Category Archives: Faculty of Engineering, Design & Technology

UCU Code Buddy mentors and mentees share a joyful moment at the official launch of the program

UCU launches computing and technology peer mentorship

Faculty of Engineering, Design & Technology, News, Students, , , ,


UCU Code Buddy mentors and mentees share a joyful moment at the official launch of the program
UCU Code Buddy mentors and mentees share a joyful moment at the official launch of the program

By Irene Best Nyapendi
Whenever Peace Mercy Mirembe was assigned a task, she wished she had a machine to simplify most of the work. This desire for efficiency drove her to dream of inventing machines that could ease the workload. And it could possibly be the reason she opted for a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Uganda Christian University (UCU).

Her fascination with technology began during childhood, upon hearing stories of inventors who created life-changing devices.

Now in her first year studying in the Faculty of Engineering, Design and Technology at UCU, Mirembe believes coding holds endless possibilities.

UCU Code Buddy members engage in a tug-of-war during the program’s launch
UCU Code Buddy members engage in a tug-of-war during the program’s launch

“I can create whatever I need, it’s just a matter of time,” said the 20-year-old who aspires to be an inventor and software engineer.

A week into the course, reality dawned on Mirembe that the journey would not be all rosy. When she was introduced to Discrete Mathematics, a course unit offered in the first year, she found the subject difficult to comprehend.  She wanted to give up on the course.

Opportunely, at the Department of Computing and Technology at UCU, through a program named “Code Buddy,” every new student is assigned a mentor to walk the journey with them. That is how Mirembe met Daniel Wavamuno as her mentor. Fortunately, Wavamuno, a second-year Computer Science student, scored an A in Discrete Mathematics during his first year, which gave Mirembe reason to believe that it was possible to excel in the discipline.

While executing his mentor role, Wavamuno helped simplify concepts for Mirembe. He also provided her with resources and tutorials.

“I could have failed Mathematics if I had not met Wavamuno as my mentor,” Mirembe said. In addition to teaching her, he also guided Mirembe on which areas to pay more attention.

Tirzah Atwine receives a mentorship certificate from Assoc. Prof. Angella Napakol, the Director of Academic Affairs, and the chief guest at the program launch.
Tirzah Atwine receives a mentorship certificate from Assoc. Prof. Angella Napakol, the Director of Academic Affairs, and the chief guest at the program launch.

UCU’s Department of Computing and Technology launched its Code Buddy Mentorship Program on September 20, 2024, at the main campus. During the launch, attended by the Director of Academic Affairs, Assoc. Prof. Angela Napakol and the Director of Human Resources, Ms Florence Nakiyingi, students played fun games with their mentors, creating meaningful relationships and networking opportunities.

Dr. Innocent Ndibatya, the Head of the Computing and Technology Department, said: “We have found that students typically excel in their second and third years, but some are let down by poor grades acquired during the first year.”

The mentorship program, Ndibatya noted, will ensure a strong foundation from the start and quicken the transition from high school to campus life.

The Code Buddy mentors are selected based on their character and academic performance. 

Tirzah Atwine, a third-year student pursuing Bachelor of Computational Science at UCU, knows firsthand the challenges of navigating university life alone as a new student. To prevent others from facing similar struggles, she dedicated herself to mentor six students through the code buddy program.

“I don’t want new students to make the mistakes I did,” Atwine explains, noting that she has been able to learn more, by teaching others. “I’ve discovered that when I explain concepts to my mentees, I find it hard to forget the same concepts.”

Nathaniel Mugenyi, a first-year student pursuing Bachelor of Computer Science, testifies to the impact of the mentorship program. He noted that having someone to walk the journey with smoothened his transition into campus life.

Paired with Tobit (Tobby) Bushenyula Kabuya, a third-year student, Mugenyi found not only a mentor, but also a friend. 

Kabuya helped Mugenyi simplify difficult concepts, taught him effective time management and helped him avoid pitfalls like missing classes.

“I wasn’t planning to miss class, but when Tobby told me not to, I knew it was something I shouldn’t think of,” Mugenyi said. 

Theophile Shebakanga Bushenyula receives a mentorship certificate from Assoc. Prof. Angella Napakol.
Theophile Shebakanga Bushenyula receives a mentorship certificate from Assoc. Prof. Angella Napakol.

Mugenyi initially planned to keep a low profile on campus, focusing solely on classes and his room. However, the mentorship program changed that.

“If not for the program, I would have engaged less,” Mugenyi said. “I’m glad my campus life didn’t turn out as I had envisioned. Without Code Buddy, I would have missed out on valuable resources and opportunities.”

As a mentor, Theophile Shebakanga Bushenyula, a third-year student pursuing Bachelor of Information Technology at UCU, has developed strong leadership and communication skills. 

“My goal is to equip new students, get them academically on track, and make them independent,” he said. “It is rewarding to see mentees older than me become self-sufficient.”

Bushenyula’s passion for mentorship stems from his desire to share knowledge and become a teacher. “I enjoy guiding my mentees and seeing them succeed independently,” he 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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Ahabwe Amon doing civil engineering practical work

Ahabwe Amon, the comedian engineering student

Faculty of Engineering, Design & Technology, News, Students, , , ,


Ahabwe Amon doing civil engineering practical work
Ahabwe Amon doing civil engineering practical work

By Pauline Luba
Whenever the elder brother of Ahabwe Amon went to school, he would leave Amon lonely at home. As a result, Amon resorted to the Internet to occupy his time. That solitude led him to watching multiple comedy skits online.

What started as a search for entertainment online eventually turned into a passion. Today, Amon is well known in Uganda comedy circles. Balancing the demands of an engineering course and a flourishing career as a comedian has made Amon’s journey unique,  remarkable and inspiring.

Amon (left) and Abbey, a dynamic duo in the Uganda content creation industry
Amon (left) and Abbey, a dynamic duo in the Uganda content creation industry

The 22-year-old is a final-year student pursuing the Bachelor of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering course at Uganda Christian University. Amon first showcased his talent in comedy during his O’level studies at St. Mary’s College Kisubi, one of the elite secondary schools in Uganda. The school had organized a social event, where Amon participated in a category named Comedy King. That experience propelled him to believe that he could pursue this passion, alongside his academic career. 

Amon took advantage of the Covid-19 lockdown during which he collaborated with a fellow creative, Abbey Tumusiime. The two designed skits that they shared with their audience online. 

By the time the lockdown ended, Amon was a recognizable face on social media in Uganda. His new TikTok account quickly gained more followers, reaching 5,000. Today, he has 118,000 followers on TikTok  and 88,000 on Instagram and close to 800 YouTube subscribers under “Sir. Amon.”

“I never thought my content would grow this fast,” Amon admits. His videos now reach a global audience, with many viewers in the USA and the UK. His success isn’t just limited to social media; Amon also now hosts a comedy show on a Ugandan television station, Galaxy TV. 

Managing the rapid growth of his content creation career while balancing the rigors of his engineering course has not been without challenges. 

“Balancing schedules between studies and creating content was hard,” Amon noted. “Sometimes, it would be time to shoot the skit, but there would be no ready script.” 

Over time, he has learned to respect deadlines and time management, skills that have also helped him academically. While he has comedy fans, Amon has been a recipient of negative criticism and online trolls. But he says the only solution is to develop a thick skin because you cannot be the darling of everyone. 

He believes that creativity depends on public opinion, so resilience in the face of criticism is crucial.

Amon hosts a show on Galaxy TV
Amon hosts a show on Galaxy TV

“Do what makes you happy,” he urges, adding that the impact he has on people, especially those who watch his content during difficult times, is what makes it all worthwhile.

One of the turning points in Amon’s journey in content creation was signing a Memorandum of Understanding with Next 5 General Company, a management firm that has helped him negotiate deals and balance his life as a student and content creator. 

“They provide equipment, manage deals, and handle all the requests from potential clients,” he said.  

With their support, Amon has been able to focus on creating high-quality content without being bogged down by administrative work.

Amon’s faith plays a central role in his life.

“Jesus Christ’s life inspires me the most,” he said. “Even if things aren’t working out the way I anticipated, I know Christ suffered too, so it won’t be easy.” 

He envisions a future where his content creation and civil engineering skills converge.

 “I want my online platforms to be a hub for the growth of brands,” he says. He hopes to create a bridge between producers and consumers, using his engineering expertise to bring more value to projects, especially in the arts and entertainment industry. 

His advice to fellow students is simple, but profound: “There’s nothing like the right time. If you love something, start now.”

Ultimately, Amon’s goal is to leave a lasting legacy both in the entertainment industry and in civil engineering. 

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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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Ainamaani (second-left) during a game

UCU student shares experience of representing Uganda at international sports event

Faculty of Engineering, Design & Technology, News, Sports, Students,


Ainamaani (second-left) during a game
Ainamaani (second-left) during a game

By Pauline Luba
In Runyankole, a local dialect in Uganda, the name Ainamaani means “God has power.” It is a name that usually denotes the family’s reverence of God’s ability to accomplish His will in every situation.

That is the name Oriho Silver, an engineer and Kyokusiima Leonard, a businesswoman, chose for their daughter, Rachael. And, indeed, Ainamaani’s life is one that has demonstrated God’s will and power.

Take for instance her most recent achievement. This past July, Ainamaani and Morgan Wasswa represented Uganda at the International Mind Games that was hosted in Uganda. Both Ainamaani and Wasswa are students of Uganda Christian University (UCU), pursuing Bachelor of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering.

Ainamaani represented Uganda in this year’s Mind Games championship.
Ainamaani represented Uganda in this year’s Mind Games championship.

Ainamaani’s journey to an international competition is a testament to her determination and belief that with God, nothing is impossible.

Her involvement in mind games wasn’t planned. During high school, Ainamaani didn’t participate in any sports. But she gave it a try when she joined UCU.  

Given the academic demands of her course, Ainamaani opted for mind games, which she thought would be easier. She believed the game would help sharpen her memory without requiring as much physical time and presence as other sports. She learned about the strategic card game they were playing in the championships from her coach, Reagan Egulwa, who introduced her to the sport.

Her decision to participate in this game led her to join university-level competitions. After rigorous training and selection, Ainamaani participated in tours of universities in Uganda, as they popularized the sport. 

The tours culminated in the selection of the national team, with Ainamaani and Wasswa being among those chosen to represent Uganda at the international level. She describes the card game as one that requires silent communication between partners as they navigate a bidding process and play to win tricks and eventually a final contract. With two people forming a team and playing against another pair, the game requires players to be both strategic and mindful of the cards in their hands as they try to get to the highest number of tricks possible.

Although Ainamaani’s training was intense, she faced unexpected challenges on the journey to the championship. Her original playing partner, Awor Joy, was unable to compete, forcing her to team up with a new partner, Wasswa, just a few days before the competition. Despite the last-minute change, Ainamaani and Wasswa quickly adapted, reviewing the rules of the game with their coach and watching videos about the game on YouTube. 

“We trained together for a few days before the competition,” she explains, “and we made it to the 10th position out of 14 teams and 28 players.”

Ainamaani remembers the experience as both intimidating and exciting. She met and competed against students from all over the world, including the USA and France – many of whom had more experience in the game. 

“On the first day, we weren’t used to playing 48 boards a day, but we quickly adjusted to the speed of our competitors,” she says. The high-intensity nature of the competition was unlike anything she had previously experienced, but it proved to be a valuable lesson in adaptability and resilience. Considering that she started learning the sport in May 2024 and was representing the country by July, Ainamaani believes they did their best.

“Being part of the national team, especially when I had never participated in any sport before, was a huge achievement. I also felt proud to represent my university,” she says. Though the competition was tough, Ainamaani appreciates how the game has improved her memory and level of focus, skills she says are directly applicable to her studies in civil engineering. 

Ainamaani wishes she had approached the competition with more confidence. The sight of students from all over the world was initially overwhelming, but once she realized that they were all playing the same game, her nerves calmed. 

Looking to the future, Ainamaani plans to continue playing mind games, with the hope of returning to the national team as a stronger player. 

As the third of five children — three brothers and a sister — she grew up in an environment where family values were at the forefront. She says her parents always supported her dreams, providing a stable foundation for her growth. 

“I grew up in a humble and loving family, with my parents always available to guide and encourage me,” she reflected.

Ainamaani attended St. Benedict Primary School in Hoima, followed by St. Peter’s High School and later Trinity Catholic High School in Kakumiro District. All the three schools are in western Uganda. 

From a young age, she showed love for physics and mathematics, which naturally led her to dream of becoming an engineer. Her childhood ambition to study at Uganda Christian University was realized in 2023 when she was accepted to pursue civil engineering, a field she had always been passionate about. Her father played a significant role in nurturing her interest in engineering, frequently taking her to construction sites to observe how things worked. “It made me confident about what I was doing,” 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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Dr. Miria Agunyo explains to farmers the benefits of using fresh waste to make biogas

Engineering faculty trains Mukono farmers on biogas technology

Faculty of Engineering, Design & Technology, News, Students, , , ,


Dr. Miria Agunyo explains to farmers the benefits of using fresh waste to make biogas
Dr. Miria Agunyo explains to farmers the benefits of using fresh waste to make biogas

By Irene Best Nyapendi
Waste was once defined only as something with no purpose, but this is no longer the case.  The definition of waste as something useless is not accurate among a growing number of Uganda Christian University (UCU) students and staff who are informed and involved in various resource recovery initiatives. 

Most recently, the Faculty of Engineering, Design, and Technology (FEDT) at UCU invited at least 12 farmers from within the Mukono area to learn what the institution is doing to recover resources from waste. On September 11, a training session for the dozen farmers introduced them to organic waste management approaches, biogas technology, occupational health and safety measures and application of bioslurry in agriculture. The training was facilitated by a team that included Ass. Prof. Eleanor Wozei, Ass. Prof. Sarah Kizza-Nkambwe, Mr. Arnold Mugisha, Mr. Okot Innocent, Mr. Eddy Ojara and Dr. Miria Agunyo. Agunyo is the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Design and Technology and the principal investigator of the project.

Farmers observe bio-slurry during the training
Farmers observe bio-slurry during the training

Farmers walked away having learned how biogas, a renewable energy fuel, is produced from biodegradation of organic waste streams, including food and animal waste. They also learned how the bio-slurry can be used as fertilizer for their crops. Through this technology, greenhouse gas emissions, such as of methane, are prevented, as well as the pollution of soil and water by the waste from landfills. The training took place at the UCU Biogas Plant, which was constructed and commissioned in September 2023, with support from Bingo Projektförderung (project funding) in Germany.

Under this project, Dr. Agunyo said UCU is working hand in hand with the Artefact Centre in Germany to train people how to make simple biogas digester systems while promoting the use of other by-products, such as bioslurry. 

She added: “We want biogas technology to be something an ordinary person can do with very little support.”

Through the Bingo project grant funding of 30,000 Euros ($33,478), UCU installed a 12-cubic-meter digester tank that converts waste into biogas at the UCU water treatment plant and serves as a teaching tool for waste management and construction of digesters. Artefact Centre is doing the same in Germany, demonstrating simple do-it-yourself systems, enabling young people to appreciate the technology through traineeships.

“Recently, we fabricated our own digesters using plastic containers, which has helped us explain how simple biogas technology can be, from construction to operation,” Dr. Agunyo said. 

“The biogas we produce is used in the UCU kitchen, and the bioslurry is used as fertilizer in our demonstration gardens and this component was carried out by our colleagues from the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, led by Dr. Rosemary Bulyaba.”

The Bingo Project aimed to demonstrate that as a university, we can sustainably manage the organic waste streams generated from within UCU and use the biogas produced to substitute firewood use at the UCU kitchen, hence promoting the use of clean cooking fuels and enhancing farming through the use of bioslurry.

Farmers learn about the process of biogas production, from mixing feedstock to utilizing the gas
Farmers learn about the process of biogas production, from mixing feedstock to utilizing the gas

Some of the participants who attended the training indicated their interest to make changes.  

“I’m tired of using charcoal, and I am excited to use waste to make biogas because it’s clean and will help me prepare meals faster,” said Prossy Birungi, one of the farmers who attended the training.  “Biogas is a double blessing; I hope to use it for cooking and the residue as manure.”

 

She commended UCU for the hands-on training, which demystified biogas technology. 

“I used to hear rumors about biogas on TV, but I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn how to make and use it,” Birungi said. 

Another farmer, Allan Kakembo, from Bugujju in Mukono, noted that manure and animal feed have been costly. He is hopeful that the bio-slurry used in his banana and maize plantation will improve production while reducing expenses.  

“Waste has been a challenge to me, and I am glad I can now benefit from it,” Kakembo said. “I look forward to using waste from my kitchen and animal waste to make biogas, instead of dumping 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.

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Said Muhamod

UCU Writing Center students share experiences

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


Said Muhamod
Said Muhamod


(On October 20, 2022, the main campus of Uganda Christian University (UCU) officially opened a writing center located at Hamu Mukasa Library.  Guided by Prof. Tom Deans, director of a writing center at the University of Connecticut, USA, the purpose was to help students improve their writing skills in all disciplines.  The model is one of personalised support to students through one-on-one coaching, workshops, and other resources.  According to Kajubi Martin, the center’s acting manager, over 200 students have been served. Michael Ainomugisha, a student in the UCU School of Journalism, Media and Communication, interviewed a few of these students.)

Said Muhamod – School of Social Sciences
“As an international student from Somalia, I used to struggle to write essays and tasks. The Writing Center has helped me develop my skills in essay writing, research methodologies, and dissertations. They offered individual feedback on my work, including advice on proper formatting and directions. Weekly lessons aimed to improve my grammar and fluency, which greatly improved my abilities to write and speak English. Furthermore, the Center taught me how to write resumes and application letters. The Writing Center has been excellent in assisting me in adapting to my assignments and overcoming language barriers, considerably improving my academic achievement and communication skills.”

Agenorwot Daphine Amone
Agenorwot Daphine Amone

Agenorwot Daphine Amone – Faculty of Engineering, Design and Technology
“One of the reasons I went to the Writing Centre was because I needed help to improve my writing skills in terms of essays and answering assignments. I was connected to a coach in a course unit, and I have learned a lot and improved my writing. I believe that learning is an ongoing process, so I will continue to attend the sessions at the Writing Center. Also. I have learned communication skills, particularly in public speaking. Mr. Kajubi helped us with presentations in class, and we practised talking about ourselves, which helped me gain confidence and be the best version of ourselves when speaking to a large audience. I believe that I will continue to learn from the Writing Center and continue to improve my writing skills.”

Nambuya Whitney Gladys – School of Business
“I got to know about the Writing Center after visiting the library regularly, and I saw the poster outside. I also had two of my classmates who are members of the Writing Center so I got to know more about it from them. The coaches have guided us on how to write our dissertations, which is one of the requirements as you are graduating in our final year of the course. It’s interesting, we learn more and this is a point in time where I was supposed to write something like a review which was one of the questions that we were doing in game Writing and Study skills two, so it kind of challenged me. I would rate my writing to 8.5 (out of 10) before seeking help. I would really struggle with how to write particular things like limits of the CV, the letters. I was narrowed down to some basic things but after interacting more with them, I got guidance and more things that would be beneficial for me when I move out of the university.”

Kukundakwe Hope –  School of Business
“The UCU Writing Center has been a transformative resource for me. I’ve learned how to make proper references and citations, write essays and approach my coursework with greater confidence. The guidance I’ve received on how to write my course units has been invaluable. This support has significantly elevated my coursework marks and improved my CGPA. The coaches at the Writing Centre have been helpful, providing assistance and ensuring I understand the best approaches to my coursework. They go above and beyond to help us excel in our dissertations and research work, which has greatly enhanced my overall academic performance. My experience at the Writing Centre has been exceptional, and I am grateful for the skills and knowledge gained. Their commitment to student success is evident, and I highly recommend their services to any student looking to improve their academic writing and performance.”

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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.

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

Sarah Nsereko with UCU Chancellor Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu

Student credits friends with work-world experience, parents and reading for ‘best’ designation

Faculty of Engineering, Design & Technology, News, Students, UCU Alumni, , ,


Sarah Nsereko with UCU Chancellor Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu
Sarah Nsereko with UCU Chancellor Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu

By Kefa Senoga
Reaching the top among 1,159 students at Uganda Christian University (UCU) was no walk in the park for Sarah Nsereko. With a Grade-Point Average of 4.72 out of 5.0, she received a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and beat other students’ academic standing at the July graduation.  

While other students were engaged in extracurricular activities beyond classes, she was reading – often for long hours into the night. 

“There was a lot of sacrifice,” Nsereko said during an interview with Uganda Partners. “There is nothing that comes out of being in the comfort zone; you have to put in the hours.” On weekends, it would not be a surprise to find her in the library.  

Finding energy was sometimes a struggle. 

“I always got the feeling that people were out there enjoying themselves as I was drained in books,” Nsereko says. 

Sarah Nsereko receiving award from UCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi
Sarah Nsereko receiving award from UCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi

For her effort, she excelled. The university gave her an award on graduation day. That achievement, Nsereko says, will inspire her siblings to do well at school. Nsereko is the first born of three children.

In addition to her own efforts, Nsereko largely attributes her success to the friends she had at the university. 

“I kept the company of people who were working and many of them had industry knowledge, which they usually shared with me,” she says. 

She names her classmate, Charles Muganga, as her mentor, saying he was always available to offer advice on any academic matter. Two months ago, Muganga led the best pitching team at a national hackathon in Uganda.

“Things became increasingly difficult each semester at school, but Nsereko persisted and kept pushing forward,” Muganga said. “She spent sleepless nights, sought additional consultations, but above all, she also kept on encouraging us.”

Nsereko also attributes her success to the Robotics Club, where she says she received academic guidance, especially on the practical aspects of the course. 

Thanks to her parents — Mr. and Mrs. Hilda Nsereko — Nsereko says her tuition was always paid on time. To pay back  her parents’ hard work, she studied hardl. 

According to Mr. Nsereko, his daughter has had a positive impact by setting a good example for her younger siblings to emulate. He adds that the knowledge Nsereko has gained will be useful to the family, as well as the community.

He said his daughter, who he describes as God-fearing, always seeks clarity on anything not clear to her, in addition to seeking new knowledge. 

Now that Nsereko has completed her bachelor’s degree, she is focusing on finding employment. But that will only be after she completes her current internship at Stanbic Bank, where she says she is gaining valuable experience. 

“I hope to use my knowledge mostly to automate tasks because that’s what I specialised in,” she says.

Nsereko completed her primary education at Kampala Junior Academy and her secondary education at Nabisunsa Girls School. Both schools are in Kampala.

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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

Ddumba poses with his five awards for academic excellence and leadership. The Recognition Award (for being Guild President), The Academic Excellence Award (for first class), The Pinnacle Award (for being an exceptional visionary leader) and The Overall Best Male Award.

Guild president becomes best student at July graduation

Faculty of Engineering, Design & Technology, News, Students, UCU Alumni, , ,


Ddumba poses with his five awards for academic excellence and leadership. The Recognition Award (for being Guild President), The Academic Excellence Award (for first class), The Pinnacle Award (for being an exceptional visionary leader) and The Overall Best Male Award.
Ddumba poses with his four awards for academic excellence and leadership. The Recognition Award (for being Guild President), The Academic Excellence Award (for first class), The Pinnacle Award (for being an exceptional visionary leader) and The Overall Best Male Award.

By Pauline Luba
A Guild President in a university is the bridge between students and the university administration. The job holder relays any issues affecting students to the university, and this is usually done through correspondences and regular meetings. 

That was the work of Timothy Ddumba, who was the Guild President at the Uganda Christian University main campus from December 2022 to December 2023. Even with such a demanding role, in addition to attending to his studies, Ddumba has shown that he is a special student. At the July 5, 2024, graduation, where Ddumba was awarded a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, he was named the Best Male Student of UCU with a Grade Point Average of 4.64 out of 5.0.

Ddumba was the 25th Guild president and best overall male graduate at the recent graduation.
Ddumba was the 25th Guild president and best overall male graduate at the recent graduation.

How did he manage to pull off such a performance with the added responsibilities of leadership?

“I knew I didn’t have as much time as others did,” Ddumba said during the interview with Uganda Partners, adding: “So, I always made sure I sat at the front in class and paid maximum attention, to get the point. I would also be the first to do assignments.”

At that, he was shocked to learn that he was the best male student.

 “I knew I had a first class, but I didn’t know I was the best performer,” he said. “I found out during an interview when asked about how it felt to be the best.”

His parents — Mr. and Mrs. Makumbi — could not contain the excitement as they watched their son on the red carpet, going to receive his prize – a plaque — on graduation day. 

“It felt so good,” said Mrs. Makumbi, “There are so many students, but seeing yours walking down the carpet was amazing. I thank God. It has always been his dream, since he was in primary school, and we are so proud of him. I pray he gets a brighter future and achieves all his dreams.”

Mrs. Makumbi is Ddumba’s step-mother. His biological mother, Winnie Makumbi, died in 2008. In contesting for the position of Guild President in 2022, Ddumba did not have to look far for inspiration. While a student, his father was the guild president of Kyambogo University. 

Ddumba with his parents during his graduation
Ddumba with his parents during his graduation

“My mother is also a big part of who I am today,” Ddumba said. He explains that he grew up looking up to his mother and her leadership. Growing up, their home was always open to the community and they frequently walked around, talking to people about their issues and helping them to find solutions. 

As early as primary school, Ddumba was a leader at school. At Sir Apollo Kaggwa Primary School in Kampala, he was the school’s president, the apex leadership position for learners. For his secondary education, Ddumba attended the elite King’s College, Budo near Kampala, where he was again one of the student leaders. In an earlier interview with Uganda Partners, Ddumba said Budo was the cradle of his leadership growth because, through his leadership at the school, he learned to communicate, and to manage people. 

During his tenure as Guild President, Ddumba ensured the inter-faculty games competition returned to the main campus. Ddumba also led the drive for the Guild Run, where money for tuition is collected to benefit students facing financial hardships. The run, which covered six kilometers (three miles) around Mukono in central Uganda, took place on October 21, 2023. Uganda’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister in charge East African Affairs, Rebecca Kadaga, was the main guest at the event that collected over $6,000 in cash and hope.

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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

Prof. Monica Chibita, dean, UCU School of Journalism, Media and Communication, at left, was one of the contributor participants during the coffee-and-paint 10K fundraising event.

10K Campaign: ‘a little could yield a lot’

Faculty of Engineering, Design & Technology, News, Students, UCU School of Journalism, Media and Communication


Prof. Monica Chibita, dean, UCU School of Journalism, Media and Communication, at left, was one of the contributor participants during the coffee-and-paint 10K fundraising event.
Prof. Monica Chibita, Dean, UCU School of Journalism, Media and Communication, at left, was one of the contributor participants during the coffee-and-paint 10K fundraising event.

In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic curfews and shutdowns, Uganda Christian University (UCU) devised a strategy to help students pay tuition. That strategy, which is still in effect, is called the 10K campaign with 10K referring to a donation of 10,000 shillings or $2.50 American. 

“The whole world was struggling,” UCU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi recalled of the years 2020 and 2021. “Here, with employment closed off, it was especially hard for students to continue their education even with our stepped-up, on-line learning. We thought that an appeal for a little could yield a lot.” 

It did. 

In May 2022, the campaign was launched by Archbishop His Grace Stephen Kazimba Mugalu, who also is the chancellor for the University. By the summer of 2024, more than 100 students had benefited from the 10K campaign. 

Approximately 15,000 people contributed 160 million shillings ($42,686) to make that happen. To date, student recipients are from the faculties and schools in law, journalism, engineering, computer science, public health, social science and business.  

In addition to traditional and social media appeals and a Go Fund Me page, the 10K initiative engaged in an auction, a running/athletic event, three garage/yard sales, a coffee-and-paint activity, a comedy event and birthday pledges. 

“For the sales, we collected items from throughout the Mukono and Kampala communities as well as from students and staff,” said Dorothy Tushemereirwe, fundraising consultant, and the facilitator of the campaign. “They donated kitchenware, toys, books, clothing and other articles that we sold at reasonable prices to raise funds.”

The coffee-and-paint event was a collaborative with the UCU Coffee Club and UCU

Coffee-and-paint fundraiser participants included (left to right) Josephine Nyende, lecturer, Art and Audio Visual; Francis Alphonse Obonyo, project manager, The Citizen Report Uganda; Dorothy Tushemereirwe, fundraising consultant; and Ashton Aryamanya, lecturer, School of Business.
Coffee-and-paint fundraiser participants included (left to right) Josephine Nyende, lecturer, Art and Audio Visual; Francis Alphonse Obonyo, project manager, The Citizen Report Uganda; Dorothy Tushemereirwe, fundraising consultant; and Ashton Aryamanya, lecturer, School of Business.

art and visual programs. Students served coffee and guided novice painters who paid sh30,000 ($8 American) for a cup of coffee and a painting on canvas. 

Appreciation stories are many.  

Mukhaye Mercy, a recent graduate of the UCU School of Journalism, Media and Communication, was on the verge of missing her exams with a tuition balance of 3.6 million shillings ($960 American). UCU has a policy that students can’t take exams if fees aren’t paid. The 10K helped diminish the balance. 

“I would like to thank God for the 10K campaign,” she said.  “I am sure I would have missed exams and gotten a dead year if it wasn’t for the campaign.”

Byishimo Ronald, now a fourth-year student in civil engineering, says the funding assistance “came at a critical time when I needed support for top-up of my tuition, at the last minute.” He added, “I cleared my tuition and performed well, better than the previous semesters.”

The pandemic is over but the financial need isn’t. 

While UCU administration is discussing whether the project should evolve to something else, the tuition boost campaign is housed under the development office beneath the office of the Vice Chancellor. The donors in East Africa can wire money to a UCU Stanbic bank account –9030005916673 in the name of Uganda Christian University or they can make direct deposits on the fundraising line, which is +256-776-999-490. 

Americans wishing to contribute can use the God Fund Me link at https://www.gofundme.com/f/needy-university-students.

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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

Aryatunga Eugene (left) enjoyed road construction.

UCU students share experiences during internships

Faculty of Engineering, Design & Technology, News, Students, UCU School of Journalism, Media and Communication, UCU School of Social Sciences, , , , , , ,


By Pauline Luba
The Uganda Christian University (UCU) handbook states three reasons that students are required to have internships: 1) practicing in real-world settings; 2) learning to set realistic objectives and meaningful processes for both supervision and reflection on the experience; and 3) for practicals to be measured in credits.

For the internship to be successful, students are required to complete certain tasks, as determined by programs within the universities 11 faculties and schools. At UCU, the internship requirements vary from faculty to faculty. For instance, in some, an intern is expected to spend eight weeks at a registered company, firm, or nonprofit that aligns with the student’s field of study. 

The hours and the workload for students are not determined by the university but by their internship center. The supervisor and team dictate what the students’ tasks will be. The timing of the internships at UCU also varies. For example, some diploma programs require students to complete their mandatory internship after their first year, whereas degree programs may require students to complete their mandatory internships either after the second semester of their second year or after the first semester of their third year. 

At the end of the internship, the supervisor is required to fill out an internship evaluation form, rating the intern. The intern is also required to produce an internship report and submit evidence of their work, such as daily diaries, pictures and other relevant documentation. Since marks are awarded for this, one cannot graduate without completing an internship and fulfilling the requirements.

Some of the students who undertook internships in the recent past shared their positive and negative experiences as follows: 

Alikobakwoyo Leah Kabi shares her struggles.
Alikobakwoyo Leah Kabi shares her struggles.

Leah Alikobakwoyo Kabi, Bachelor of Arts in the School of Journalism, Media and Communication
I started applying for internships in December last year, shortly after exams. I applied to over 65 organizations and media houses but got no positive response. Eventually, someone connected me to an agency where I got a placement, but I resigned three weeks into my internship. I spent sh30,000 ($8 American) daily on transport to a place where I watched Netflix, ate food, and occasionally slept during working hours. I was supposed to be there from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Being a proactive person, I couldn’t stand a life of dormancy.

An organization reached out to give me an opportunity, but they kept me waiting for another three weeks. I regretted resigning from the first agency, but couldn’t go back. Eventually, I got a placement at a communication agency called Kalaz Media near Kampala. This opportunity was the best I could ever ask for. I learned a lot, and gained invaluable skills.

Aryatunga Eugene (left) enjoyed road construction.
Aryatunga Eugene (left) enjoyed road construction.

Aryatunga Eugene, Bachelor of Civil and Environmental Engineering
I was an intern at a construction company. They really showed effort in trying to teach me because they all knew I was there to learn. They were friendly people. Many of them are below 30 years of age, so we could easily connect. Of course, we are not paid as interns because we were volunteers. Part of the work involved doing tests on the roads, and making sure that whatever we did was up to standard.

 

 

Mulezimuto Job, Bachelor of Governance and International Relations

Mulezimuto Job would love to return to his place of internship.
Mulezimuto Job would love to return to his place of internship.

I had my internship at the Parliament of Uganda from January 31 to April 26. I was in the Department of Communications and Public Affairs as a protocol officer-intern. This internship was life-changing and full of many life lessons. Concerning my field of study, I found it quite relevant because I was looking at how the legislative arm of government works and how the business of legislation is conducted. On the protocol side, I learned how things are organized, how to receive guests, and how to organize events. It taught me a lot about administration, communication, events organization, and more.

Work was hands-on. For example, we welcomed parliamentary guests, visited schools, and provided them with tours or virtual tours of the institution, giving them an educational experience and interaction. This internship sparked ambitions in me, making me realize I could pursue more than just a career as a diplomat, governance expert, or political analyst. It made me consider becoming an active politician in the national politics of Uganda. 

Ausi Rama encourages one to speak up.
Ausi Rama encourages one to speak up.

Ausi Rama, Bachelor of Procurement and Logistic Management
I had my internship at Ntinda Vocational Institute, located in Ntinda, near Kampala. My supervisor was a mentor to me, guiding me through the entire work process. I learned about procurement laws, the evaluation process, how to handle certain documents, and how to engage with suppliers. I also learned how to manage Excel sheets, take minutes for meetings, and conduct presentations during sessions, as well as pitch ideas. 

 

 

Karuhanga Edward learned more about logistics.
Karuhanga Edward learned more about logistics.

Karuhanga Edward, Bachelor of Procurement and Logistic Management
I am Karuhanga Edward. I had my internship at the Office of the Auditor General, in the procurement department, where I was exposed to many aspects of procurement-related work. I handled many files, and learned the whole procurement process, from bid opening to contract management and evaluation. I also learned several skills related to working with people and being a team player. 

(NOTE – Two videos, produced by Chris Mutch, supplement this  story. One this is a student perspective is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9T_vpEsNG_Q&t=55s.  Another from an administrative and employer perspective is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eok5Y8mIfe8. Both address the issue of sexual harassment.) 

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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

Charles Muganga presenting his team's pitch at the Agri-Tech Hackathon

UCU computer student leads best pitching team at national hackathon

Faculty of Engineering, Design & Technology, News, Science and Technology, Students, ,


Charles Muganga presenting his team's pitch at the Agri-Tech Hackathon
Charles Muganga presenting his team’s pitch at the Agri-Tech Hackathon

By Kefa Senoga
Charles Muganga, a final-year student in the Bachelor of Computer Science program at Uganda Christian University (UCU), finds himself deep in agriculture some days. Misunderstanding about what soil nutrients can yield the best crops and how data can clarify that brought him and other peers there.  

When the fertility of the garden soil is poor, farmers get low quality produce. Many working the fields devise means of increasing the productivity of the soil, such as using fertilizers to add more nutrients. To apply the necessary fertilizer, a farmer must know what nutrients are deficient and what their soils need. The smallholder farmers add fertilizers based on experience, what is available on the market or what other farmers recommend. Because of the lack of knowledge of the genetic makeup of the soil, blanket application of fertilizers can lead to wrong nutrients applied to the soil, under fertilization or overfertilization. 

Muganga (left) interacting with one mentor at the hackathon
Muganga (left) interacting with one mentor at the hackathon

Muganga and other Bachelor of Computer Science students came up with ideas that could empower farmers to increase productivity and profitability by understanding the soil data. The idea was presented at an agricultural technology event — the The Agri-Tech hackathon — hosted in Kampala in May at the Uganda Institute of Information and Communications Technology (UICT).

A hackathon is an event where, mainly computer programmers, come together to solve a problem or identify new opportunities through software programming. The May event brought together hundreds of young innovators from various universities to design digital tools that could help address critical challenges within Uganda’s agricultural sector.

“We came up with a simple testing kit with a data-driven advisory model that can test for the nutrients in the soil and advise the farmers on what kind of crops to plant,” explained Muganga, who teamed up with computer science students from other universities to develop the concept.

Muganga (second-left) and his team being awarded for the best pitch
Muganga (second-left) and his team being awarded for the best pitch

The agricultural technology hackathon was held in collaboration with government stakeholders including the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology and National Guidance, the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, and the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC). 

Muganga elaborated that their solution also caters to monoculture farmers who grow a single crop year after year on the same land. He described how their soil-testing kit, which is AI-integrated, can provide farmers with clear guidance, in lay language, on the most effective methods to use to continue sustaining high productivity.

“The AI is intended to avoid using technical terms such as “magnesium” and instead simplify the information for farmers. It will explain the type of manure and the quantity required in practical terms, such as recommending 50 kilograms (110 pounds) of cow dung or chicken droppings,” Muganga explained.

According to government statistics, in 2022, agriculture accounted for about 24.1% of Uganda’s Gross Domestic Product and contributed 33% of the export earnings. About 70% of Uganda’s working population is employed in the agriculture sector. 

According to Uganda’s statistics agency, the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), between 2016 and 2020, there was an 8 percent increase in households participating in subsistence agriculture, with many more people switching to the sector during the pandemic as a result of job losses. The country also has an aging farmer profile — 55 percent of the heads of the households that practice farming are over 40 years, while 20 percent over the age of 60 years.

The solution that Muganga, as team leader, and his colleagues pitched earned them a reward of sh2.2 million (about $577).

Joyce Ssebugwawo, the state minister for ICT, addressing students at the event
Joyce Ssebugwawo, the state minister for ICT, addressing students at the event

This hackathon that focused on utilizing technology to address agricultural challenges saw the students from different schools develop digital solutions to tackle challenges in four key agricultural areas — soil health, inputs (seeds and fertilizers), value chain issues (logistics and post-harvest handling) and water management.

The digital solutions incubated at the hackathon are expected to solve key agriculture sector challenges, for instance low uptake of improved agriculture inputs, limited access to suitable financial products and low access to reliable weather information, among others.

Uganda’s Minister of State for ICT, Joyce Ssebugwawo, who attended the hackathon, said innovations, such as those pitched at the event, have the potential to offer long-term solutions for problems in agriculture.

“We must acknowledge the persistent challenges that have hindered our progress like limited access to markets for agricultural products and gaps in technology infrastructure which continue to pose obstacles to our development efforts,” Ssebugwawo said.

The next step for Muganga and other incubators is to actualize their ideas for the benefit of Ugandan farmers.

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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

Sekamatte Solomon and Jamugisa Paul

UCU duo seeks to create affordable robotic wheelchair

Faculty of Engineering, Design & Technology, News, Students, , , ,


Sekamatte Solomon and Jamugisa Paul
Sekamatte Solomon and Jamugisa Paul

By Kefa Senoga
Sekamatte Solomon and Jamugisa Paul, final-year students at Uganda Christian University (UCU), have resolved to make their three years at the university count through an innovation they think will be useful to the Ugandan community. The duo is working on a robotic wheelchair to help people with disabilities to live more independently.

Using an already-made prototype, Sekamatte and Jamugisa have started the process of actualizing their initiative. According to Sekamatte, they chose the idea of a robotic wheelchair because “it solves problems of the everyday person.” The two are students of the Bachelor of Computer Science at UCU.

The prototypes of the wheelchair
The prototypes of the wheelchair

In Uganda, only two per cent of the 12.4 percent of persons living with some form of disability have access to assistive technology services, such as the conventional power wheelchairs.

“We realised that many people with movement impairments face difficulties with their movement due to the fact that some need attendants to push them in the wheelchairs while others must exert some effort to use the wheelchair,” Sekamatte says.

People whose neuromuscular structures and functions have been affected end up losing independence in the daily personal activities that they perform. As a result, they rely more on other people helping them to get along. However, Sekamatte and Jamugisa want to change, or at least reduce this trend by enabling effective communication between the person and the wheelchair.

The duo says whenever they present the prototype of their idea, many people wonder what makes it unique because similar wheelchairs have already been created and are available on the market.

The prototypes of the wheelchair
The prototypes of the wheelchair

However, they justify their concept by emphasizing that their goal is to make a low-cost robotic wheelchair. They argue that because the existing models have to be transported over long distances, by the time they get to Uganda, they are quite expensive, making it difficult for an ordinary Ugandan to afford.

To reduce production costs, Jamugisa says they plan to use locally-made materials in Uganda.

“We are planning to import limited things while manufacturing the wheel chair, for example the seat can be made locally, the steel, wheels and mortars can also be got locally,” Jamugisa says.

According to Sekamatte, they intend to use sensors as a safety precaution, aiming to implement obstacle avoidance capabilities in the wheelchair.

“If there is an obstacle like a car in front, the wheel chair should automatically stop moving,” he says.

He adds that they also have plans of adding a Global Positioning System (GPS) so that the wheelchair can be tracked. This is to enable the caretakers to easily monitor the movement of the people living with disabilities such that they can be able to assist in case of an emergency.

The prototypes of the wheelchair
The prototypes of the wheelchair

According to Jamugisa, the monitoring and control functions will be managed through a smartphone.

“We came up with a mechanism where the wheelchair can be controlled via bluetooth or via a mobile application” Jamugisa says. 

He says they are considering adding a voice recognition application that could allow someone to command the chair using their voice, especially if they cannot use their hands.

“This is a gradual process that moves in phases because whatever you implement, you have to get feedback; if it is not satisfactory, we have to improve,” Jamugisa explains.

Both Sekamatte and Jamugisa have had passions for technology since childhood. Jamugisa shares his long-standing fascination with robotics. He says that when he enrolled for the course at UCU, he discovered that it’s possible to create some of the technology products in people’s daily lives. 

Despite his intense love for technology, Sekamatte says he originally intended to pursue a career in culinary arts because he loves cooking. However, his father convinced him otherwise. Even then, he intends to return to school to learn how to cook some of the continental dishes. 

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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

Faith Amoit Codrine is passionate about structural dynamics

Amoit: From daddy’s to the world’s engineer

Faculty of Engineering, Design & Technology, News, Students, UCU Alumni


Faith Amoit Codrine is passionate about structural dynamics
Faith Amoit Codrine is passionate about structural dynamics

By Kefa Senoga
Long ago, when a television set malfunctioned at the home of Okolong Charles, his daughter, Faith Codrine Amoit, embarked on a mission to repair it. Although she did not get it to perform its function again, Okolong was convinced his daughter would perform well in an engineering career. 

He started calling her “my engineer.”   

The title, “my engineer,” Amoit says, inspired her to pursue a course of her father’s wish. Fortunately for her, she loved science. Because she was fascinated by buildings, Amoit says she opted to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering at Uganda Christian University (UCU), from where she graduated in 2018. 

Her father is deceased, but Amoit continues to keep his dream of an engineer daughter alive.

Amoit during her graduation in the UK
Amoit during her graduation in the UK

The knowledge she garnered at UCU was essential during her 2019-2022 work as Junior Civil Engineer at Dar-Al-Handasah, a global consultancy firm providing design, planning, engineering, sustainability consulting, digital solutions and services, and project management. Dar-Al-Handasah work connects to buildings, cities, transportation, civil infrastructure, water and the environment. During those three years, Amoit was part of the team working on the upgrade and expansion of Entebbe International Airport in Uganda.

Even though she was consistently ranked among the top five students in her course while at UCU, Amoit says things were difficult and that she was “just trying to survive,” not to excel.  She has soldiered on, specialising in the field of structural engineering. From September 2022 to September 2023, Amoit, who is passionate about structural dynamics, was a Chevening Scholar at the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom (UK), where she pursued an MSc in Structural Engineering. 

The Chevening scholarship is intended to attract outstanding emerging leaders from all over the world to pursue one-year master’s degrees in the UK. 

“There is no such thing as a ‘typical’ Chevening Scholar, but those who are successful tend to have ambition, leadership qualities, and a passion for influencing positive change in their home countries,” reads a description of the scholarship on their website. 

The course, according to Amoit, covered critical issues like seismic design, design optimisation, steel and concrete design. 

“My favourite module was the structural design project, which involved the design of the North Stand of the Elland Road football stadium,” she wrote on LinkedIn. The Elland Road is the home of England Championship club Leeds United.

“The study compared the structural systems based on lateral displacement as an effect of wind, cost and carbon footprint,” she wrote, adding that such knowledge is essential for structural engineers when designing buildings of different heights at the conceptual stage. Her dissertation work involved learning how to use software and robotics simulation. 

Since her return from the UK in January this year, Amoit has been involved in private work, helping to produce structural drawings and plans for clients.

Amoit says she would love to be the beacon of hope in the engineering field dominated by men. She wishes to affirm to young women that pursuing a course in engineering is possible. Currently, she is mentoring some girls to interest them into the field of engineering.

“When different groups approach me to seek advice and talk to girls, I willingly take up those spaces to offer encouragement and support to them.”

Amoit also takes advantage of another platform — Rotaract, a not-for-profit service organisation — where she is actively involved, to continue mentoring girls through the Rotaract Ladies Initiative. 

“We used to go to different parts of the country every year to empower young women into making things like sanitary towels and equipping them with different skills like crocheting, tailoring, to help them generate income.”

Amoit attended Shimoni Demonstration School for her primary education, St Maria Goretti Katende for O’level and St Mary’s Secondary School, Kitende for A’level. All the three schools are located in central 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.

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

Atwiine Barinaba demonstrating his art skills.

Young creatives demonstrate projects at career exhibition

Faculty of Engineering, Design & Technology, News, Students, UCU School of Journalism, Media and Communication, UCU School of Law


The Uganda Christian University (UCU) Honors College recently collaborated with Usanii Village-Africa, a non-governmental organization, the UCU Directorate of Student Affairs, and the university’s 26th Guild Government to conduct a career exhibition. Themed “Navigating Horizons; a Journey Through Diverse Careers,” the exhibition, held at the UCU main campus in Mukono, was intended to showcase ideas from different faculties and schools, in addition to linking the students to industry players. The Faculty of Engineering, Design, and Technology was recognized as the top exhibitor, with the School of Business and the School of Law following in that order. Partners Intern Kefa Senoga talked to some exhibitors.

Atwiine Barinaba demonstrating his art skills.
Atwiine Barinaba demonstrating his art skills.

I use the proceeds from the sale of the art pieces to support myself at school. The cost of the art pieces ranges from sh10,000 (about $2.6) to as high as sh2.5million (about $644). The business of selling art is not one where someone can depend solely since the money does not come in every day.

Art can also be a service. For example, it would be a better option to hire an artist to perform the work of interior design, rather than one without any knowledge of art. I have also started private classes for children, so I can teach them the subject of art outside the classroom setting.

Okot Innocent, Bachelor of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering
Okot Innocent, Bachelor of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering

The technologies we’re exhibiting represent clean cooking solutions. Among the technologies is a stove that utilizes bi-ethanol, derived from fermented starch-producing foods like sugarcane waste, maize and sorghum. It’s considered a sustainable clean-cooking method because we get the bi-ethanol without burning charcoal or cutting down trees.

When bi-ethanol is poured into this stove, it produces a blue or luminous smokeless flame, which is ideal for cooking. By using this stove, we not only decrease reliance on burning fuels, but also mitigate gas emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment.

We are also exhibiting a gasifier, another cooking technology, where you can put in your biomass, for example charcoal, wood or briquettes. This technology produces some soot or smoke, but it is thin. When this smoke goes out, it mixes with the clean air, but the effect is less because it’s thin, with fewer particles or pollutants.

Michael Ainomugisha conducts an interview for his podcasts.
Michael Ainomugisha conducts an interview for his podcasts.

We have fruits in our stall because we can’t talk about fitness without talking about nutrition. Fruits are an essential component in ensuring a healthy and fit body. In our community, many eateries do not include fruits on their menu. We, however, prioritize the inclusion of fruits as we preach the gospel of fitness

As the UCU Fitness Club, we support our members to access their essential fruits. We support students on different fitness endeavors – some people come to us with a request to reduce their weight, while others just want to keep fit.

Our club works with different organizations to foster holistic health like mental, physical and spiritual, among their employees. Currently, our activities are primarily conducted at the main campus, but we intend to expand our presence to other university campuses in the near future.

Michael Ainomugisha conducts an interview for his podcasts.
Michael Ainomugisha conducts an interview for his podcasts.

I am showcasing an innovation of a podcast, which is best explained as an audio storytelling platform, for issues to do with mental health.

Last year, when the New Vision newspaper published an article stating that 14 million Ugandans were affected by mental health issues, they did not delve deeper into the specific impact of that on the youth. In the Ainomugisha Podcast, there’s an episode titled “Life Experiences,” where youth openly share how they overcome mental health challenges.

I once interviewed a woman who shared her journey of using alcohol as a coping mechanism to forget the challenges she was facing at the time. She also explained to us how she managed to stop taking alcohol. Subsequently, she started a sobriety platform. Our podcast aims to share such experience to inspire others who could be facing similar challenges.

Byaruhanga Joshua Morris, Bachelor of Laws
Byaruhanga Joshua Morris, Bachelor of Laws

As the School of Law, we created a user-friendly “UCU Law” app to help both legal professionals and the laypeople. The app is intended to make it easier to draft tenancy agreements and to access legal documents in text and audio format, including statutes, acts, laws and cases.

We chose tenancy agreements because it affects a majority of Ugandans who are either owners of property or tenants in the properties they occupy. Processing a tenancy agreement on the app only requires entering the necessary information requested on the portal, such as name, address, and contact details, among others.

The developers created the app with students in mind, since many of them seek accommodation in hostels outside the university. The other advantage that can be accrued from using the app is access to a statute board that allows students to easily access the statutes through the platform. 

The app, which is available for free access through the UCU International Humanitarian Law blog, also provides audio cases, which law students can take advantage in their course. 

Dickson Tumuramye, head of the Honors College at UCU

According to Tumuramye, they organized the exhibition to provide a platform for students with different innovations.

“Since we are in an era of innovations and employment, this was an opportunity for the students to showcase their work to potential employers who could either hire them or offer them placements for internship opportunities,” Tumuramye says.

He added that the organizers wanted to showcase what UCU students can do. 

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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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Ananda Tayebwa, 21, final year Bachelor of Journalism and Mass Communication at Uganda Christian University

Ugandan students share thoughts on celebrating Easter

Easter, Faculty of Engineering, Design & Technology, Journalism, News, Students, UCU School of Medicine


The Easter season marks the end of Lent, the fasting period for Christians. People celebrate Easter differently. Partners Intern Pauline Luba asked four students from three universities how they usually celebrate the Easter season and what the season means to them.

Ananda Tayebwa, 21, final year Bachelor of Journalism and Mass Communication at Uganda Christian University

Ananda Tayebwa, 21, final year Bachelor of Journalism and Mass Communication at Uganda Christian UniversityAs a Catholic, the Easter season is a really special time for me. It’s the time when we remember the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus Christ paid for us, sinners, by dying on the cross and celebrating his resurrection. This brings hope to us that we, too, will resurrect and find new life in Heaven. 

To me, Easter is a time of renewal, forgiveness and joy. As Catholics, to

prepare adequately to celebrate Easter, we ought to fast, like we did during Lent, confess our sins and also give alms. 

Honestly, I didn’t know that people actually celebrated the Easter bunny. This practice, in my view, clashes with traditional Christianity in that it draws people away from the main focus, which is Jesus and His defeat of death. I think it’s fascinating how the different denominations celebrate Easter because regardless of what we believe, we all acknowledge it’s a time for joy and celebration.

⁠Across Christianity, the overall message is one of hope, redemption, and the victory of life over death. It’s a reminder of God’s love for us and the promise of eternal life through Jesus. It’s a powerful and uplifting message that unites Christians around the world.

 

Kelly Williams Kayanja, 24, Makerere University/Multitech, student of Bachelor of Information Technology
Kelly Williams Kayanja, 24, Makerere University/Multitech, student of Bachelor of Information Technology

With a friend, we used to visit another common friend of ours, to discuss issues of faith.  Part of the debate we always had was about God and science. At the time, we had almost no faith in God’s teaching. As a result, the Easter season would pass just as any other holiday season.  The Bible wasn’t making scientific sense to me. 

However, thanks to our frequent visits to our friend, we soon started to believe in God’s existence. I reverted to Christianity in my final year in A’level. The Easter season brings family members together and is really symbolic of the love of God. 

 

Elaine Wabwire, 22, Rhodes University (South Africa), final year student of Bachelor of Journalism and Mass communication
Elaine Wabwire, 22, Rhodes University (South Africa), final year student of Bachelor of Journalism and Mass communication

About 11 years ago while still in primary school, we would decorate eggs with glitter and then participate in the Easter egg hunt, after which we would share a meal. However, I no longer participate in the egg hunt anymore. 

Traditional Christian Easter practices focus on the resurrection of Jesus. The Easter period is a time to reflect, pray and donate to charity. It would be important if the true meaning of the Easter celebration is drummed up in the minds of the children, so they understand it from a young age.

As they mature and outgrow the Easter bunny games, I believe that their focus will shift towards the religious aspect of the holiday and that they will appreciate it for what it truly represents.

 

Kisaakye Pearl Sharon, 22, Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, Uganda Christian University - Kampala campus
Kisaakye Pearl Sharon, 22, Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, Uganda Christian University – Kampala campus

Easter is a holiday season we look forward to every year and, usually, we celebrate it with sermons on Sundays. We are usually encouraged to live our lives the way Jesus Christ did. After church, people usually go home to spend time with their families, play games, eat food and sometimes we have movie nights where we watch movies like the Passion of Christ and other plays. Easter can be celebrated in whichever way one dims fit. I think the way one celebrates the death and resurrection of Jesus should not affect the way another person celebrates, as long as they believe in the saving grace of our Lord and savior.

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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

Reagan Okello’s art depicting people with animal heads

From life of hopelessness, art gives Okello a livelihood

Faculty of Engineering, Design & Technology, News, Students


Reagan Okello’s art depicting people with animal heads
Reagan Okello’s art depicting people with animal heads

By Irene Best Nyapendi
One of the reasons Reagan Okello loves art is it gives him the latitude to express himself beyond what the eyes and cameras can see. By doing so, Okello is able to tell a story that is different and  “complete.”

Take, for instance, one of the pieces with an imposing presence in Okello’s art gallery. The piece depicts eight people dancing in a nightclub. On a closer look, some of the people have animal heads in place of human heads. This is one example, Okello argues, that art has an edge over the human eye and the camera. No camera could ever capture people with animal heads. 

So, what is the story behind the animal heads’ art piece?

Okello's art gallery that doubles as his sitting room
Okello’s art gallery that doubles as his sitting room

Okello says ordinarily, during the day, the actions of many people is something close to purity, which would be represented by white color. However, after nightfall, the same people assume different behavior, which is why each of the people in the art piece is painted wearing a colorful outfit. And because some people partake of intoxicants at night, they become less able to control what they do or say. To Okello, such people then begin to behave like animals. And that is the reason he put animal heads on some of the people. 

Currently a final-year student of Bachelor of Industrial Fine Art at Uganda Christian University (UCU), Okello says his dream is to offer a unique service to his clients once he fully joins the world of work. He says he would like to share with his client the passion, the peace and the fulfillment he gets while engrossed in his work. His dream is to offer a service where clients pay him to guide them through the process of drawing, so that they can recreate the same image he would have drawn for them. This way, he argues, clients can also experience the joy and the satisfaction that comes with drawing.

To refine his craft, Okello usually tries out painting using different styles, materials at his disposal and techniques. His love for painting and work with ceramics has endeared Okello to the community at UCU and beyond. 

Okello painting an art piece
Okello painting an art piece

In March last year, Okello participated in an international visual art competition for tertiary institution students from Uganda and the Nigerian community in Uganda and Nigeria.

A cross-cultural competition was held with the theme “My Impression of Nigeria, My Impression of Uganda.” Ugandan students focused on “My Impression of Nigeria.” while Nigerian participants produced artwork based on the theme, “My Impression of Uganda.”

In the competition, Okello was 22nd out of over 300 competitors from Uganda and received a certificate and drawing materials as a reward.

Currently, Okello devotes his Saturdays to teaching children how to draw and paint.

“It’s these children that I hope to employ in my art gallery in the future,” Okello said. “I want to set up the biggest art gallery in Uganda.” 

From the sale of his art pieces, Okello uses half of the proceeds to support his single mother who brews alcohol for a living. He lost his father in 2007.

Amidst the challenges of struggling to contend with a life with a peasant mother unable to afford his tuition fees, Okello was on the verge of giving up on education at a young age. However, the turning point came when Watoto, an organization that brings hope and healing to vulnerable women and children in Uganda and South Sudan, offered Okello support for his education. He also was given support for basic needs of life. 

Okello says art allows him to tell a “complete” story.
Okello says art allows him to tell a “complete” story.

“Watoto became my new family,” he said. “It was there that I found a sense of belonging and discovered my passion for art.”

Initially, Okello did not take art as a serious discipline. In fact, in A’level, his mind was on pursuing physics as a subject, even though he struggled to comprehend the subject matter. Upon discussing his academic struggles with his mentor, Marvin Ayebare, Okello was advised to drop physics and replace it with art. Okello hesitated, but he eventually gave in. 

As he stepped into the art class, Okello was amazed by the stunning artwork displayed on the walls. He felt unsure of his own abilities and wondered if he could ever create anything as beautiful. After years of sitting in the art class, Okello’s abilities started to match those of the artists whose works were pinned on the wall at the time he joined the class. For instance, some of his art pieces which were his final year project in A’level fetched him money. His first payment for one of the pieces was sh200,000 (about $52). When he received this payment, Okello says he resolved not to drop art. As such, making a decision for his university course became easy.

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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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Precious Abangira Nimmusiima says during homeschooling, a morning devotional prayer was always part of the program before the learning began.

UCU student narrates journey from homeschool to formal education

Faculty of Engineering, Design & Technology, News, Students


Precious Abangira Nimmusiima says during homeschooling, a morning devotional prayer was always part of the program before the learning began.
Precious Abangira Nimmusiima says during homeschooling, a morning devotional prayer was always part of the program before the learning began.

By Pauline Luba
For 12 years, Precious Abangira Nimusiima didn’t know what it meant to sit inside a classroom in a formal school setting. From Primary Three until she completed secondary school, Abangira was studying from home under the tutorship of her parents. She has now joined Uganda Christian University (UCU) to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.

“I liked the flexibility which came with the homeschooling program.” Abangira, a daughter of missionary parents, said. “If I had to miss for a few days because of trips, it was okay since I didn’t miss school or have the class leave me behind.”

Each morning, Abangira and her brother woke up between 6 and 7 a.m. to do house chores, after which they prepared for class. They would dress up in uniforms and proceed to the section of their home dedicated for classes. The section was equipped with a chalkboard and other essentials necessary in a classroom. 

According to the 21-year-old, a morning devotional prayer was always part of the program before the learning began. She said either of the parents would supervise their learning, depending on who was free that day. The curriculum is a learner-centered discovery method of learning.

Part of what Abangira learned included Bible studies, mathematics, English and grammar, science and history for their primary education and subjects such as geography, government, Literature and Economics once they joined secondary school. While the classes did not include extra curricular activities, Abangira often participated in sports and music. In the case of the Christian Liberty Academy homeschooling system, which Abangira was using, the parents of the children supervise them on a day-to-day basis, and then grade their work. The final grading and certification is done at the school campus in the USA.

Abangira was also part of a group for homeschooled children that often met once a week to socialize with other children, especially those in the same program. 

Homeschooling has not been a common practice in Uganda. However, it gained popularity during the 2020-2021 lockdown of schools in Uganda, at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.  

In 2011, before many Ugandans got exposed to this form of education, parents of Abangira decided to homeschool their children as a result of their exposure to the system, which to them resonated with the family values they espouse. Francis and Allen Mutatiina, who serve with LIFE Ministry Uganda/, often travel to spread the word of God. Abangira says her parents would travel both within and beyond Uganda. 

Kenya and Rwanda are some of the countries the Mutatiinas traveled to as a family. As such, the couple, now married for 23 years, would easily supervise their children’s education everywhere they went.

And the Mutatiinas knew that their homeschooling model was biblical. In addition to increased  time parents spent with their children in their formative years, Abangira’s parents also often found justification for homeschooling in Proverbs 22:6: “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”

Abangira now says some of the practices they often followed at home have remained ingrained in her way of life. She remembers the family always “sitting together, reading and studying the Bible” as part of the homeschool curriculum. This habit is still very much alive in the family, and in the life of Abangira.

Having accessed, used and taught herself computer-related information from the age of 10, Abangira now hopes to further that knowledge by acquiring a professional qualification as an Artificial Intelligence expert. 

Shockingly, during her formative years, a profession in computer technology was not anywhere among her priorities. She desired a course in human medicine. However, a few years ago, one of Abangira’s friends was diagnosed with cancer. As part of the treatment, the patient’s leg had to be amputated. Abangira says witnessing her friend struggle to buy prosthetics for his leg made her rethink the course to pursue at university. 

She now hopes that with added computer knowledge, she will be able to contribute to the development of more affordable robotics, especially for people living with disabilities. 

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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 UCU Cyber Security Chapter

UCU students advised to safeguard personal information online

Faculty of Engineering, Design & Technology, News, Science and Technology, Students


The UCU Cyber Security Chapter
The UCU Cyber Security Chapter

By Kefa Senoga
It is not uncommon for people to post on the Internet, informing their followers on social media about an impending trip, and where they will be going. However, such actions, according to an online safety expert, could jeopardize one’s security.

Baker Birikujja, the Manager for Compliance and Investigations at the Ugandan Government’s Personal Data Protection Office (PDPO), said when people use social media to share their locations and upload photos of their travels on a regular basis, it makes it easy for people with bad intentions to harm them.

Baker Birikujja, Manager for Compliance and Investigations at the Ugandan Government’s Personal Data Protection Office, addressed students during the sensitization talk.
Baker Birikujja, Manager for Compliance and Investigations at the Ugandan Government’s Personal Data Protection Office, addressed students during the sensitization talk.

Making a case for data privacy and security at Uganda Christian University (UCU), Birikujja urged the students to pay more attention about the kind of information they share on the internet and with whom they share what information.

“Only share information with people you trust, anything you upload on the internet can be stored and used against you,” Birikujja told students during an address on January 24. The event was organized by the Computing Sciences and Engineering Students’ Association in the UCU Faculty of Engineering, Design and Technology.  

“You may not have something to hide, but there are people who value your data and they could use it for not-good intentions,” Birikujja counseled.

His call came as part of activities to preach the importance of personal information, as the world marked the International Data Privacy Week, January 21 to 26. The International Data Privacy Day is celebrated every January 28.

Birikujja, a lawyer, also referred to the risk associated with downloading some mobile applications (apps). He said some apps collect sensitive information about the phones on which they have been installed, as well as the digital profiles of the users. 

In a study conducted from 2018 to 2020, Privacy International, a global agency that works to promote the human right to privacy, reported it was discovered that some menstruation-related applications were sharing certain sensitive information with companies such as Facebook, without user knowledge.

UCU students attending the data privacy awareness campaign at Ankrah Hill on the main campus
UCU students attending the data privacy awareness campaign at Ankrah Hill on the main campus

“Out of the 36 apps we tested, we found that 61% automatically transfer data to Facebook the moment a user opens the app. This happens whether the user has a Facebook account or not, and whether they are logged into Facebook or not,” Privacy International wrote on their site.  

It added: “We also found that some of those apps routinely send Facebook incredibly detailed and sometimes sensitive personal data. Again, it didn’t matter if people were logged out of Facebook or didn’t have an account.”

However, in a response, Facebook said: “Developers can receive analytics that allow them to understand what the audience of their app enjoys and improve their apps over time. Developers may also use Facebook services to monetise their apps through Facebook Audience Network.” 

Ddumba Timothy, the interim chairperson of the UCU Cyber Security Chapter, said they intend to organize more awareness campaigns to teach people how to keep their data private. Ddumba said they distributed fliers with information on data privacy, such as teaching readers how to safeguard their passwords, for instance, by changing them frequently. 

In 2019, Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni assented to the Data Protection and Privacy Bill, making it law. The Data Protection and Privacy Act, 2019 protects the privacy of an individual and personal data by regulating the collection and processing of personal information. The Act also provides for the rights of the persons whose data is collected and the obligations of data collectors, data processors and data controllers as well as regulates the use or disclosure of personal information and for related matters.

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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 DALILA project coordinators share their experiences. Left to right: Dr. Miria Agunyo, Dorcas Magoba, Sempungu Godfrey, Rodgers Tayebwa, and Pascal Mulosi.

Green economy project leaves mark in four East Africa universities

Faculty of Engineering, Design & Technology, News, Students, UCU Alumni


UCU DALILA project coordinators share their experiences. Left to right: Dr. Miria Agunyo, Dorcas Magoba, Sempungu Godfrey, Rodgers Tayebwa, and Pascal Mulosi.
UCU DALILA project coordinators share their experiences. Left to right: Dr. Miria Agunyo, Dorcas Magoba, Sempungu Godfrey, Rodgers Tayebwa, and Pascal Mulosi.

By Kefa Senoga
As a project established to foster a green economy in Africa closes at four universities in East Africa, the institutions are counting the benefits they have accrued from the multi-institutional venture that has been running for three years. 

The DALILA project, a collaborative venture, sought to increase awareness about clean energy, climate change, the green economy, and global emission targets. To achieve this goal, the project, courtesy of a 99,993,700 Euros ($117.8 million American) grant, was supposed to lead to the creation of new academic curricula on sustainable energies and green economy in Africa, as well as the installation of green laboratories at Uganda Christian University (UCU), Uganda Martyrs University, and two Tanzanian institutions — the University of Dodoma and the State University of Zanzibar. The Education, Audio-Visual and Culture Executive Agency of the European Union provided the grant for the project.

UCU Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), David Mugawe, at the closure of the DALILA conference in December.
UCU Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), David Mugawe, at the closure of the DALILA conference in December.

The Swahili origin of DALILA means delicate and gentle. Since 2020 and connected to UCU, it refers to the Development of Academic Curricula on Sustainable Energies and Green Economy in Africa. It’s a capacity-building project funded by the Education, Audio-Visual and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA) of the European Union­.

The courses were rolled out at the four universities, as were the green laboratories. For instance, Uganda Martyrs University developed and implemented the undergraduate course on the green economy in Uganda, while UCU created the curriculum for a related post-graduate diploma course. 

When Uganda’s supervisory body for curricula in higher institutions of learning, the National Council for Higher Education, gave the nod for the rollout of the course at UCU, the first cohort was admitted in 2022. That group was among the 986 students who graduated at UCU’s October 13, 2023, graduation, according to UCU Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, the Rev. Assoc. Prof. John Kitayimbwa. The nine students received the Post-Graduate Diploma in Sustainable Business and Renewable Energy from UCU.

Pioneer graduates share their internship experiences in Europe and Africa at the closure of the DALILA conference in December.
Pioneer graduates share their internship experiences in Europe and Africa at the closure of the DALILA conference in December.

At a seminar held in December 2023 to mark the closure of the project at UCU, the university’s Director of Academic Affairs, Vincent Kisenyi, underscored the project’s unique approach, emphasising that the integration of classroom learning with hands-on, practical experiences enables the learners to participate in renewable energy businesses while simultaneously contributing to environmental conservation.

One of the main objectives of the project was “transferring both theoretical and practical skills, identifying and bringing together stakeholders, creating links and synergies between companies and those who will be the professionals of tomorrow, and preparing them to be the driving force of positive change.”

The green laboratories established at each of the four project-implementing universities in East Africa were equipped to enable the students to achieve skills in converting sunlight into electric energy using photovoltaic panels. At the State University of Zanzibar, the green laboratory was equipped with solar simulators, lab computers, sputtering units, photovoltaic panels, DC voltmeters, and DC ammeters, among others.

Partners outside Africa in the European Union three-year funded project through the Erasmus+ Programme were Sapienza University of Rome in Italy, the University of Cadiz in Spain, and professional agencies, such as Sahara Ventures in Tanzania, Asud in Italy, and a renewable energy organisation called INOMA Renovables in Spain.  

The Director of Research, Partnerships, and Innovation at UCU, Assoc. Prof. Elizabeth Balyejusa Kizito, said the project has taught them how to respond to climate-related issues by educating them on how to improve the world and how to take advantage of business opportunities that arise from the different life challenges.

During a seminar to close the project at UCU, Eng. Simon Sekitoleko, the Assistant Commissioner for Renewable Energy in Uganda’s energy ministry, said: “As the nation embraces cleaner energy sources, UCU’s role in offering a postgraduate diploma in sustainable business and renewable energy is recognised as a crucial step in building capacity and turning graduates into job creators.” 

David Mugawe, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Finance and Administration, said that the project’s combined focus on business and renewable energy not only gave participants real-world skills but also sparked a collective response to urgent climate issues. 

Sharon Longora, Agatha Ankunda, and Ronald Mayanja, who were part of the pioneer class of the PostGraduate Diploma in Sustainable Business and Renewable Energy at UCU early last year, travelled to Spain and Italy for a resume-building internship that included visiting solar and hydropower plants, doing hands-on experiments, and getting exposed to sustainable waste management research.

During an interview with Uganda Partners last year, Amos Mangeni, who was also part of the UCU team that travelled to Europe, said: “I visited a 100kw solar PV grid connected plant at the University of Cadiz faculty of business in Spain. This PV plant supplies energy to the faculty, and the surplus is connected to the grid for sale, especially during the day.” 

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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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Immaculate Auma

UCU students share thoughts on completing exams

Faculty of Engineering, Design & Technology, News, Students, UCU School of Journalism, Media and Communication, UCU School of Law


The exam season in any school is usually a tense period, with all students doing last-minute checks on their notes to ensure they have grasped everything they consider important to enable them pass. Pauline Luba talked to some students at the end of exams just before Uganda Christian University closed for the Christmas holidays. Below was what they said.

Birungi Phillipah, Bachelors of Law, third year
All my exams were difficult, especially the closed-book ones. (In law, there are two types of exams – one where the student is allowed to use their books, otherwise called open-book exams. The other is closed-book, where they are not permitted to have their books in the exam room.). To make matters worse, the papers were one after another, with limited rest days among them. The advantage of that was that it enabled us to complete early, so as to be able to prepare for Christmas. 

Isaac Elogu

Isaac Elogu, Bachelor of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering, third year.
It rained most of the mornings. That meant that I had to wake up quite early to make my way to the university before the rain started. Waking up so early, for instance at 6 a.m., was a challenge to me. However, all those challenges are forgotten when one completes the exams. 

Nsaba Mellissa Kamikaze

Nsaba Mellissa Kamikaze, Bachelors of Law, third year.
Sitting exams symbolize the end of a chapter. It shows that the semester is coming to an end. What I dislike about the exam period is the tension and the fact that we get less sleep, therefore we cannot get enough rest. If there was one thing I could change, it is developing compassion towards people who have not completed paying their tuition.

Kyaligonza Gary Timothy

Kyaligonza Gary Timothy, Bachelor of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering, third-year.
I don’t like the stress and the panic around the exam season. But, somehow, with time, we learn to take control of the situation. My most memorable moment during this semester that we’re ending was the engineering gala. I really enjoyed it.

Masolo Adrian

Masolo Adrian, Bachelors of Law, second year.
I like the increase in the level of reading during the examination time because it prepares me for the career. Truth is if it was not for exams, there is a lot of information I would not get to know. However, I request that two weeks to the start of the exams, all lectures should stop, so we have adequate time to prepare for the papers. I dislike the unnecessary pressure.

Mirungi Marvin

Mirungi Marvin, Bachelors of Law, second year.
I don’t like it when the invigilator puts pressure on you towards the end of the paper. I have anxiety disorder because I am a slow writer, so maybe the invigilator should only tell us when it’s time up, at the end of the paper, not issue constant reminders. And, are exams really a gauge of the extent of our knowledge? I would prefer an evaluation of the learners after every topic taught.

Immaculate Auma

Auma Immaculate, Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication, third year
I am excited that I have completed my examinations and are heading home for the holidays. If there was one thing I could change about the exams, it is to leave the weekends free, so that at least the students can rest on Saturdays during the exam period. 

Talemwa Deborah

Talemwa Deborah, Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication, third year.
I like the exam period because I get the chance to see everyone on campus. However, I dislike the fact that the library gets crowded and becomes noisy because everyone is reading and preparing for their papers. The underside of the exam season is the WiFi gets slow, possibly because the traffic increases during that time. 

Administrative view
Kisaakye Joshua, Assistant Registrar in charge of Exams, Academic Affairs Directorate.
We received reports of students going into the examination rooms with bags and phones and leaving them outside the rooms. We urge all students to follow the rules and leave their property in hostels during examinations. 

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