration because that is where my strength is channeled,” Milton said. “I find it more transparent; it is way more than just numbers, something that most people do not know. My sessions are usually two to four hours, depending on my students’ workload and their ability to grasp concepts.”

Milton Abel Opio
Milton Abel Opio

Helping others is a win-win as he has discovered improvements in his own work as he does more reading and research to have a better grasp of concepts and to share with those who he  tutors. His own writing about finance has multiplied. 

“Tutoring at the writing center has been amazing; you get to meet and interact with people from all walks of life,” Milton said. “I have hence used this space to learn, unlearn and re-learn from various people, making me better.”

He cited an example – “one of my most rewarding moments” –  of working with a student who had difficulties structuring essays and how together, they organized ideas, developed thesis statements and incorporated evidence.  

He acknowledged that time management has been difficult as he juggles his own work with time to help others with theirs. 

“I try to maintain a schedule that allocates time for my personal assignments and office duties,” Milton said. “Multitasking has become the standard practice. I would love to continue tutoring. The past year has been amazing and with unwavering support, I know there is still room for me to learn and create impact where passion lies. Learning never stops.”

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Busobozi Ian John Baptist  – Faculty of Engineering, Design and Technology
Before coming to the writing center in September 2023, Busobozi Ian John Baptist had a reputation for sharing knowledge with colleagues. He believes that teaching has rewards for both teacher and student. 

“You can teach someone; they get 90% and you get 80%,” he said. 

With average sessions running for two-to-three hours each, he guides groups of five to six students.  

“Engineering requires a lot of time and dedication,” Baptist said. “I recall conducting a study session that lasted from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. during which we thoroughly reviewed all the work from across all the course units in preparation for exams.”

Prior to all sessions, he gives students a heads-up on what will be discussed and when. This allows prior preparation, hence making the work more effective. Meeting and interacting with a diverse audience is an opportunity tutoring has provided.  

Baptist has been impacted by the “learning by teaching” principle, where teaching others has helped him solidify his own understanding of concepts and retention of knowledge. He grasps concepts much better and attributes his good grade-point average to this.

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Isooba Mbeiza Rachel  – Faculty of Engineering, Design and Technology
Since childhood, Isooba Mbeiza Rachel has enjoyed passing on what she knows to others. 

“Helping someone understand concepts brings me joy,” she said. 

Isooba Mbeiza Rachel
Isooba Mbeiza Rachel

Since assuming her writing center coach role in September 2023, she has met with one-to-two students for two hours each week. While helpful, she feels sessions could be more beneficial if they were longer and more frequent. 

“Mr. Martin Kajubi, our director, is amazing, helpful and very understanding,” Rachel said. “It is such a blessing to be part of the writing center. People are very kind, friendly and embrace teamwork. Generally, the atmosphere is very conducive for all.”

She also lauded the 2024 writing week that exposed students to different types of literature. 

As with other tutors, balancing their own academics with tutor duties can be challenging, according to Rachel who added that the benefits outweigh obstacles. 

“Witnessing the great academic impact the writing center has had on the student body and my passion for teaching others, I would love to continue working with the writing center,” she said. 

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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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Some coaches wear writing center shirts outside the library. Pictured left to right are: Bidali Bosco (Economics and Statistics); Mulondo Shamiru (Accounting and Finance); Acio Rebecca (Business Administration); Opio Milton (Business Administration); Christy Assimwe (Education); Rugambwa Isaac (LLB); Kiggudde Emmanuel (Social Work and Social Administration); and Esther Nashuha (Social work and Social Administration).

UCU Writing Center: Enhancing students’ academic journey

Journalism, News, Students, UCU School of Education, UCU School of Journalism, Media and Communication, , , ,


Some coaches wear writing center shirts outside the library. Pictured left to right are: Bidali Bosco (Economics and Statistics); Mulondo Shamiru (Accounting and Finance); Acio Rebecca (Business Administration); Opio Milton (Business Administration); Christy Assimwe (Education); Rugambwa Isaac (LLB); Kiggudde Emmanuel (Social Work and Social Administration); and Esther Nashuha (Social work and Social Administration).
Some coaches wear writing center shirts outside the library. Pictured left to right are: Bidali Bosco (Economics and Statistics); Mulondo Shamiru (Accounting and Finance); Acio Rebecca (Business Administration); Opio Milton (Business Administration); Christy Assimwe (Education); Rugambwa Isaac (LLB); Kiggudde Emmanuel (Social Work and Social Administration); and Esther Nashuha (Social work and Social Administration).

By Yasiri J. Kasango
Uganda Christian University (UCU) has a longstanding commitment to improving student writing skills, a crucial part of the university’s academic fabric. This commitment is embodied in the UCU Writing Center, which, since its inception in 2022, has played a pivotal role in this pledge across various genres and disciplines. 

Martin Kajubi, acting manager of the Writing Center, plays a fundamental role in the pledge, overseeing coaches who help students refine their ideas and perfect their drafts. 

A 2016 UCU graduate with a bachelor’s degree in languages and literature and a student pursuing his master’s degree in strategic communications, Kajubi is a passionate advocate for writing. Prof. Tom Deans of the University of Connecticut has served as Kajubi’s mentor, helping him publish several articles with the International Writing Center Journal. Deans, director of a writing center at his American university,  has spent time on the ground and virtually to help develop a UCU model that Kajubi wished he had as an undergraduate student. 

Kajubi Martin, left, in session with some students at the writing center
Kajubi Martin, left, in session with some students at the writing center

“When I was studying, I used to struggle on how to approach writing and other assignments on my own and with friends, since we didn’t have a support system like this,”  he said. 

Kajubi, who hails from Masaka,  says his experience while studying for his bachelor’s degree is part of his inspiration to help students develop their ideas and put them into writing. Kajubi says he has zeal for academic writing.

The UCU center, housed within the Mukono campus library, is extremely important for international students, many of whom struggle with English ability.

“I’ve had challenging moments with international students, particularly those who are not fluent in English,” Kajubi noted. “However, the training we received from Professor Deans has equipped us to help these students improve their English writing skills.” 

The center, which has 29 coaches, attempts to pair students with similar ethnicity to guide them in their writing.

Prof. Deans conducted workshops on nurturing young writers and enhancing writing skills of prospective writing center staff, especially writing and study skills for lecturers in March 2022,  in preparation for the launch of the center in October 2022. The trained team led by Martin Kajubi has been  instrumental in the success of the Writing Center. The center’s creation was supported by the UCU Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, and Bukenya David, the librarian, who designated a tutoring space within the Hamu Mukasa Library.

As of the summer of 2024, over 200 students from different UCU schools/faculties had been assisted by the Writing Center.

Despite its successes, the Writing Center faces significant challenges, primarily related to staffing and funding. Currently, the center relies heavily on student coaches who volunteer an average of three hours a week, limiting the number of students who can be helped. The Center is designed to allocate each student 30 minutes per coaching session with the reality that most sessions go longer. 

“Ideally,  each coach  can only assist about nine students per week in one-on-one sessions,” Kajubi said. “With the high demand, it’s challenging to meet all the students’ needs.”

Additionally, the Writing Center operates largely on donations, such as those from Uganda Partners. 

“We are working towards having the university formally integrate the Writing Center into its budget to ensure sustainable support,” Kajubi stated.

Looking ahead, Martin envisions a Writing Center where all students who seek help can be attended to sufficiently and promptly.

“I hope to recruit more coaches and ensure they are compensated for their time,” he said.  “This will allow us to accommodate more students and provide consistent support.” 

The Writing Center’s impact on students is profound, transforming their approach to writing from a mere academic requirement to an opportunity for personal and intellectual growth.

“I want students to view writing as a chance to express their ideas, not just an obligation to fulfill coursework requirements,” said Martin, who also lectures about writing in various courses at UCU. “Good writing skills enable students to communicate their ideas effectively, which can take them far in their academic and professional journeys.”

Martin’s passion for writing and dedication to the Writing Center is evident in his ability to balance his roles as a lecturer, manager, and writer. He attributes his success to meticulous planning and a strong support system.

“Proper planning and dedication are crucial,” he said. “I also rely on a team of student coaches  who play administrative roles in my absence, ensuring the center operates smoothly.”

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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.

Also, follow us on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram and Facebook

UCU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, and Graham Yoko, the CEO of the Accelerated Education Enterprise (AEE) sign MoU in Durban, South Africa.

UCU to train teachers of faith-based curriculum

Bishop Tucker School of Divinity and Theology, News, UCU School of Education, ,


UCU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, and Graham Yoko, the CEO of the Accelerated Education Enterprise (AEE) sign MoU in Durban, South Africa.
UCU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, and Graham Yoko, the CEO of the Accelerated Education Enterprise (AEE) sign MoU in Durban, South Africa.

By Kefa Senoga
Following a recently signed partnership agreement between Uganda Christian University (UCU) Vice Chancellor, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, and Graham Yoko, the CEO of the Accelerated Education Enterprise (AEE) in Durban, South Africa, UCU is set to launch a study program designed to train teachers for schools following the Accelerated Christian Education (ACE) Curriculum.

According to Dr. Mary Kagoire, the Dean of UCU School of Education, UCU signed the MoU with AEE because the latter manages the ACE curriculum in Africa, including Uganda.

“Institutions throughout Africa that implement the ACE curriculum receive their teaching and learning materials, as well as support, from AEE,” Kagoire explained.

AEE offers Christian education that inspires faith and guides children towards a meaningful relationship with Christ, with the intention of children being secure in their identity and better equipped to face the challenges of the modern world.

UCU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, addressing members on the day the MoU was signed in Durban.
UCU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, addressing members on the day the MoU was signed in Durban.

Kagoire said the ACE curriculum is a personalized system of instruction, where the learners are given instruction materials they use to study at their own pace. The instruction materials have integrated biblical values..

AEE has been providing Christian education solutions to schools and homeschools since 1983 through globally-recognized curricula and education solutions tailored to Africa’s unique needs. It seeks to empower and impact Africa by delivering access to world-class Christian education solutions that are innovative and relevant to the continent.

According to Kagoire, every topic a child learns in the ACE curriculum has a related Bible verse. Being a university founded on Christian principles, AEE found it in a better position to support the faith-based program. 

The implementation of the collaboration between the two entities will commence once AEE trains UCU teaching staff on how to instruct the teachers or facilitators of the ACE curriculum. After the training, expected by early 2025, UCU will start promoting the ACE-training diploma program they are set to design, before submission to the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) for accreditation.

“We are also exploring the possibility of starting continuous professional training programs whereby in case of any adjustments or changes, we can keep on training the ACE teachers,” Kagoire added, noting that a working committee had been established to actualize the Memorandum of Understanding between UCU and AEE.

The diploma course will be available to already trained teachers, as well as individuals passionate about teaching.

“We want the teachers or experts in different skills because all we are giving them are the different pedagogical skills,” Kagoire explained, noting that the partnership comes as a significant step for UCU because it will be the first university to offer the program in Africa. And the university seeks to offer services to Uganda and the whole of Africa, especially through online classes. However, Kagoire said for that to happen, they will need support in terms of computers and the necessary software for online classes. 

According to Kagoire, the number of schools partaking in the ACE curriculum is increasing because many parents are interested in their children receiving a biblical foundation in their education. Uganda is among the more than 20 countries in the sub-Saharan Africa with the ACE program. Currently, 67 schools are under the ACE program in the country.

There is an increase in demand for ACE schools, especially among many of the church schools, including All Saints Cathedral School in Kampala, which is now an ACE school.

ACE runs from pre-school up to grade 12 and AEE oversees the testing and assessment of the learners enrolled in the curriculum. However, in Uganda, there is an arrangement in place where the Uganda National Examinations Board does the “process of equalization.”

Kagoire further remarked: “Now that they have handed the bit of training and developing of facilitators to us, we shall see a lot of potential in growth.” 

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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.

Also, follow us on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram and Facebook

Martha Nanjuki Najuka, a fourth-year student of Bachelor of Laws, guides pupils on how to make reusable pads.

No more stains for girls in northeastern Uganda

News, Students, UCU School of Education, UCU School of Social Sciences


Martha Nanjuki Najuka, a fourth-year student of Bachelor of Laws, guides pupils on how to make reusable pads.
Martha Nanjuki Najuka, a fourth-year student of Bachelor of Laws, guides pupils on how to make reusable pads.

By Irene Best Nyapendi
At Kalotom Primary School in northeastern Uganda, Patricia (full identity withheld) started her menstrual cycle with no knowledge what the blood discharge was about and that it had stained her skirt. The girl, age 14, was not only confused but shattered emotionally by classmates who mocked her. 

Gerald Emmanuel Abura, the brains behind the “Pad a Girl” initiative
Gerald Emmanuel Abura, the brains behind the “Pad a Girl” initiative

“I was in class when I heard the girls and boys laughing at me, saying my dress was stained,” Patricia said. “I didn’t know. When I saw the blood, I felt embarrassed. Tears just flowed down my cheeks.”

At home, Patricia’s mother says she has no money to buy her daughter sanitary pads. As a result, the teen resorts to catching the discharge with old pieces of cloth. On days when the flow is too heavy, she stays away from school, hence missing class. 

Patricia is not alone. Hers is a story of many. 

Elizabeth (full identity withheld), a Senior Four student at St. Daniel Comboni in Napak District, also uses old pieces of cloth.   

On days when Elizabeth runs out of cloth, she relies on more frequent bathing. Additionally, for her, this first period marked the onset of a battle against cultural pressure to be a woman – get married, have babies. This, she is told, is a solution to the embarrassment of bleeding and no money to afford pads.

To finance her education but not pads, Elizabeth brews and sells local alcohol.

“My friends always tell me to get a boyfriend who will buy me pads,” Elizabeth said. “Sometimes it gets really hard and it hurts when I don’t have any spare clothes to use.” 

Students of Matany Primary listening to the UCU team
Students of Matany Primary listening to the UCU team

Lillian, a pupil at Matany Primary School in Napak, has relied on pieces of cloth from her mother’s old bed sheets every time she’s in her periods.  When the periods of the 16-year-old start unexpectedly at school, she ties a sweater around her waist and immediately returns home. 

The stories of Lillian, Elizabeth and Patricia exemplify the silent suffering of many adolescent girls for whom poverty denies the basic dignity of menstrual hygiene.

A 2020 report by Uganda’s Ministry of Education and Sports says one out of every four girls aged 12 to 18 drops out of school upon the onset of menstruation, leading to the increase in absenteeism rates from 7% to 28% during their menstrual cycle.

Jackline Atim, the Deputy Headteacher of Matany Primary School, is a witness to the harsh reality faced by adolescent girls.

“It is a common thing here for girls to lack pads,” Atim said. “Desperation drives some of them to consider dropping out.”

However, amidst this suffering, somehow, Good

A pupil shows off a pad she received from the UCU team
A pupil shows off a pad she received from the UCU team

Samaritans, once in a while, provide hope. One example was the recent visit to the area by students of Uganda Christian University (UCU) under the “Pad a Girl” initiative. This initiative helps financially-stressed girls in their menstrual periods stay in school by providing for them and teaching them how to make reusable sanitary towels.

Led by Gerald Emmanuel Abura, a UCU student pursuing Bachelor of Social Work and Social Administration, the initiative was borne by the experience that Abura’s female classmate faced many years ago.

“My friend got up from her seat, and little did she know that her skirt was stained,” Abura narrates. “I was in shock when other students started laughing at her, instead of helping her.”

Abura’s friend didn’t return to school again. 

On March 22, Abura and 26 other UCU students visited three schools in northeastern Uganda — Matany Primary School, St. Daniel Comboni Secondary School and Kalotom Primary School. For this outreach, UCU provided transport and contributed towards meals and accommodation for the team that traveled to northeastern Uganda.

A UCU student donating household items to members of the community
A UCU student donating household items to members of the community

They taught both teachers and students how to make reusable pads, and also distributed the materials for making pads. The outreach also involved lessons on the law, menstrual health and the importance of education

The students distributed 600 reusable pads and 768 packets of disposable pads, ensuring that no girl misses school due to lack of a sanitary towel.  The charity benefited more than 300 students, over 100 community members, including 41 widows, and more than 100 church members. 

Irene Nabwire Ojambo, UCU’s head of the Counseling Department, said the “Pad a Girl” initiative extends beyond supplying pads. The initiative teaches girls how to track their menstrual cycles, empowering them to take control of their health and education.

Miriam Teko, one of the teachers at Kalotom Primary School, said: “Some parents do not provide for their children. I’m so grateful to UCU students who have given our students pads.” 

Grace Agape Asiimah, a final-year student of Bachelor of Laws at UCU, used the opportunity to teach the students about their rights. “You have a right to education. Don’t work when you should be in school.”

The UCU students also reached out to the members of the community, distributing shoes, clothes, and other household items. 

Asiimah Onyang Lillian, a mother struggling to make ends meet after her husband abandoned her, expressed gratitude for the support received.

“Every day is a struggle for survival, but thanks to the UCU students, who have given me clothes, pads, soap and sugar,” she said. “I feel blessed amidst my hardships.”

Last year, the “Pad a Girl” initiative was in Bukwe, central Uganda, for the same purpose. This year’s campaign was funded by Period Equity, Kisoboka Africa – It’s possible, Compassion Uganda, UCU students and staff.

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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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Lekobwamu Mukyelule - Theology Student

UCU students, staff share perspectives on Lent

Bishop Tucker School of Divinity and Theology, Faculty of Public Health, Nursing and Midwifery, UCU School of Education, Uganda Partners


By Bena Nekesa
As the campus of Uganda Christian University (UCU) prepared for the February 14 to March 28, 2024, period of Lent, students and staff alike acknowledged the spiritual and academic benefits that this season offers. Lent, a 40-day period preceding Easter, holds deep meaning for many within the university community. 

Lent is observed in many Christian churches as a time to commemorate the last week of Jesus’ life, his suffering (passion) and his death through various observances and services of worship. For UCU, a Christian institution established by the Church of Uganda in 1997, Lent is a time designed to be honored with prayers, fasting, and self-denial, all in the pursuit of drawing closer to God. 

During Lent, the Mukono campus of UCU reinforces reverence. For many individuals, Lent is not merely a tradition but a transformative journey. It is a time to purify the soul, deepen faith, and cultivate discipline both spiritually and academically. 

In 2024, six UCU students and faculty shared their perspectives and insights on the impact of Lent on their lives. Perspectives below reflect spiritual devotion and academic dedication, embodying the holistic approach to education and faith at UCU.

Lekobwamu Mukyelule - Theology Student
Lekobwamu Mukyelule – Theology Student

Lent, for Lekobwamu, is a time of solemn reflection and discipline. He views it as an opportunity to purify the soul’s desires towards divine beauty and truth through prayer and fasting, mirroring Jesus’ own fast in the Wilderness. In his eyes, Lent embodies spiritual growth, sacrifice, and generosity, echoing Romans 12:1. (So then, my friends, because of God’s great mercy to us, I appeal to you: Offer yourselves as a living sacrifice to God, dedicated to his service and pleasing to him. This is the true worship that you should offer.)

Dorothy Cherop - Theology Student
Dorothy Cherop – Theology Student

Dorothy finds Lent spiritually enriching, allowing her more time for Bible study, church services and even mission work. Academically, the period fosters concentration on coursework and group discussions, illustrating the balance between spiritual and academic pursuits.

Martin Kajubi - Writing and Study Skills Teacher
Martin Kajubi – Writing and Study Skills Teacher

Martin emphasizes Lent’s role in fostering spiritual discipline through fasting, drawing parallels with Isaiah 58:6. (The kind of fasting I want is this: Remove the chains of oppression and the yoke of injustice, and let the oppressed free,). He sees Lent as a dedicated period for self-reflection, repentance, and spiritual growth, leading to improved focus and discipline academically. The resilience cultivated during Lent aids in overcoming academic challenges, aligning with Proverbs 16:3.(Ask the LORD to bless your plans, and you will be successful in carrying them out.)

Harriet Asiimwe - Chaplain
Harriet Asiimwe – Chaplain

Harriet highlights Lent’s significance in drawing closer to God, citing Matthew 17:21.(How be it this kind goeth not out by prayer and fasting). She sees Lent as a time for spiritual battles, overcoming temptations and seeking renewal. Academically, Lent provides a platform for interdisciplinary exploration, stimulating critical thinking about faith and society.

Derrick Wepondi - Higher Education Certificate Student
Derrick Wepondi – Higher Education Certificate Student

Derrick explains Lent as a period of fasting, reflection, and spiritual preparation, drawing individuals closer to God and rejuvenating the spirit. Academically, Lent fosters self-discipline, aiding in gaining mastery over desires and habits, echoing the sentiments of 1 Corinthians 9:27.(I harden my body with blows and bring it under complete control, to keep myself from being disqualified after having called others to the contest.).

Ayikoru Scovia - Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition and Dietetics (BSHND) Student
Ayikoru Scovia – Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition and Dietetics (BSHND) Student

Scovia values Lent for its emphasis on self-reflection, repentance, and spiritual growth. She sees Lent as an opportunity to deepen faith through prayers and acts of charity, leading to improved study habits and reduced stress academically.

Whether reflections, wisdom or the experiences, Lent at UCU is designed to be a season of growth, renewal and unwavering faith. As students and faculty  embrace this sacred time, they carry with them the hope of spiritual and academic excellence, echoing the sentiments of Matthew 6:21 – “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

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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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Christy Assimwe is an intern at an international school.

UCU students share internship experiences

News, Students, UCU School of Business, UCU School of Education, UCU School of Journalism, Media and Communication


Many students from the Uganda Christian University (UCU) Main/Mukono Campus and other campuses and constituent colleges are engaged in internships at different places of work. The internships are intended to enable students gain work experience while satisfying requirements for their university qualifications. Pauline Luba talked to some education, business and journalism students currently doing internships to learn their perceptions of this knowledge and training.

 

Christy Assimwe is an intern at an international school.
Christy Asiimwe is an intern at an international school.

Christy Asiimwe, Bachelor of Arts in Education, third year, main campus. Intern at Acorns International School.

I am having a good experience. It is great that I get to serve as an intern at an international school. Due to the differences in the curriculum, many national universities will advise one to stick to a school that teaches the national curriculum. However, I like the fact that I will be able to learn about the International Baccalaureate curriculum so that I can see how it fits in our new national curriculum. I also like the exposure and the supportive environment. It has taken me some time to get a feel of what it means to work in the classroom. But I know I will, soon. 

 

Ninsiima Barbra looks forward to improving her accounting skills.
Ninsiima Barbra looks forward to improving her accounting skills.

Ninsiima Barbra, Diploma in Business Administration, Second year Bishop Barham University College,  Intern at Pride Microfinance, Kabale branch.

I will be spending two months as an intern at this microfinance institution. We are two UCU students here. To get here, I have to travel four kilometers (2.5 miles), which is quite far, but I am determined to make it happen without any challenges. I look forward to improving my accounting skills and understanding the banking system.  

 

Jonathan Okello wishes he could continue working after the internship.
Jonathan Okello wishes he could continue working after the internship.

Jonathan Okello, Bachelor of Arts in Education, third year, main campus. Intern at Mpoma School, Satellite Campus.

I was welcomed to the school well. There are other interns from different other institutions. At such postings, one can easily tell a student from UCU, based on how they dress and conduct themselves. The challenge we sometimes face is that since we have one more semester to study, we have to leave the schools and return to the university yet in some cases, some of the schools would like to retain us as staff. It feels like there will be a gap left when we return to the university. The co-operation and guidance from the other staff members at the school have been exceptional.

 

Dickson Twecungwire likes the fact that he gets to write articles for the hospital newsletters and press releases.
Dickson Twecungwire likes the fact that he gets to write articles for the hospital newsletters and press releases.

Dickson Twecungwire, Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication, third year Bishop Barham University College. Intern at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, communications department.

My earlier days of internship first proved a challenge because at the university, we were taught the theory regarding public relations, which I am majoring in. Now, here, you have to put what you learned into practice. I like the fact that I get to write articles for the hospital newsletters and press releases. I also like that I get to do graphic design work. I’m currently working hard so that I can impress the management here and get retained as full-time staff.

 

Ainembabazi Shivan is an intern at her former school.
Ainembabazi Shivan is an intern at her former school.

Ainembabazi Shivan, Bachelor of Arts in Education, third year Bishop Barham University College. Intern at St. Theresa’s Girls School, Kanungu District.

I am an intern at a school where I was a student. And now I get to go back and share my knowledge with the students. The students here are quite friendly, which makes the working environment welcoming. Since this is my last internship before graduation, I hope to gain all the necessary skills and the experience that will enable me to succeed in the world of work.

 

Aaron Gamushabe has been posting content on the university website.
Aaron Gamushabe has been posting content on the university website.

Aaron Gamushabe, Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication, third year Bishop Barham University College. Intern at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

I like the fact that there are people ready to guide me, especially my supervisor. The team is also quite friendly. I have learned many new things, such as posting content on the university website, and writing reports. I hope to get more practical skills and come out as a real professional who is ready for the world of work.

Ainembabazi Annah says the work environment is welcoming.
Ainembabazi Annah says the work environment is welcoming.

Ainembabazi Annah, Bachelor of Arts in Education, third year, Bishop Barham University College. Intern at Rwentobo High School.

This is a private school in Ntungamo district, western Uganda. The work environment is welcoming and we are learning quite many things as interns. There are some things that we never imagined in the world of work, but with the internship, we get the real experience of what it means to be in the world of work. For instance, we can only leave the workplace after 5 p.m. Now, that is something I did not expect, but thank God, I am now getting to learn it.

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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.

Also, follow us on X (Twitter), Instagram and Facebook

John Vianney Ahumuza, UCU alum working on his doctorate degree research focused on Uganda refugees, wears a traditional Ghanaian shirt. His PhD course is at the University of Ghana.

Alum journey from teacher to refugee researcher

News, Students, UCU Alumni, UCU School of Education


John Vianney Ahumuza, UCU alum working on his doctorate degree research focused on Uganda refugees, wears a traditional Ghanaian shirt. His PhD course is at the University of Ghana.
John Vianney Ahumuza, UCU alum working on his doctorate degree research focused on Uganda refugees, wears a traditional Ghanaian shirt. His PhD course is at the University of Ghana.

By Pauline Luba
Beyond imparting academic knowledge, John Vianney Ahumuza has been a teacher espousing a lot of both life and school values. It’s a calling he gleaned from his parents, Joseph and Mary Bagambe — both primary school teachers — who ensured their three children loved learning just like they loved teaching. 

“He was a brilliant and inquisitive boy,” Mary says of her now 43-year-old son. “As a child, Ahumuza used to ask many questions, even though he studied in rural schools. We once saw a beautiful bird that was singing, and he asked if that was the preacher of all the other birds.”

In 2004, Ahumuza made history in his village in the western Uganda district of Rukungiri by becoming the fourth person to acquire a degree. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Education at Uganda Christian University (UCU).

Initially, Ahumuza had hoped to pursue a course in law. However, he says the marks he garnered in Senior Six national examinations and his parents teaching salaries could not guarantee him an opportunity in that field. A course in education became the natural choice.

“I love teaching and, along the way, I discovered that reading gives one a lot of opportunities. From childhood, academics were always instilled in us,” Ahumuza explained. 

He attended Kishonga Primary School, which was 2km (1.2 miles) away from his home. From Kishonga, Ahumuza went to St. Gerald’s High School, also in Rukungiri, and then St. Mary’s College Rushoroza, in Kabale district, south-western Uganda, before joining UCU, where he was one of the student leaders. In 2012, he enrolled for a Master of Arts in Peace and Conflict Studies at Makerere University. 

From that foundation, Ahumuza has scaled the education ladder, and is currently winding up with his research for a PhD course he is pursuing at the University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, which hosts over 50,000 students, with 7,500 of those graduate students. The scholarship, which seeks to develop 30 PhDs in Africa, is offered at three universities in the continent — the University of Ghana, Makerere University in Uganda and a university in South Africa. 

With his topic “The Refugee Question in Ugandan History, 1942-2010,” Ahumuza believes his research will, in addition to contributing to the body of knowledge on the subject, also help to harvest indigenous knowledge to enable the creation of appropriate policies to help in the response to refugee-related issues. 

Ahumuza’s choice of the subject of refugees in Uganda is not by accident. For many years, the country has hosted refugees and asylum-seekers from more than 10 countries, such as Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, Rwanda, Eritrea, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burundi. Many of the refugees and asylum-seekers run away from conflicts in their countries.

As of December 31, 2023, Uganda had 1,615,162 refugees and asylum-seekers, according to statistics by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Of these, over 1.5 million were refugees, with South Sudan responsible for over 900,000 of that number. The Democratic Republic of Congo contributed over 500,000 of the number.

Ahumuza, who is currently in Uganda completing his data collection before returning to Ghana to complete his studies, is married, and a father of four girls. While in Ghana he regularly holds online conversations with his family, to ensure his absence is not felt that much. He thanks his wife, Nyangoma Patience Ahumuza, who he says has been able to run the family in his absence. During his free time, Ahumuza likes reading for pleasure, listening to music and sport fishing. 

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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.

Also, follow us on X (formerly twitter, Instagram and Facebook

UCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi alongside Tom Deans, the Director of the University Writing Center at the University of Connecticut. As a visiting Fulbright scholar at UCU in 2021, Deans helped start UCU’s Writing Centre in the Department of Literature and Languages.

UCU Vice Chancellor’s USA visits to foster collaborations

Bishop Tucker School of Divinity and Theology, News, UCU Alumni, UCU School of Education


UCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi alongside Tom Deans, the Director of the University Writing Center at the University of Connecticut. As a visiting Fulbright scholar at UCU in 2021, Deans helped start UCU’s Writing Centre in the Department of Literature and Languages.
UCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi alongside Tom Deans, the Director of the University Writing Center at the University of Connecticut. As a visiting Fulbright scholar at UCU in 2021, Deans helped start UCU’s Writing Centre in the Department of Literature and Languages.

By Irene Best Nyapendi and Jimmy Siyasa
Uganda Christian University (UCU) Vice Chancellor Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi’s recent visit to the United States focused on partnerships, strengthening ties with prominent academic and other institutions, and exploring collaborative opportunities. During the same period of the trip (November 29 to December 9, 2023), Prof. Mushengyezi attended the African Studies Association Conference in San Francisco, Calif., among other high-level interactions. 

Bethel University
Prof. Mushengyezi visited Bethel University in St, Paul, Minnesota, where he met President Ross Allen, professor of nursing emerita Karen Drake and Dr. Dave Muhovic, who helped to start and elevate UCU’s nursing program. The alumni of the program are now top leaders in the healthcare sector across Uganda. 

UCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Aaron Mushegyenzi and Dr. Daniel Johnson, President of Wisconsin Lutheran College (WLC) in Milwaukee. The two discussed how UCU and WLC can work together on student and staff academic exchange and collaborative research.
UCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Aaron Mushegyenzi and Dr. Daniel Johnson, President of Wisconsin Lutheran College (WLC) in Milwaukee. The two discussed how UCU and WLC can work together on student and staff academic exchange and collaborative research.

Wisconsin Lutheran College
Prof. Mushengyezi had productive meetings with Dr. Daniel Johnson, President of Wisconsin Lutheran College (WLC) in Milwaukee. The discussions centered on fostering cooperation in student and staff academic exchanges, as well as collaborative research. WLC, renowned for its strength in biological sciences, biotechnology and nursing, expressed a keen interest in partnering with UCU. The Vice Chancellor extended an invitation to President Johnson to visit UCU in future.

African Studies Association Conference
From November 30 to December 2, the Vice Chancellor attended the African Studies Association (ASA) conference in San Francisco, California, where he presented a paper titled: Re-imagining the university’s pedagogical mission in the pandemic era. Prof. Mushengyezi showcased UCU’s digital innovations that have helped the university to successfully adapt to challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.

UCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi (centre) and his wife, Patience (right), with Bishop Andrew Williams (second-left) and his wife, Elena, when the Vice Chancellor visited the Anglican Diocese of New England in Boston, Massachusetts.
UCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi (centre) and his wife, Patience (right), with Bishop Andrew Williams (second-left) and his wife, Elena, when the Vice Chancellor visited the Anglican Diocese of New England in Boston, Massachusetts.

Anglican Diocese of New England
At the invitation of Rt. Rev. Andrew Williams, the Vice Chancellor visited the Anglican Diocese of New England (ADNE) in Boston, Massachusetts. The bishop committed to hosting theology scholars and graduate students in ADNE to foster cross-cultural ministry formation between UCU’s Bishop Tucker School of Divinity and Theology (BTSDT) and the Diocese. A short-term ministry exchange programme is planned for 2024, where the Dean of BTSDT and a theology graduate student will visit the Diocese.

University of Connecticut Reunion
The Vice Chancellor also visited his alma mater, the University of Connecticut (UConn), where he obtained his doctorate in 2007. The Associate Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS), Prof. Kate Kapshaw-Smith, and Prof. Tom Deans hosted Mushengyezi along with the Head of the English Department, Prof. Claire Costley King’oo. As a visiting Fulbright scholar at UCU in 2021, Deans helped to start UCU’s Writing Centre in the Department of Literature and Languages. The English Department and the Writing Centre at UConn are willing to send staff on short visits to support and mentor the Writing Centre and writing programmes at UCU. The Associate Dean and Department Head also encouraged UCU early-career staff to apply to UConn for graduate studies.

The UConn team congratulated their former student and now Vice Chancellor on his immense contribution to scholarship and to higher education leadership in Africa. The visits marked another milestone in UCU’s commitment to global academic collaboration and excellence. The institution is optimistic about the fruitful outcomes of the partnerships.

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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.

Also, follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

Josephine Adal, UCU Mbale College’s overall best student, shares a light moment with the Rt. Rev. Samuel George Bogere Egesa. She garnered a first-class degree in a Bachelor of Social Work and Social Administration with a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.54.

Mbale’s best aspires to expand help to needy

Sports, UCU School of Education, UCU School of Social Sciences


Josephine Adal, UCU Mbale College’s overall best student, shares a light moment with the Rt. Rev. Samuel George Bogere Egesa. She garnered a first-class degree in a Bachelor of Social Work and Social Administration with a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.54.
Josephine Adal, UCU Mbale College’s overall best student, shares a light moment with the Rt. Rev. Samuel George Bogere Egesa. She garnered a first-class degree in a Bachelor of Social Work and Social Administration with a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.54.

By Irene Best Nyapendi
Josephine Adal, the overall best student among 558 graduates at the Dec.1 Uganda Christian University (UCU) Mbale College ceremony, wants to improve the lives of others. 

The 31-year-old is on her way with a first-class degree in a Bachelor of Social Work and Social Administration with a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.54. Adal was given a hand that she wants to return as a certified social worker. 

After attaining a diploma in social work, Adal worked as an immigration assistant, giving not only her skill but some of her earnings to orphans, women and teenage girls, especially teen  mothers.

Josephine Adal, UCU Mbale College’s overall best student. She studied social work to acquire knowledge and skills to make a greater impact on the lives of others.
Josephine Adal, UCU Mbale College’s overall best student. She studied social work to acquire knowledge and skills to make a greater impact on the lives of others.

To expand her impact and while still working, Adal sought a degree to stand a better chance of joining big charity institutions such as the non-government organizations (NGO). To fund this next educational step, she took out loans, got small grants from local village saving groups and secured money from friends and workmates, including one coworker who blessed her with $532 for her accommodation and meals. 

She is grateful to God for the overall best student award and believes it will set her apart in the competitive world as a high achiever. 

“With this first-class degree, I have the confidence to compete on equal footing with any individual,” Adal said. She hopes to now find a seat in the NGO world or government ministries with a mission of helping the needy.

She finds joy in extending a helping hand to the most vulnerable – from providing moral support to the elderly and children living with HIV/AIDS to providing scholastic materials for the education of the unprivileged children in her community.

During the holiday, she embarked on a mission to provide essential items, such as soap, to those in need.

Best male student

David Mugawe (left), UCU’s Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration) and Dennis Namanda (second-left), UCU Mbale College best male student, with other officials during graduation. A total of 558 graduated on December 1, 2023.
David Mugawe (left), UCU’s Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration) and Dennis Namanda (second-left), UCU Mbale College best male student, with other officials during graduation. A total of 558 graduated on December 1, 2023.

In addition to the Mbale recognition of the top student, who was female, the top male student named is Dennis Namanda, who excelled in the Bachelor of Education program with a CGPA of 4.48. Namanda attributes his success to a semester-based study plan, active participation in class, taking advantage of available resources like the e-library and UCU’s holistic approach to education.

“Time management is essential for anyone who wants to succeed in school or in life,” he said.

Of 301 graduates who were females and 257 males, six students scored a first-class degree.

Administrative key messages

Dr. Erisa Kigenyi Mazaki, the Principal of UCU Mbale College, echoed Namanda’s attribution about holistic education as he highlighted the college’s achievements and accomplishments that go beyond academics. 

He shared the success of the university football club, where two players from the team, Kevin Mwambu and Emmanuel Mukisa, were called to join the national football team (Uganda Cranes). Mukisa got a nod to play with the team at the AFCON (Africa Cup of Nations) championship in 2022. Other stars that were nurtured by the college are Ritah Kimono and Brenda Namapii of the netball team who were drafted into the national netball team (She Cranes).

Muzaki urged the graduates to maintain the values of character, hard work and excellence instilled in them at UCU. Drawing inspiration from Colossians 3:23-24, he encouraged them to work diligently, remembering that their ultimate service is to the Lord.

UCU’s Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), David Mugawe, who represented the UCU Vice-Chancellor, emphasized the importance of graduates having a purpose in life. He urged them to set goals, serving as stewards of the knowledge and values entrusted to them.

“After your graduation, you should be purposeful of what you would like to do because a purposeless life is vulnerable to disruptions,” Mugawe said.

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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.

Also, follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

(Left to Right) Dr. Mary Kagoire (Dean of the School of Education), Dr. Vincent Kisenyi (Agriculture Director of Academic Affairs), Assoc. Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi (UCU Vice Chancellor), and Prof. Monica Chibita (Dean of the School of Journalism, Media and Communication) during the launch of the newly accredited programs at Uganda Christian University. The new doctoral programs are in Journalism, Development Studies and Business. The newly accredited programs are PhD in Journalism, Media, and Communication; Doctor of Philosophy in Development Studies; and PhD in Business Administration. The reaccredited doctoral programs include: Doctor of Philosophy in Theology, Doctor of Ministry and PhD in Literature.

UCU starts new PhDs, Masters programs

Bishop Tucker School of Divinity and Theology, UCU School of Education, UCU School of Journalism, Media and Communication


(Left to Right) Dr. Mary Kagoire (Dean of the School of Education), Dr. Vincent Kisenyi (Agriculture Director of Academic Affairs), Assoc. Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi (UCU Vice Chancellor), and Prof. Monica Chibita (Dean of the School of Journalism, Media and Communication) during the launch of the newly accredited programs at Uganda Christian University. The new doctoral programs are in Journalism, Development Studies and Business. The newly accredited programs are PhD in Journalism, Media, and Communication; Doctor of Philosophy in Development Studies; and PhD in Business Administration. The reaccredited doctoral programs include: Doctor of Philosophy in Theology, Doctor of Ministry and PhD in Literature.
(Left to Right) Dr. Mary Kagoire (Dean of the School of Education), Dr. Vincent Kisenyi (Acting Director of Academic Affairs), Assoc. Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi (UCU Vice Chancellor), and Prof. Monica Chibita (Dean of the School of Journalism, Media and Communication) during the launch of the newly accredited programs at Uganda Christian University. The new doctoral programs are in Journalism, Development Studies and Business.
The newly accredited programs are PhD in Journalism, Media, and Communication; Doctor of Philosophy in Development Studies; and PhD in Business Administration. The reaccredited doctoral programs include: Doctor of Philosophy in Theology, Doctor of Ministry and PhD in Literature.

By Irene Best Nyapendi
Uganda Christian University (UCU) has new innovative courses on its illustrious list of academic programs. The Vice Chancellor, Assoc. Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, recently declared the commencement of new programs that were accredited in August.

“We have good news to share,” Mushengyezi said. “We have received communication from the National Council of Higher Education (NCHE) about the approval of our new and reviewed programs.” 

NCHE, the body mandated to regulate and guide the establishment and management of Uganda’s higher education institutions, recently accredited a PhD in Journalism, Media, and Communication (JMC); a PhD in Development Studies; a PhD in Business Administration; a Master of Arts in African Studies; and a Master of Literature. 

Others re-accredited are: PhD in Literature, Doctor of Ministry, Doctor of Philosophy degree in Theology, Bachelor of Science in Economics and Statistics, Master of Social Work, Master of Library and Information Science and Bachelor of Laws. This is according to a letter from the NCHE, dated September 6, 2023, addressed to the UCU Vice Chancellor. 

UCU was also authorized to start a two-semester program, the Higher Education Certificate, which provides learners with the basic introductory knowledge, cognitive and conceptual tools, and practical techniques for further higher education studies. NCHE also reviewed other universities’ programs, including the Bachelor of Science in Economics and Statistics, the Master of Social Work, the Master of Library and Information Science, and the Bachelor of Laws.

Mushengyezi said the university is set to admit students in all the new programs. He encouraged students at UCU and beyond to consider applying for the programs.

UCU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi launching the PhD in Journalism, Media and Communication. The program will start off with an 11-strong faculty, comprising four professors, two associate professors and five lecturers drawn from UCU, University of KwaZulu Natal, University of Rwanda and NLA University College, Norway.
UCU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi launching the PhD in Journalism, Media and Communication. The program will start off with an 11-strong faculty, comprising four professors, two associate professors and five lecturers drawn from UCU, University of KwaZulu Natal, University of Rwanda and NLA University College, Norway.

“The interesting thing about our PhD and Master’s degrees is that you can complete your degree online in the comfort of your office or home,” the Vice Chancellor said. “We promise you will get quality education at the Centre of Excellence in the Heart of Africa.”

Vincent Kisenyi, the Ag. Director of Academic Affairs and previously Dean of the School of Business, expressed enthusiasm about the renewed PhD program in Business Administration scheduled to start in January. 

“The School of Business is very delighted to have the PhD in Business accredited,” Kisenyi said. “This is in line with the strategic direction that the university is taking to provide quality education to the highest level.”

Dr. Mary Kagoire, the Dean of the School of Education, is thrilled about the reaccredited PhD in Literature. She said the program targets change agents, researchers, and lecturers at higher institutions.

“Through our online studies, we can easily tap the rich collaboration of other professors,” she said. “They don’t have to be within UCU. They can teach from wherever they are, and the students too can study from anywhere.”

Kagoire said the PhD in literature will tap into the global space with possibilities of interconnection and collaboration in research in literary and cultural studies. UCU aims at promoting rigorous, focused research that leads to improved understanding and innovations to solve specific challenges in Uganda and abroad.

The JMC PhD, slated to commence by December, will start off with 10 candidates and cover four broad areas — media democracy and development in Africa; media, gender, identity and participation; media and crisis; and health and science communication. 

“This is the first PhD with coursework in Uganda, and this is important because we conducted a needs assessment and found out that there’s a big gap in terms of capacity for research as well as strong teaching skills at the university level,” Prof. Monica Chibita, the Dean of the School of Journalism, Media and Communication, said.

The program will start off with an 11-strong faculty, comprising four professors, two associate professors, and five lecturers drawn from UCU, the University of KwaZulu Natal, the University of Rwanda, and NLA University College, Norway. The faculty composition reflects strong collaboration between the partner universities and continued support for capacity development in higher education and research for development from the Norwegian Programme for Capacity Development in Higher Education and Research for Development (NORHED).

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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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Believe Niwagaba, the overall best student at the Uganda Christian University (UCU) Bishop Barham university college on November 17, 2023, happily displaying his accolade

Top student among 610 BBUC November 2023 graduates ‘believed’

Students, UCU Alumni, UCU School of Education


Believe Niwagaba, the overall best student at the Uganda Christian University (UCU) Bishop Barham university college on November 17, 2023, happily displaying his accolade
Believe Niwagaba, the overall best student at the Uganda Christian University (UCU) Bishop Barham university college on November 17, 2023, happily displaying his accolade

By Irene Best Nyapendi
Believe Niwagaba, the top graduate at Uganda Christian University (UCU) Bishop Barham University College (BBUC), initially faced the daunting prospect of being unable to pursue university education due to financial constraints. His journey began in 2020 amid the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. Niwagaba looked for a scholarship in vain.  

“I had lost all hope of joining the university,” he said. “I looked for scholarships, tried many seeking help and support from influential people, but nothing was positive in return.”

It was during this dark period that hope emerged, courtesy of his late cousin brother, Tukundane Hosea, a student leader at UCU Kabale Campus. Tukundane informed Niwagaba about how UCU offers a 50% tuition scholarship. Niwagaba applied and got the scholarship. In short, the student with “believe” as part of his name believed and acted. He  joined UCU in February 2021, trailing behind most of his peers who had commenced their university journey in October 2020.

Of the UGX 796,925 (about $210), the scholarship covered UGX320,425 (about $85) as he committed to pay the remaining UGX476,500 (about $125). 

Niwagaba’s family sold land and acquired loans to raise enough money to pay the other 50%. He also used some monies earned as Kanungu district youth chairman.

“I am grateful to the university for this aid; I wouldn’t have made it without it,” he said.

Niwagaba shares a photo moment with Assoc. Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi (left), Prof. Ezra Suruma (second-right), and Rev. Bishop, Gaddie Akanjuna (right)
Niwagaba shares a photo moment with Assoc. Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi (left), Prof. Ezra Suruma (second-right), and Rev. Bishop, Gaddie Akanjuna (right)

The scholarship not only opened doors for Niwagaba, but also created a conducive environment for his academic success.

With a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.78 out of 5.0, Niwagaba was the overall best student during the November 17, 2023, graduation in the south western district of Kabale. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts with Education (English and Literature). 

“This degree means a lot to me. It has been my desire to score a first-class degree, and I hope it will help me on my journey and dream of becoming a professor one day,” he said. 

He is optimistic that his stellar performance will now make it easier for him to win more scholarships and opportunities to further his education.

His secret to success was simple yet profound – pouring his energy, body, heart and soul into his studies. His approach involved being fully present in each moment, whether it was academic pursuits or his engagement in campus politics, where he once contested for guild presidency.

To aspiring students, he guided that they should set personal standards and goals.

“Compete with the world, don’t compete with your classmates,” he said.

He called on the students to aim for extraordinary efforts, saying in today’s competitive world, ordinary actions yield ordinary results.

Niwagaba managed to balance his role as Kanungu district chairman at the same time excelling in academics, attributing it to strong determination. “Weekends became a hectic yet necessary time to address the needs of the youth in Kanungu,” he said of the challenges.

Niwagaba said participating in student leadership elections molded him into a public speaker and debater, while the weekly community worships instilled values of humility and faith. 

“I am a complete person due to the molding of UCU,” he said. “The weekly community worship brought me closer to God, and I now understand that I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

These experiences, combined with the incorporation of the New Competency Based Curriculum, have prepared Niwagaba for his teaching career.

“We were amply trained in the new curriculum and are now highly demanded by schools. We are considered references to other teachers because of our enriched knowledge from the new curriculum,” Niwagaba said.

At the age of 22, Niwagaba, the second born among four siblings, is not just an overall best graduate, but also a chairperson and teacher at Kabale Brainstorm High School. 

Speaking at the ceremony of 610 graduates (198 female and 412 male), Vice-Chancellor Assoc. Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi urged the graduates not to be part of the country’s problems, but rather problem solvers.

“Uganda and the world need a new breed of young people like you. UCU has prepared you to be that kind of person who can cause the positive change that we all desire to see,” he said.

He also announced a comprehensive campus renewal initiative to further enhance the student experience and foster a vibrant campus environment. The initiative encompasses; landscaping all UCU, paving and remodeling walkways and roads as well as renewing campus infrastructure among others.

The BBUC chairperson Governing Council, Rev. Bishop Gaddie Akanjuna, reminded the graduates that a graduation ceremony “is not the peak of your academic journey, but rather a stepping stone to a vast world of opportunities ahead of you.” He charged the graduates to face the future with zeal, determination and resilience, ready to succeed.

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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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His Grace, the Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, gives East Busoga Bishop Rt. Rev. Paul Hannington Suubi a pastoral staff during his enthronement on November 19, 2023.

Anglican church creates new diocese, enthrones first bishop

Bishop Tucker School of Divinity and Theology, UCU School of Education


His Grace, the Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, gives East Busoga Bishop Rt. Rev. Paul Hannington Suubi a pastoral staff during his enthronement on November 19, 2023.
His Grace, the Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, gives East Busoga Bishop Rt. Rev. Paul Hannington Suubi a pastoral staff during his enthronement on November 19, 2023.

By Irene Best Nyapendi
The Church of Uganda is celebrating two milestones. The double commemoration is about East Busoga, Uganda’s newest diocese, which was inaugurated on November 19, 2023, and, the same event, the consecration of Rt. Rev. Paul Hannington Suubi and his enthronment as its first bishop. East Busoga became the country’s 39th diocese of the Anglican Church after approval by the provincial assembly in August 2022. 

His Grace, the Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda and Chancellor of Uganda Christian University (UCU), blessed the twin celebration at Stephen’s Cathedral in eastern Uganda’s Bugiri district. The event was marked under the theme: To proclaim the gospel in accordance with Christ’s commission to make disciples of all nations.

“I, Stephen, by divine permission, Archbishop of Church of Uganda, do now declare that East Busoga has been duly inaugurated as the 39th diocese in the province of the Church of Uganda with its headquarters at St. Stephen’s Bugiri, in the name of God the father, God the son and God the Holy Spirit,” Kaziimba declared.

Kaziimba consecrated Suubi and urged him to heed to reading the Bible, exhortation and doctrine.

“Think upon the things contained in this book,” he counseled. “Be diligent in them that the increase coming thereby may be manifest unto all people.”

The archbishop asked Suubi to take good care of the flock.

“Be to the flock of Christ a shepherd, not a wolf; feed them, and devour them not,” Kaziimba said. “Hold up the weak, heal the sick, bind up the broken and be so merciful, that you be not too remiss, minister discipline that you forget not mercy; that when the chief shepherd shall appear you may receive the never fading crown of glory.”

He dedicated the new cathedral and presented to Suubi the episcopal staff, which he said was of big significance in pastoral duties.

The new East Busoga Bishop, Rt. Rev. Paul Hannington Suubi takes his oath of service before the archbishop at Stephen’s Cathedral in Bugiri district.
The new East Busoga Bishop, Rt. Rev. Paul Hannington Suubi takes his oath of service before the archbishop at Stephen’s Cathedral in Bugiri district.

During the service, Suubi took an oath of true and canonical obedience to the archbishop and declared his commitment to uphold the constitution of the Church of Uganda. He affirmed his readiness to resign if requested by a two-thirds majority of diocesan bishops. He pledged utmost dedication to the responsibilities entrusted to him.

“I, Paul Hannington Suubi, swear that I will pay true and canonical obedience to the archbishop of the church of the province of Uganda, in all things lawful and honest. So, help me God,” Suubi vowed.

He promised to respect, maintain and defend the rights of the church and diocese, serving with truth, justice and charity. He committed to observing the diocesan provisions and summoning the Synod at regular intervals

Assoc. Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, the Vice-Chancellor of UCU and former classmate of Suubi, congratulated him on his elevation to the bishopric. Reflecting on their shared school days, Mushengyezi remarked that Suubi’s leadership qualities were evident even then during their early school days, making his appointment no surprise.

 “As someone who went to school with you, I am particularly very thrilled to see God elevate you to such a high calling to shepherd his people,” Mushengyezi said.

UCU pledged continued commitment in training clergy of the diocese on scholarship. 

On behalf of UCU, Mushengyezi gifted Suubi with UGX 1,000,000 (about $265) and an iPad Pro for his work.

Suubi said as bishop, his focus areas will be: evangelism and discipleship; family, youth and children’s ministry; education (schools and colleges); environment management; and development, health and human resource.

“We shall develop a diocesan staff development policy to guide us in evolving a God-fearing, competent, well-motivated and professional human resource,” Suubi said. 

He also noted that as a diocese, they will carefully select young educated youth for theological training to become clergy in order to address the demand. 

The bishop said he was concerned about the Church of Uganda educational institutions whose standards are wanting due to high teacher-pupil ratios, lack of furniture and space.

As a way of addressing staffing and scholastic needs at the church schools in eastern Uganda, Suubi pledged to work with the authorities to “strengthen the management and administration of our schools and colleges, sensitize parents and guardians about their roles and responsibilities.”

Suubi holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Divinity from Makerere University and a Diploma in Education. He also attained certificates in leadership and public administration and management from Makerere University and Haggai Institute, Singapore.

He has been married to Margret Stella for close to 29 years. Together, they have three children.

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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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Mukhooli promised to hinge his leadership on bridging the communication gap between the students and the administrators.

UCU Mbale campus gets new guild president

News, Students, UCU Alumni, UCU School of Education, UCU School of Social Sciences


Mukhooli promised to hinge his leadership on bridging the communication gap between the students and the administrators.
Mukhooli promised to hinge his leadership on bridging the communication gap between the students and the administrators.

By Pauline Luba
Picture this: You are a top contender for a political office. On voting day, after casting your ballot, what do you do with the rest of the hours to ease the tension as you wait to know the results? Harry Mukhooli recently found himself in such a situation. Mukhooli, the new Guild President of Uganda Christian University (UCU) Mbale campus in eastern Uganda, said he isolated himself from people the entire day as he waited for the results.

Luckily for him, he emerged the victor, with 46% of the people who cast their votes preferring him as their new leader. At first, it was a battle against five candidates. However, along the way during the campaigns, two of those dropped out, leaving Mukhooli against three others — two male, one female — whom he beat to clinch the topmost office in the student leadership hierarchy.

So, how did the 22-year-old student of Bachelor of Education (English and Literature in English) use to draw people to him? 

Mukhooli started campaigning in May. One issue that Mukhooli promised to hinge his term of office on was improving relations at the institution. 

“I wanted to bridge the gap between the students and the university administration,” Mukhooli said, adding that he hopes to use his position as Guild President to “give others a platform” to voice their challenges at the university. 

Among the needs that students have voiced include the desire for renovation of some of the buildings at the campus, as well as challenges in paying tuition on time. These, among others, are issues that Mukhooli hopes to bring to the discussion table, with the aim of making the stay of the students at the institution as comfortable as it can be. 

On voting day in October 2023, Mukhooli spent considerable money transporting students to cast their ballots. He said many students struggle to fend for themselves, and, as such, they see it as a waste of resources to spend money on transport to go to the university to cast their votes and return home. It is this category of people that Mukhooli said he sought to reach out to, so they can exercise their democratic right to cast a ballot. Could this act have endeared the voters to him? Maybe.

Mukhooli takes office from 30-year-old Daniel Kunya, a student of Bachelor of Social Work and Social Administration who has held the office since November last year.

When the need for the funds for the campaign arrived, Mukhooli turned to proceeds from his poultry business. But that was not enough. Contributions came from his father — Namasake Peter Wandeka — whom Mukhooli considers one of his greatest inspirations, including during this run for office. His other cheerleaders were his mother, Namuwenge Sarah; step-mother Bisikwa Sarah; and Munialo Tracy Wandeeka, his younger sister. 

Growing up, Mukhooli wished to become a journalist and a sportsman. While not strongly interested in football, but is a talented soccer player who has been on all his school teams. In fact, while in primary school at St. Edwards Junior Academy in Manafwa district in eastern Uganda, Mukhooli was the captain of the school football team. He also is the current captain of the UCU Mbale campus football team. He says he is a beneficiary of a sports bursary at UCU. 

When not attending to the academic needs or his political office, you will find Mukhooli either in his passion fruit farm tending to the plants or looking after the chickens that he rears in his poultry farm. 

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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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Caleb Ndishakiye, a UCU School of Education alum, poses with children during a school outreach.

Ndishakiye on mission to combat Ugandan illiteracy

News, Students, UCU Alumni, UCU School of Education, UCU School of Law


Caleb Ndishakiye, a UCU School of Education alum, poses with children during a school outreach.
Caleb Ndishakiye, a UCU School of Education alum, poses with children during a school outreach.

By Kefa Ssenoga
When you sit down for a conversation with Caleb Ndishakiye, he does not need to mention his love for literature. His diction validates that. And if you sit with him for a longer time, you also will discover that he has a deep passion for communication, the promotion of literacy and sharing knowledge. 

Ndishakiye has been fortunate to earn a living from his passion. His first attempt at teaching was in 2011 during his long holidays after writing his end of Senior Six national exams. An unlicensed teacher, he nevertheless taught literature at Seseme Girls Secondary School and Mutorele Boys Secondary School. Both schools are in Ndishakiye’s native area of Kisoro, southwestern Uganda.

Despite the passion of sharing knowledge, Ndishakiye did not envisage a career in teaching. Early in his secondary education, he developed a love for law, which he applied to study  at Uganda Christian University (UCU).

“I wanted to pursue a course in law when I joined UCU, but interestingly, I was admitted for education,” he said. “I decided to pursue it and still be excellent at it!”

Ndishakiye and Patricia on their Dec. 7, 2019, wedding day at Thornycroft Chapel Kyaggwe, UCU.
Ndishakiye and Patricia on their Dec. 7, 2019, wedding day at Thornycroft Chapel Kyaggwe, UCU.

He has never regretted the idea of pursuing a bachelor’s degree in education. He acknowledges that this move has had a significant impact on who he is now. Ndishakiye began his studies at UCU in 2012 and graduated in 2015. While at UCU, He was in the Honors College.

Barely a year after graduation, Ndishakiye was hired as a teaching assistant in the UCU foundations department. He was primarily teaching writing and study skills, and occasionally teaching in the literature department, particularly course units like the Bible as literature and other English language short courses.

His teaching journey at UCU began in 2016 after returning from a one-year mission and a leadership development program at Nairobi Chapel, Kenya, courtesy of the UCU chaplaincy and the community as a whole. 

“UCU, particularly the Thornycroft Chapel, had a partnership with Nairobi Chapel in Kenya, where two missionaries were sent for a program. I was one of the two,” Ndishakiye says.

He was attached to the Teens’ church, which also is famously known as Club Expressions, an experience he says exposed them to an international perspective to life. 

In 2018, after two years of teaching at UCU, Ndishakiye got a one-year opportunity to teach English language and Literature in English at Seroma Christian High School in Mukono. He needed more time to attend to his newly found passion for literacy programming and children’s literature through Glow-Lit Uganda, an organization he founded earlier that year.  With UCU, he continued to serve until 2020 when Uganda closed schools due to the Covid-19 pandemic. 

In August 2020, the Reading Association of Uganda invited Ndishakiye to work on a project that was opening up in Uganda. 

“I was invited as the Programs Specialist to support the national technical portfolio of the association, and support the development of storybooks in Luganda and Runyankore-Rukiga,” he said.

He noted that in the role, his other tasks were “establishing libraries in Government primary schools and supporting their management and use, training of teachers and developing materials to support the lower primary school teaching of reading Luganda and Runyankore-Rukiga.” 

The Room to Read Uganda project at the Reading Association of Uganda is sponsored by Room to Read, an organization that, according to their website, envisions a world in which “all children can pursue a quality education that prepares them to lead fulfilled lives and make positive change — in their families, communities and the world.” 

Working closely with the Ministry of Education and Sports, the project has developed 154 storybook titles, two learner books, and two teachers’ guides in Luganda and Runyankore-Rukiga. It also involves training with teachers, government, publishers, and book value-chain players to build writing, illustration, design, and editing capacity, especially for children’s literature.

Ndishakiye argues that the Ugandan book market has not given sufficient focus to children’s literature. He is now an advocate for quality children’s literature production, distribution and use. 

Ndishakiye is the third born of eight children of Richard and Lydia Ndishakiye. He completed his primary education at Muganza Primary School in Kisoro district. He studied O’level at Chahi Seed Senior Secondary School and A’level at Trinity College Kabale. Compassion International, an international charity organization, paid part of his school fees in primary and secondary school. At the university, he says, the charity paid all the school fees. 

He is married to Patricia and the couple has a son, Jordan, age two. 

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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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The Rev. Dr. Abel Wankuma Kibbedi was part of the pioneer class of the PhD in literature course at UCU.

Rev. Dr. Kibbedi gets third degree in literature at UCU

Bishop Tucker School of Divinity and Theology, News, Students, UCU Alumni, UCU School of Education


The Rev. Dr. Abel Wankuma Kibbedi was part of the pioneer class of the PhD in literature course at UCU.
The Rev. Dr. Abel Wankuma Kibbedi was part of the pioneer class of the PhD in literature course at UCU.

By Kefa Senoga
In 2005, when Uganda Christian University wanted to start a master’s program in literature, the institution sent some of its academics to convince alums they thought would take advantage of the course.

Abel Wankuma Kibbedi, who had graduated the previous year with a First Class degree in Bachelor of Education with English and Literature, was one of the alums approached. At the time, Kibbedi was residing with other undergraduate students in one of the hostels in Kauga, a suburb near UCU’s main campus.

When Prof. Timothy Wangusa, who was among the people overseeing the start of the master’s course at UCU, visited Kibbedi, he advised the latter to leave the hostel where he was residing. At the time, Kibbedi had just been offered a position as a teaching assistant at UCU. Wangusa rhetorically asked Kibbedi if he intended to continue sharing the same space with the students he was teaching.

To follow up on his advice, Wangusa offered Kibbedi, who had taken up the opportunity to enroll for the master’s course, the guest wing at the professor’s residence. Two years later, Kibbedi, who was part of the pioneer class of master’s in literature, was a proud recipient of the postgraduate degree, an achievement made possible courtesy of a scholarship through the staff development committee at UCU.

Again, in 2017, Kibbedi — and two other colleagues — was part of the pioneer class of the PhD in literature course at UCU. And at the most recent UCU graduation held at the Main Campus in Mukono on October 13, 2023, Kibbedi was among the graduates who earned a PhD. Kibbedi’s other two pioneer doctoral colleagues in literature were not present at the October 13 graduation. Mary Naula had already graduated in 2021, while the third PhD student lost her life two years into the course.

Between Kibbedi’s master’s degree in literature and the PhD, he earned another degree — Masters of Divinity and Theology — from the Pennsylvania-based Westminster Theological Seminary.  

“While attending a conference in the United States in 2007, Church of Uganda Archbishop at the time, Henry Luke Orombi, asked the president of Westminster Theological Seminary if they would offer a scholarship to a Ugandan student,” Kibbedi said during an interview he granted Uganda Partners after his October 13 graduation. 

The answer to Orombi’s question was in the affirmative. However, it was not a direct pass for Kibbedi, whom Orombi had in mind as he asked the question. There had to be interviews for the scholarship, which, fortunately, Kibbedi won. 

According to Kibbedi, upon his return to Uganda, with a second master’s degree in the bag, the vice chancellor at the time, the Rev. Dr. John Senyonyi, singled him out among the younger staff for departmental leadership as part of professional development. This is how he assumed the role of heading the Honors College, a position he held from 2012 to 2021.

To make his new master’s degree count, Kibbedi was taken in by the Bishop Tucker School of Divinity and Theology to teach Hebrew and Greek, primarily because the program he had pursued in the US at Westminster had an aspect of the ancient languages. Despite this, Kibbedi notes that he has mainly been involved in teaching literature at UCU.

He is grateful to the UCU administration, without whose support, he says, he would have struggled to achieve anything. For instance, Kibbedi cites the example of UCU first Vice Chancellor Prof. Stephen Noll, in whose tenure the former pursued further studies in Pennsylvania. He said Prof. Noll decided that Kibbedi be left on half pay throughout the duration of his four-year course, as opposed to no pay, because the lecturer “had family members and dependants to take care of.” Kibbedi said the PhD now has buttressed his desire to continue sharing knowledge as an academic.

The achievement of the PhD did not come on a silver platter, though. “My wife had to bear my long hours of reading and absence; she has had to step in for many activities with the children,” the Rev. Kibbedi says.

He is married to Lydia Wankuma Kibbedi who works as an administrator of the Uganda Studies Program at UCU. They have a daughter, Atungonza Wankuma, age 15, and a son, Anunula Wankuma, age 14. Atugonza is in Senior Three at Wanyange Girls School while Anunula is also in the same class, at Busoga College Mwiri, his father’s alma mater. Both schools are found in eastern Uganda.

Kibbedi completed his primary education at Namalemba Primary School in eastern Uganda, before joining Busoga College Mwiri. From Mwiri, he pursued a diploma in education at the National Teachers College Kaliro, before eventually joining UCU.

Kibbedi is number six of a family of 12 children. His father, the Rev. JFJ. Kibbedi Nswemu, a politician and educator, passed away in 1999. He credits his interest in literature to his father. Kibbedi’s mother, Robina Christina Kibbedi, now retired, had a career as a social worker.

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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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Dr. Gladys Ayot Oyat celebrates with her husband, Dr. Michael Oyat, after attaining her doctorate during graduation at Uganda Christian University, Mukono campus, on Oct. 13, 2023.

Dr. Ayot researches on fighting domestic violence to empower women

News, UCU School of Education


Dr. Gladys Ayot Oyat celebrates with her husband, Dr. Michael Oyat, after attaining her doctorate during graduation at Uganda Christian University, Mukono campus, on Oct. 13, 2023.
Dr. Gladys Ayot Oyat celebrates with her husband, Dr. Michael Oyat, after attaining her doctorate during graduation at Uganda Christian University, Mukono campus, on Oct. 13, 2023.

By Irene Best Nyapendi
Dr. Gladys Ayot Oyat’s inspiration to pursue a PhD in Education Administration and Management at Uganda Christian University (UCU) is rooted in her passion for addressing real-world challenges. Her commitment to women’s issues served as a driving force in choosing a research topic focused on the domestic violence impact on female teachers in Uganda.

Ayot’s research explores how domestic violence affects the teaching and administrative roles of female teachers working in secondary schools in Kitgum, northern Uganda. 

Dr. Gladys Ayot Oyat, a former member of the governing council of Uganda Christian University, graduated with a PhD in Education Administration and Management on October 13.
Dr. Gladys Ayot Oyat, a former member of the governing council of Uganda Christian University, graduated with a PhD in Education Administration and Management on October 13.

Her study found that domestic violence adversely affects teaching roles, leading to poor service delivery, absenteeism, missed lessons, poor preparation, low self-esteem and mental health issues. This likewise negatively impacts women in administrative roles, resulting in reduced work, interpersonal relationships, learning outputs and mentorship. Female teachers employ various coping mechanisms, both informal and formal, but some strategies prove counterproductive. Support for victims is insufficient, hindering their ability to manage these challenges effectively.

Ayot found that the patriarchal nature of Ugandan society determines relationships between men and women irrespective of educational status.

 “A lot needs to be done to address this challenge,” she said. “It undermines the laws we have in Uganda entrenched in our Constitution. My disappointment is that even women who are enlightened and educated, conceal what they go through in the name of protecting their marriage, adhering to culture and wanting to remain as role models to the students they teach when they are exposed to domestic violence. Worse still, taking the pain in silence and blaming themselves for the dysfunctional families.”

One moving story she encountered in her research involved a husband forcing his wife to have an abortion. 

 “This caused post-traumatic symptoms and depression,” Ayot said. “She would (imagine) the crying baby sitting on her lap and crying for help while she was in class teaching.”

With the dissemination of her findings, Ayot aims to encourage female teachers to be open to talking about the problems they go through and seeks for school administrators to support and create favorable conditions for women suffering from domestic violence.

Ayot, who was a member of the governing council of UCU, did her PhD on a modular course, which allowed her to study during the holidays.

She lauded UCU’s academic environment for its unique and supportive characteristics. The university’s modular approach, small class sizes, and strong faculty-student relationships fostered an atmosphere of shared learning and collaboration.

“I thank God that I chose UCU. My supervisor was very supportive; for example, during the Covid-19 pandemic time, he always called to follow up and give me support,” she said. “At the time when public places such as universities were closed as a way of curbing the spread of disease, I utilized the online university library.”

Ayot acknowledged the hectic and difficult journey to a PhD — long hours, rejection of proposals, and balancing social and work responsibilities. 

“I was a wife and head teacher of Kitgum YY Okot Memorial College (2002-2022),” she said. “I had social responsibilities that I couldn’t ignore. At some point, I wanted to give up; for example, when I was working on chapter three of my research and my supervisor kept on asking me to redo it.”

However, her unwavering determination and support from her family, particularly her husband, who purchased grammar editing software for her, became pillars of strength.

Ayot said that being 61 years old also motivated her, knowing that she didn’t have as much time as the younger students.

 “I told myself that I am not the type who should spend 10 years doing research. I wanted to do it and finish,” she said.

She is married to Dr. Michael Oyat with whom they have four children. She has served in the church as chairperson mothers union and is currently a lay Canon at Kitgum diocese. She studied a Bachelor and Masters in Education at Makerere University. She has served as Vice President, Mothers Union for the Province of Church of Uganda. 

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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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Some of the 25 pioneer members of the First Undergraduate Experience in Leadership (F.U.E.L.) Program

UCU aspiring leaders get help from F.U.E.L.

Faculty of Engineering, Design & Technology, Students, UCU School of Business, UCU School of Education


Some of the 25 pioneer members of the First Undergraduate Experience in Leadership (F.U.E.L.) Program
Some of the 25 pioneer members of the First Undergraduate Experience in Leadership (F.U.E.L.) Program

By Irene Best Nyapendi
The Uganda Christian University (UCU) guild government has started a leadership program, seeking to train students in management skills. The program, dubbed “First Undergraduate Experience in Leadership (F.U.E.L.) Program,” has been implemented at the University of Notre Dame (Indiana), Fordham University (New York) and Ohio State University, among other higher education institutions. .

“This program has given me confidence in the future of UCU,” said Timothy Ddumba, Mukono Campus Guild President. He believes F.U.E.L. will birth top-notch leaders while closing the gap of mentorship from one guild government to another. 

“It is possible [for other guild governments to adopt the program] because the students trained might be part of the next leadership,” he said of the eight Saturday sessions with 25 student participants in June and July 2023. “The impact it creates could inspire the need to sustain it.”

UCU Guild president Timothy Ddumba addressing students during one of the F.U.E.L. sessions
UCU Guild president Timothy Ddumba addressing students during one of the F.U.E.L. sessions

The free mentorship and training program is meant for students who are interested in student leadership, especially those who are already leaders in the guild government. 

Melissa Kamikazi Nsaba, the guild vice president, and Christy Asiimwe, the minister for presidency, are program leaders.

Asiimwe, a student in the School of Education,  said the vision of the program is to be a foundation of transformational leaders who champion and spread the core values of UCU.

“One of the reasons why we started this program is to nurture transformational leaders who are ready to transform the university and the world in a Christian way,” she said.

Unlike F.U.E.L. implemented at secular universities, the UCU program looks at nurturing and equipping students with leadership skills grounded in Christian values.  It is hoped that the classes will ignite leadership potential and empowerment among the students.

“I believe this program is good for the students because it helps them improve their managerial skills and abilities as future leaders, achieve better project leadership and improve risk management,” Asiimwe said.

She explained that by equipping and training those who wish to lead, those who vote them into power or are under their command are less likely to suffer the consequences of unsatisfactory and inadequate leadership. 

Emmanuel Golyo, one of the beneficiaries of the program and a student of a Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Technology, said he was taught what it takes to be a good leader. “I learned to understand and embrace the dynamics of the university and discovered how I can best serve to my fullest potential,” he said. He said the program helped him clarify his leadership and vision of self holistically.

During the course of the training, different speakers were invited to coach and mentor the trainees, speaking from real-life experiences.

Golyo said the program gave him a platform to understand the importance of team building and group motivation. “During each session we had a number of physical and interactive activities that nurtured in me the spirit of working with others on a project,” he said.

Mary Mangadalene Namwanje, a second-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration, explained that the sessions enlightened her on how to be a problem solver as a leader. She learned the characteristics of a good team and how to build it.

Namwanje is now knowledgeable about governing authorities, hierarchy and bureaucracy.

“Through the sessions I attended, I learned how to deal with different authorities, conflict resolution and decision making,” she said.

The students trained in effective communication, branding and documentation as well as public speaking. 

“While attending one of the sessions, we heard testimonies from former guild officials. One of the things they shared was how to balance life, responsibilities, relationships and work,” Namwanje said. 

The students also were taken through lessons on discovering themselves in leadership.

The F.U.E.L. Program is one of the pledges the guild president wrote in his manifesto on creating an environment to nurture future leaders. The seminars were sponsored by the guild budget.

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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.

Also, follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

Some of the students who attended the inaugural May “Talk to Mama Pesh” mentorship forum pose for a photo with their mentors, including Mama Pesh.

Vice Chancellor’s wife mentors students toward meaningful lives

Students, UCU School of Business, UCU School of Education


Some of the students who attended the inaugural May “Talk to Mama Pesh” mentorship forum pose for a photo with their mentors, including Mama Pesh.
Some of the students who attended the inaugural May “Talk to Mama Pesh” mentorship forum pose for a photo with their mentors, including Mama Pesh.

By Irene Best Nyapendi
Should I get into a serious relationship now? Is it the right time to get married? How do I know if I have the right partner? How do I know if I am in a bad relationship? What about sex? How do I achieve academic excellence with all these pressures? How do I grow my career?

Patience Rubabinda Mushengyezi, fondly known as “Mama Pesh” (short for Mother Patience), has been guiding Uganda Christian University (UCU) on these topics and more during monthly forums since May 2023. The monthly “Talk to Mama Pesh,” sessions are designed to be open, honest and informal.  

Patience Mushengyezi addressing students during the first “Talk to Mama Pesh” forum. She was with fellow mentors Faith Musinguzi (left) and Jolly Kavuma.
Patience Mushengyezi addressing students during the first “Talk to Mama Pesh” forum. She was with fellow mentors Faith Musinguzi (left) and Jolly Kavuma.

Mama Pesh, wife of Vice Chancellor Assoc. Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi for 26 years,  has been working with university students for over 20 years. She has nurtured over 12 non-biological children from childhood to graduation. She is a premarital counselor for young couples, mentor for young adults and leader at church. She is a mother of four. She is a Deputy Registrar at Makerere University,

“I developed a passion to talk to university students about values and morals to help open their eyes on things that can destroy their lives,” she said. “These are issues such as addictions, which lead to mental challenges and failure to complete their studies.” 

Mama Pesh said that she was further inspired by the Bible, in the book of Daniel 1:8, “But Daniel resolved not to defile himself…”. Mama Pesh acknowledged that vices of drug or substance abuse, sexual immorality, wrong relationships and unwanted pregnancies are not limited to secular universities.

 “I love the UCU motto of ‘Centre of Excellence in the Heart of Africa’ because my desire is to have academic excellence with values,” she said. “I am passionate about all students, both male and female. When we talk to them, they grow into responsible citizens, wives, mothers, husbands, fathers and have strong Christian families in the future.”.

Students discuss among themselves before the question-and-answer session with mentors at a “Talk to Mama Pesh” session.
Students discuss among themselves before the question-and-answer session with mentors at a “Talk to Mama Pesh” session.

One of the goals of the forum is to provide young people a platform to be mentored into leaders of today and tomorrow. The forum is meant to be “a secure space where young people can discuss freely with mentors about issues that affect their academic, social and spiritual lives.”

Mama Pesh emphasized that the end goal is to see that students achieve academic excellence with values. She also provides a safe space for the students that would like to share with her privately away from the presence of their colleagues.

Mama Pesh does the mentorship in partnership with the office of the Vice-Chancellor, Directorate of Students’ Affairs, the Chaplaincy, Counseling Unit and the Guild. In addition, she invites experienced counselors and mentors for the forum. The value of peer mentors is learning from someone who has more recently been where they are. 

The forum has become a beacon of inspiration in the lives of UCU students.

Jackson Leoru, a second-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Arts with Education, found the forum beneficial because it helps students prepare to be adults. “Through the forum, I got guidance to make healthy choices that create a positive impact in my life in school and in relationships,” he said.

He said he will pass along to others such learning as relationships need patience and prayer. “I learnt that sometimes you may see someone and think he or she is the one meant for you, yet they are actually not the ones, so we need to pray about it and also be patient.”

Natasha Alinda poses for a photo with Mama Pesh after one of the sessions at UCU main campus in Mukono.
Natasha Alinda poses for a photo with Mama Pesh after one of the sessions at UCU main campus in Mukono.

Natasha Alinda, a third-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Finance, said the program is a good foundation upon which a student can build themselves “in order to be first and foremost a very good child to their parents, a very good student in school, and a good citizen in their nation.”

Through the forum, Alinda (a residential assistant at the female’s main university hall) has discovered the value of intentionality and self-worth. “I learned to value myself and carefully choose the people I associate with as well as the friends I make,” she said.

She adds that as a student, the talks have taught her to schedule and maneuver around student leadership, friendships and education.

“I am so grateful to Mama Pesh for sparing time amidst her busy schedule to talk to us and hold our hands through this journey of life at no cost because so many people are charged to get such guidance,” she said.

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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.

Also, follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.