By Kefa Senoga Were it not for charity, Waiswa Moses might not have made it to university studies. His twin sister, Namukose Babirye, temporarily put a halt to education after sitting her Senior Four exams because their single mother, Namugabu Jaliat, a market vendor, could not afford the school fees.
Many familiar with Waiswa’s background did not approve of his desire to contest for the highest office of student leadership at the Uganda Christian University (UCU) Kampala Campus. And their disapproval is not because they begrudged him the position of Guild President of the institution. They knew fully well the financial requirements to campaign. Even Waiswa knew he did not have the financial muscle to pull off a successful campaign.
But somehow, his mother, friends and students helped him to pool resources for his triumphant campaign. In December 2023, the third-year student of Bachelor of Laws was sworn in as the campus’ next Guild President, after he defeated his challenger, Molly Kebirungi.
The 22-year-old takes over power from Zedekkia Ssekyonda, a student in the School of Medicine who was the first medical student to lead the UCU Kampala guild presidency.
Waiswa and Mr. David Mugawe, the UCU Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration
In Ugandan politics, it is rare for people to fully fund one’s political campaigns of someone running for an electoral office. In most cases, it is the contestant who bears all the financial needs of running the campaigns for an electoral office, including facilitating the campaign agents.
Waiswa said in addition to providing the money, his friends also provided the vehicles he used for his campaigns. The money is usually used for fueling the cars, printing campaign fliers and posters and hiring a public address system and music to attract students to the campaign rallies.
In appreciation for the help he got from students and friends, Waiswa has aptly christened his leadership as the People’s Government. In his manifesto, Waiswa promised to “improve the academics, accountability, advocacy and level of sociability at the campus.”
Waiswa’s education has largely been courtesy of bursaries. Even currently, his tuition needs are being met by charity.
Waiswa joined Compassion International Uganda, a non-governmental organization, for leadership training, after completing his Senior Six. At the organization, Waiswa is a participant in the Leadership Development Initiative, a program that nurtures outstanding students into the leaders of tomorrow. The program empowers youth to become devoted disciples of Christ, unlocking their inherent potential and positively impacting their communities.
When Compassion International Uganda learned of the success of Waiswa in the elections, they congratulated him: “Through the Leadership Development Initiative, we focus on key outcomes such as growth in Christ, wellbeing, youth agency and self-sufficiency. We’re proud to see Hon. Waiswa Moses embodies these principles and we’re confident he will continue to make a meaningful difference in his role as guild President.”
Among the people watching keenly for Waiswa to complete his law degree are some of his five siblings, who are expecting that he will offer financial relief to them. His twin sister, Nakato, who hopes to become a nurse, says is soon joining a nursing and midwifery school to realize her dream.
Besides academics, Waiswa is also an enthusiastic scout. In 2018, he represented his school, Jinja Senior School located in eastern Uganda, at a scouts camp at the famous Ransburg Scout Reservationon the banks of Lake Monroe in Indiana, USA. At Jinja Secondary School, Waiswa was a student leader — the Head Boy from 2017 to 2018 and Head Prefect from 2019 to 2020.
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.
UCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi alongside Tom Deans, the Director of the University Writing Center at the University of Connecticut. As a visiting Fulbright scholar at UCU in 2021, Deans helped start UCU’s Writing Centre in the Department of Literature and Languages.
By Irene Best Nyapendi and Jimmy Siyasa Uganda Christian University (UCU) Vice Chancellor Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi’s recent visit to the United States focused on partnerships, strengthening ties with prominent academic and other institutions, and exploring collaborative opportunities. During the same period of the trip (November 29 to December 9, 2023), Prof. Mushengyezi attended the African Studies Association Conference in San Francisco, Calif., among other high-level interactions.
Bethel University Prof. Mushengyezi visited Bethel University in St, Paul, Minnesota, where he met President Ross Allen, professor of nursing emerita Karen Drake and Dr. Dave Muhovic, who helped to start and elevate UCU’s nursing program. The alumni of the program are now top leaders in the healthcare sector across Uganda.
UCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Aaron Mushegyenzi and Dr. Daniel Johnson, President of Wisconsin Lutheran College (WLC) in Milwaukee. The two discussed how UCU and WLC can work together on student and staff academic exchange and collaborative research.
Wisconsin Lutheran College Prof. Mushengyezi had productive meetings with Dr. Daniel Johnson, President of Wisconsin Lutheran College (WLC) in Milwaukee. The discussions centered on fostering cooperation in student and staff academic exchanges, as well as collaborative research. WLC, renowned for its strength in biological sciences, biotechnology and nursing, expressed a keen interest in partnering with UCU. The Vice Chancellor extended an invitation to President Johnson to visit UCU in future.
African Studies Association Conference From November 30 to December 2, the Vice Chancellor attended the African Studies Association (ASA) conference in San Francisco, California, where he presented a paper titled: Re-imagining the university’s pedagogical mission in the pandemic era. Prof. Mushengyezi showcased UCU’s digital innovations that have helped the university to successfully adapt to challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
UCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi (centre) and his wife, Patience (right), with Bishop Andrew Williams (second-left) and his wife, Elena, when the Vice Chancellor visited the Anglican Diocese of New England in Boston, Massachusetts.
Anglican Diocese of New England At the invitation of Rt. Rev. Andrew Williams, the Vice Chancellor visited the Anglican Diocese of New England (ADNE) in Boston, Massachusetts. The bishop committed to hosting theology scholars and graduate students in ADNE to foster cross-cultural ministry formation between UCU’s Bishop Tucker School of Divinity and Theology (BTSDT) and the Diocese. A short-term ministry exchange programme is planned for 2024, where the Dean of BTSDT and a theology graduate student will visit the Diocese.
University of Connecticut Reunion The Vice Chancellor also visited his alma mater, the University of Connecticut (UConn), where he obtained his doctorate in 2007. The Associate Dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS), Prof. Kate Kapshaw-Smith, and Prof. Tom Deans hosted Mushengyezi along with the Head of the English Department, Prof. Claire Costley King’oo. As a visiting Fulbright scholar at UCU in 2021, Deans helped to start UCU’s Writing Centre in the Department of Literature and Languages. The English Department and the Writing Centre at UConn are willing to send staff on short visits to support and mentor the Writing Centre and writing programmes at UCU. The Associate Dean and Department Head also encouraged UCU early-career staff to apply to UConn for graduate studies.
The UConn team congratulated their former student and now Vice Chancellor on his immense contribution to scholarship and to higher education leadership in Africa. The visits marked another milestone in UCU’s commitment to global academic collaboration and excellence. The institution is optimistic about the fruitful outcomes of the partnerships.
++++
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.
David Mugawe (second-left), UCU Deputy Vice Chancellor for finance and administration, celebrates with the UCU sports team that was first runner-up in the Association of Uganda University Sports competition. The team scooped gold in women’s soccer; men’s and women’s volleyball (2); women’s and men’s basketball (2); and men’s tennis – six gold medals overall.
By Irene Best Nyapendi In only two months, Uganda Christian University (UCU) organized the country’s premier university sports competition and came in second best.
UCU was the best in the women’s category among the 21 competing universities. UCU scooped gold in women’s soccer; men’s and women’s volleyball (2); women’s and men’s basketball (2) and men’s tennis – six gold medals overall. UCU bagged silver in athletics (two for men and women), table tennis and netball. Team UCU got bronze in women’s swimming and men’s rugby 7s. The other games at the competition were badminton, chess, darts, handball, karate, pool table, scrabble, table tennis and woodball.
Ndejje University was the first and Makerere University was third in the 19th edition of the Association of Uganda University Sports (AUUS) at UCU’s main campus in Mukono Dec.16-21, 2023.
UCU stepped up to host the games in a record two-month timeframe — a feat usually undertaken in a span of 18 months. The event, which was previously scheduled to be held at Makerere University, landed at UCU’s doorstep on short notice, and the university embraced the challenge with open arms.
Assoc. Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, the Vice Chancellor of UCU and the host of the event, played a pivotal role in the success of the games. He expressed UCU’s readiness to face challenges and their eagerness to host the next AUUS games.
(Left-right) David Mugawe, UCU Deputy Vice Chancellor for finance and administration, and Assoc. Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, the Vice Chancellor, display the first runner-up trophy as Pamela Tumwebaze, the director of students’ affairs, looks on.
“As a sports powerhouse, UCU is honored to partner with AUUS and other sponsors to ensure successful inter-university games in 2023,” Mushengyezi said. “At UCU, we don’t fear challenges; we take the bull by the horns. It was right and fitting to celebrate what unites us and that is sports.”
UCU previously hosted the games in 2007 and 2013. In 2014, it hosted the Eastern Africa Inter-University Games, which align the region’s universities in a sporting competition.
Mushengyezi congratulated all universities that participated and expressed gratitude to AUUS for injecting funds in UCU, contributing to the refurbishment of the sports facilities.
Peninah Kabenge, the AUUS president, thanked UCU for being gracious hosts and commended the unity displayed throughout the event. She emphasized the historical significance of the games and encouraged athletes to recognize that their journey doesn’t end at the university games. She said the skills honed will forever be etched in the history of the AUUS Games.
Prof. Lawrence Muganga, the Vice Chancellor of Victoria University, lauded UCU for hosting the games and putting up an exceptional show. “I will not stop thanking UCU because it has done a mighty job. In two months, they have managed to put together a world-class event,” he said.
Recap The UCU Lady Doves (UCU female volleyball players) triumphed throughout the tournament, winning all their games. In the volleyball finals, the UCU Lady Doves secured a victory against Kampala University. Sandra Ikiring, the Lady Doves captain, who was participating in the AUUS games for the first time, was elated.
“I am so happy. The team we played against (in the finals) was good, but we were better,” Ikiring said. “We focused on our reception and defense, which helped us win, and our services were so good, which gave the opponent a challenge.”
In men’s basketball, UCU Canons towered above Ndejje University with a massive victory of 109:78. In women’s basketball, UCU Lady Canons trounced Makerere University Business School 70:45.
UCU Canons’ coach, Emmanuel Kiguyi, credited the basketball victory to the teams’ hard work and exceptional shooting skills.
“We played very well. We defended well and the boys really shot the ball well,” Kiguyi said. In the netball finals, UCU lost a closely contested match against Victoria University by just one point (final score was 52:51).
Canons player, Peter Sifuma, said the team’s “goal was to clinch gold”. He expressed gratitude to the university which offers the sportsmen scholarships to pursue their academics as they represented the institution in the sports arena.
Tennis gold medalist Trevor Solomon Kazibwe, a first-year student and first-time participant in the games, was thrilled to win a medal and trophy for the university.
Sharifu Olipa, UCU athletics captain and 100m gold medalist, was full of good cheer at UCU’s achievement.
“I am proud of my athletics team. They performed well and that’s how we managed to get the first runners-up place,” he said.
The AUUS games have a history dating back to 1992, when AUUS was formed. Originally known as the National Sports Federation of Uganda (NUSFU), it was founded by four higher institutions of learning — Makerere, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Institute of Teacher Education, Kyambogo University and Islamic University in Uganda.
This year’s edition marked 30 years of sports excellence.
++++
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.
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, 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, 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, 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, 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, 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.
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, 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.
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.
Guests and staff members join Vice Chancellor Aaron Mushengyezi to cut the Christmas cake.
By Pauline Luba The Uganda Christian University (UCU) end-of-year Christmas party for staff and their children included music, cake and reminders of spirituality and accomplishments. Organized by the Department of Human Resources, it was held December 15, 2023.
Some of the members of the choir named Team Royals singing during the party. Right (wearing spectacles) is Monica Chibita, the Dean of the School of Journalism, Media and Communication.
UCU Chaplain, the Rev. Paul Wasswa Ssembiro, thanked God for the gift of the Christmas season, where he said God demonstrated his love for mankind. He centered this message on John 3:16: “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.”Ssembiro emphasized that Christmas was not just about feasting, but also giving to those in need.
Several staff, many of them wearing traditional African wear, sang Christmas hymns on stage.
The Director Academic Affairs, Vincent Kisenyi, commended the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, for “keeping the UCU family together throughout the year.”
Staff member Josephine Namyalo Mawerere receives a plaque in recognition of 10 years of service to the university
Mushengyezi thanked the staff for the “diligent work” and offered prayers for those who had fallen sick, lost loved ones or were involved in accidents. He also challenged the staff to make assessments of how far they had achieved their targets as a department. He mentioned some of the year’s achievements such as landscaping of greenery on the main campus, cleaning, remodeling of buildings and roads, as well as the digitization of the campus operations.
Many staff members who had served at the university for 10 years were recognized and awarded plaques for their diligent work. Gift hampers were also given away during a quiz game on facts about UCU.
To crown the event, a beautiful Christmas cake was cut and served.
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.
Bibian Amito at her “get-to-know your workmates dinner” at MTN Uganda. A software developer at the leading telecom company, she was the best student in her class of UCU Bachelor of Science in Electronics and Communication Engineering and was head-hunted by MTN.
By Irene Best Nyapendi Bibian Amito is more than an average, upstart software engineer. The Uganda Christian University (UCU) alum recruited for Uganda’s leading telecom company, MTN, before her recent graduation with a Bachelor of Science degree in Electronics and Communication Engineering has had her fingers and mind in client verification, help for sickle cell victims and more.
Amito didn’t even have to apply for her job. She joined MTN in March 2023, as a graduate trainee on a three-month probationary period. Impressively, her commitment and hard work secured her a permanent position.
Bibian Amito, a software developer at MTN and teaching assistant at UCU. Amito is doing research aimed at developing a smart wearable device for real-time diagnosis of individuals with sickle cell disease.
Since joining the company, she has delved into smart architectural software systems and diverse development tools. Recently, she was part of a team that developed a user interface called Tin Verification that was used by MTN’s internal administrators to check for verification of MTN clients. Previously, there was no system, and developers would query the databases and share raw data with the administrators.
“I have witnessed the dynamic pace of technology, particularly the transition from 4G to 5G,” Amito said. “I have successfully developed mock applications, websites, and APIs.”
Currently, Amito is actively involved in a research project focused on enhancing the lives of individuals with sickle cell disease, a group of inherited red blood cell disorders. Sickle cells that block blood flow to organs deprive the affected organs of blood and oxygen that can damage nerves and organs, including kidneys, liver and spleen.
The project involves the development of a smart wearable device for real-time diagnosis, monitoring and health management.
The device aims to facilitate proper follow-up on the health status of individuals with sickle cell disease. The goal is to empower users with continuous monitoring capabilities, enabling them to take proactive measures to maintain their health and prevent crisis attacks. The smart wearable device will also serve as an educational tool, offering valuable insights on healthy living practices for individuals with sickle cell disease.
Through the project, Amito is committed to delivering a comprehensive, efficient, and reliable wearable device that contributes to the well-being of those affected by sickle cell disease.
“I have some dear relatives I have seen living with sickle cell, and they are my greatest motivation for the project,” Mito said.
She envisions a long, prolific career with the telecom. Her future goals include specializing in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning. She aspires to create innovative solutions tailored to her community’s needs, using technology as a tool for positive transformation. She also plans to engage in continuous study.
Leaving scholarship to join UCU
In the early stages of Amito’s academic journey, her aspirations were anchored in the pursuit of a career in surveying. Following the completion of high school, she secured a government scholarship to study surveying.
Her uncle and mentor advised her to study at UCU. He wanted her to study Civil and Environmental Engineering but Amito was offered the Electronics and Communication Engineering program — a field entirely unfamiliar to her.
This unforeseen development posed a challenging decision as she grappled with weighing the benefits of the government scholarship against the allure of private education in a new course.
Her mother encouraged to try out the new course, arguing that most people yearn for new things because “new” usually means better/improved.
“Who doesn’t like new things? Who doesn’t enjoy having a new piece of clothing or a new pair of shoes?” – her mother had asked, rhetorically.
“I lost the love for surveying after I started the new course,” Amito said of the UCU program she began in 2018.
Her four-year journey at UCU not only equipped her with a foundation in electronics and communication engineering, but also ignited her passion for the telecommunications industry. This passion was sparked by a combination of fascination with technological advancements and a profound recognition of the industry’s transformative impact on society.
“The rapid pace of innovation within the industry, from the development of cutting-edge communication technologies to the expansion of global connectivity, captivated my attention,” Amito said. “I found the prospect of being at the forefront of these advancements both exciting and inspiring.”
UCU not only provided her with a strong theoretical foundation, but also exposed her to hands-on projects, internships, and industry insights with experience to adapt quickly to new technologies and methodologies. These and her motivation have been a driving force in her journey from academia to her current role now as a software developer at MTN.
“The exposure to smart architectural software systems and various development tools at UCU has equipped me with the necessary skills to contribute effectively to projects in my current position,” Amito said. “I’ve been able to apply the principles learned in class to real-world scenarios, such as developing mock applications, websites, and APIs.”
Amito, who was the best in her class, also is a part-time Teaching Assistant at UCU in the Department of Computing and Technology.
++++
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.
Dismas Nuwaine attributes their success over the other universities to being calm and composed.
By Pauline Luba Francis Byaruhanga, Davis Asiimwe Mugisha, Nataline Judith Afoyorwoth and Dismas Nuwaine lost the finals of the inaugural Vision Group Ultimate University Quiz, but the students of Uganda Christian University (UCU) headed home with their heads high.
To them, a presence in the finals alone was more than they could have asked for. After all, a place in the finals already guaranteed each of them and their coach $138 (sh500,000) and a laptop. UCU lost to Mbarara University of Science (MUST) in the final battle of the university quiz that was televised on Friday, December 15.
Prossy Byaruhanga, the mother of Francis Byaruhanga
Each of the participating students of MUST and their coach received $263 (sh1m) and a laptop. Administrators of MUST got equipment worth $6,573 (sh25million) while those of UCU were awarded equipment worth $3,943 (sh15million) in the competition that has been airing on Vision Group TV every Friday and Sunday since October 27.
“From the time I started participating in the quiz, I have been reading newspapers more, in order to acquaint myself with current affairs. This is a new culture I have developed,” said Afoyorwoth. She noted that participating in the quiz has boosted her confidence levels.
For Byaruhanga, appearing in the press has been a dream come true. Whenever they participated in the quiz, in addition to appearing on TV, the names and photos of Byaruhanga and his colleagues also appeared in the New Vision newspaper. Nuwaine has been taking photos of the stories in the newspaper where he appeared and sharing them on his Whatsapp status, as well as on his X (formerly Twitter) page.
“Sharing photos of the articles was my way of thanking God for what He has done in my life,” Nuwaine said.
Byaruhanga (right) with his siblings — Daniel Manige and Maria Kansiime
To Afoyorwoth, the quiz has enhanced her research skills. Two weeks to the start of the quiz, the students engaged in intense research, to be ready to face the quiz mistress, Lydia Lakwonyero. When Afoyorwoth informed her father, Dr. Julius Adubango, about being selected to represent her university at the quiz, he walked with her throughout her journey of preparation for the contest.
“My father often called me to ask random questions, trying to gauge my level of preparedness. Shockingly, some of the things he asked me appeared in the quiz. For instance, the name of the current Deputy Governor of the Bank of Uganda, as well as the names of former governors,” Afoyorwoth said.
However, Davis Asiimwe Mugisha believes the two weeks of preparation would not enable one to gather all the knowledge they needed to answer the questions. He says at the quiz, he discovered that one ought to have been paying attention to history, as well as news and current affairs throughout their life.
A photo of one of the articles published in New Vision that Dismas Nuwaine posted on his Twitter handle after the finals qualification in the Ultimate University Challenge
“I took advantage of the information I learned from as early as Primary Three to answer the questions,” Asiimwe said.
How did UCU navigate past three universities to reach the finals?Asiimwe said that each time they prayed, they asked God to show them the fruits of putting all their trust in Him. “It is that belief in God,” he said, “that enabled us to overcome a tense quarterfinal contest against Soroti University.” That contest was televised on November 19.
To face off with Soroti, UCU had to knock out Kampala International University in the first round. In the semifinals, UCU defeated Victoria University to book a contest with MUST in the finals. Nuwaine attributes their success to being calm and composed.
“We respected all our opponents and took each game with the level of seriousness they deserved,” he explained, noting that of all the contests before the final, it was Soroti University that gave them a run for their money. They thus aptly named that contest the “final before the final.”
UCU beat Soroti by only one correct answer, scoring 240 points against 230 points. Each correct answer earned them 10 points. A total of 80 questions were asked for both teams in each episode of the quiz. The team says they watched lots of online university quizzes to get a feel of the kind of questions that are asked.
Nataline Judith Afoyorwoth said participating in the quiz has helped enhance her research skills.
Parents, friends add to the fanfare Speaking on the phone from Nakibizzi in Buikwe district, eastern Uganda, Prossy Byaruhanga, the mother of Francis Byaruhanga, could not hide her joy, saying her son had uplifted the status of her family. Prossy, a housewife, said whenever Byaruhanga appeared on TV during the debate and in the newspaper after the debate, people who know him would call her, to express their happiness.
“Francis has been a good debater; he is disciplined and respects people in the community. No wonder everyone is excited about his performance in the quiz,” said Prossy, a mother of four — Byaruhanga, Daniel Manige, Maria Kansime, and Edgar Atuheire. Prossy was unable to watch the quiz because she does not own a TV set.
Byaruhanga, a year-four student of Bachelor of Laws at UCU, said to continue inspiring his family members, he will use part of the $138 (sh500,000) that he has earned from the quiz to buy for his brother — Manige — a scientific calculator and an Oxford Learner’s Dictionary for Atuheire. Manige will be in Senior Six next year while Atuheire will be in Primary Seven.
Byaruhanga said his father, Damiano Byaruhanga, who, because of sickness, moves with the aid of crutches, will also receive a gift from him when he goes home for holidays soon.
At UCU, Byaruhanga has already started enjoying the fringe benefits of participating in the quiz. For instance, his friend, Charles Miti, who sells fruits, delivered fruits to his room at the university, thanking him for “participating in a competition that enables you to think.” Actions like these, Byaruhanga says, have helped to build his self-esteem.
The inaugural Vision Group quiz attracted a record 16 universities in Uganda. The media conglomerate partnered with the country’s central bank — Bank of Uganda — Net Studios Africa, Centenary Bank and Georgina to execute the quiz. According to Wanyama Wangah, the co-ordinator of the quiz at Vision Group, the questions were designed to encourage students to read widely and beyond their academic fields. The questions covered the areas of banking, economics, agriculture, current affairs, world geography, global history, science, sports, arts, commerce and world trade.
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.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, introduces Birungi Agira to the university community.
By Kefa Senoga The November 2023 battle for the position of Uganda Christian University (UCU) Guild President was too close to call. At the time the university’s election officials announced the results, the winner was holed up in her hostel room. Birungi Agira said she, too, was not sure who would emerge the eventual winner.
“On some days during the campaigns, we would be welcomed with cheers and on other days, the reception was cold — some people would clearly show us that they were not bothered,” Agira said.
However, when the results were announced on November 15, Agira had defeatedEmmanuel Aburaby just 133 votes to become UCU’s 26th guild president. She recieved 1,156 votes against Abura’s 1023. The third-year student of Bachelor of Laws was sworn in on November 21. She takes over the reins from Timothy Ddumba, a third-year student of Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, as she realizes a dream she has harbored since she joined UCU.
As soon as she joined the university, Agira said she went on a campaign to promote herself, by actively participating in university activities, including outreach programs organized by the university administration and student leaders.
Birungi Agira taking the oath as guild president
It is such enthusiasm that earned Agira leadership positions during her earlier years of study. At Mbarara Junior School, where Agira spent all her seven years of primary education, she was a student leader in charge of religious affairs. At Bweranyangi Girls School, a prominent girls-only school in western Uganda, where Agira spent all the six years of secondary education, she was also one of the student leaders.
While at UCU, as an enthusiast of debates, she engaged in moots within the law school. She also was an advocate for students’ rights. Agira said whenever there was something not right, she would approach the Dean of the School of Law, to represent the concerns of her fellow students.
All this she did to endear herself to both the staff and the students so that her name and face could be easily recognizable once it came to the time of campaigns.
Though she defeated Abura, Agira has immense respect for her competitor and she says she is willing to bring him on board so they work together to develop the university. “I have observed his qualities, and I believe that he possesses the characteristics of a good leader,” Agira said of Abura.
As guild president, a key part of her mission is to bridge the gap between the student leaders and the students. She believes that these two should work closely, which is why she campaigned under the slogan “inclusivity in action.”
Some of the key players in Agira’s journey to the position of guild president have been her family members who she says supported her throughout the campaigns.
Before the death of her mother, Anne Assimwe Kankiriho, early this year, Agira had informed her of the desire to contest for the top student leadership office. Agira said the death of her mother added her the extra motivation to win the elections so she could fulfill Assimwe’s wish for her daughter.
Her father, the Rev. Canon Kankiriho Robert, said when his daughter informed him of her desire, he pledged to provide the necessary support she would require.
“Whereas I encouraged her to participate in leadership, I challenged her to maintain her academic acumen in order to be a good leader,” said Kankiriho, the parish priest of Nyabuhama in the western Uganda district of Sheema. Kankiriho is also the humanitarian and resources officer in the Anglican diocese of West Ankole.
Three members of Agira’s family are alumni of UCU. Kankiriho obtained his master’s degree in public administration from UCU. Assimwe, who was also a teacher at Bweranyangi Girls School, earned her master’s degree in public health from UCU.
The family’s firstborn, Ashaba Alex, also received his bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance from UCU, in 2018. While at UCU, Ashaba was one of the student leaders. He later worked in the accounts department of the university, as well as with the Uganda Studies Program (USP) at UCU.
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.
On November 24, 2023, a Uganda Christian University (UCU) Main Campus student choir gave the community an early Christmas as they staged a carol production in the Nkoyoyo Hall. Decorated with Christmas decorations and lights, the hall was the setting for more than three hours of holiday music. In between solos, there was a passionate rendition of the famous birth of Jesus, featuring powerful song performances. Pauline Luba had a chat with some of the people who attended the concert.
Some backup singers
Rev. Canon. Paul Wasswa Ssembiro, UCU chaplain Putting together such a production is not easy, and what has been done is excellent. The Christmas message is about the coming of our savior, a gift to the world. A gift that is greater than all the perishable gifts of this world. Christmas announces God’s gracious intervention. God comes near to those who are starving. On Christmas, we get from God what we need most. The angelic voices from this choir have been beautiful.
The crowd cheers for the choir.
Duncan Tumuhamye, Parent This year’s Christmas production has been so wonderfully done. It has reminded me of all that the Lord has done for me. May the good Lord bless the choir members.
Janice Atai, Bachelor of Governance and International Relations, acted as ‘Mary Mother of Jesus’ and was the main singer It was very challenging to come up with this production. I was juggling two commitments. Taking up a major role and changing the roles in between scenes of the production was definitely not easy for me. I started practicing for this production just two weeks ago. I think such a production is important because it brings people together and makes them happy in celebration of Christ.
One singer during her performance
Kitandwe Kennedy, Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication This has been the first Christmas production I have attended here at UCU. I enjoyed the play and it reminded me of the beautiful Christmas songs we used to sing while we were young. I had been reading my books in the library when someone told me about the production. I left the library immediately to go to the Nkoyoyo Hall.
Peyton Burleigh, Global Health, Uganda
Two singers share the stage during performance of ‘Bethlehem’
Studies Program This has been a wonderful celebration to begin the Christmas season.
Atim Robinah, Bachelor of Governance and International Relations I was amazed by the angelic voices from the choir. Apart from that, I also got the opportunity to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ which, according to me, is a great and amazing experience.
Chaplain of UCU. the Rev. Can. Paul Wasswa Ssembiro, gives a speech.
Stanley Mukasa, UCU Tutor The production was awesome. I surely felt the joy of the new king, Jesus. It was such a powerful Christmas production.
Kwagala Dorcas, Bachelor of Governance and International Relations I’ve really enjoyed the experience and the choir’s blissful voices. I thank the UCU fraternity for organizing such interesting activities.
Participants, parents and staff cut cake at the end of the production.
Abbi Robinson, Global Health, Uganda Studies Program I have loved hearing the music and celebrating Christ as a community. This was my first time attending this here, and I think the culture should continue, definitely.
Ariel Parker, Bachelor of Nursing Sciences, Uganda Studies Program I liked listening to the melodious and joyful music and the drama about the birth of Jesus Christ.
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.
Nkurunungi Seth Niwabiine said he was honest with his classmates about his financial status. Therefore, many pooled resources to support his campaign for Barham Guild President.
By Pauline Luba The leadership journey that Nkurunungi Seth Niwabiine started in May 2023 was not for the fainthearted. His courage was resolute. With faith, he forged challenges.
The 24-year-old had just made public his longtime desire of leading Uganda Christian University’s (UCU) Bishop Barham University Campus (BBUC) as its guild president. That particular semester, Niwabiine says he had reported to school with sh10,000 (about $2.6) as money for upkeep. Many who knew Niwabiine’s financial status thought his ability to fund his campaign was wishful thinking.
Niwabiine’s campaign poster
“No matter where you come from or what your background is, be positive,” Niwabiine said during a late November interview with Uganda Partners. “My personal motto is ‘believe, begin, become’.” Indeed, he believed he could win. On November 11, 2023, he did. He became the university’s guild president.
But Niwabiine’s was no ordinary campaign. He was honest with his classmates about his financial status and, therefore, many of those who campaigned for him did not expect compensation.
“In my first meeting (to strategize about how to conduct the campaigns), only five students showed up and I was honest about having no money,” Niwabiine said. “I ended up receiving contributions and help from several students.”
As luck would have it, on voting day, Niwabiine said his name was the first on the paper ballot. Could that opportunity have worked to sway fence-sitting voters who could have opted for any candidate whose name was first on the ballot? Perhaps, but Niwabiine says he believes voters knowingly chose him because he was the best among the contestants.
To Niwabiine’s mother, Mary Aida Nkurunungi, her son’s victory was a family triumph. Nkurunungi said she informed almost every relative she could reach about the new pride of the family. She said she not only often talks to her son on phone, but also prays for his successful tenure as guild president.
There is no doubt his father, Eric Nkurunungi Muhoozi, would have been just as excited. However, the day Niwabiine reported to school to start his journey of university education was the same day Muhoozi complained of pain and was rushed to hospital. Tests at hospital revealed he had liver complications. Three months later, those complications claimed his life.
That tragedy catapulted Niwabiine, as the first born in a family of five children, to fill the leadership void that his father had left in the family. He would often engage in different money-generating activities, with the hope that they would supplement whatever his peasant mother got in her pursuit to put bread on the table. Tasks like brick laying and farming were common activities from which Niwabiine and his family earned a livelihood.
The manifesto of Niwabiine, a year-three student of Bachelor of Agricultural Science and Entrepreneurship, is built on accountability, security, advocacy and welfare of the students. He said he will strive to establish a cash fund, to support the tuition of needy but bright students, especially those from humble backgrounds.
Niwabiine attended Ishasha Primary School and Rushoraza Secondary School for O’level and and Kyamakanda Secondary School for A’level. All the three schools are found in western Uganda. In both primary and secondary school, Niwabiine was a student leader, including holding the position of head prefect.
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.
Samantha Ainembabazi receiving her award at the gala in late October
By Pauline Luba It is unusual for a medical student to show an interest in farming. Yet, that is what Samantha Ainembabazi, working towards the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery at the Uganda Christian University (UCU), did and more.
She diversified her knowledge and skill into an innovation that she thinks could be a game changer for Uganda’s small-scale farmers and received a cash prize for the idea. The 23-year-old, final-year student on the Kampala campus was given a sh10million (about $2,640) grant to help her refine her idea and actualize it.
Ainembabazi’s innovation, Frezo Nano Technologies, which she submitted to the Ayute Africa Challenge 2023, preserves fruits and vegetables by releasing a safe organic formulation extending shelf life by 30 days.
Ayute Africa Challenge Uganda identifies agricultural and innovative tech ideas with the potential to address the challenges of smallholder farmers in Uganda, such as strengthening food security and improving production, income, resilience and access to finance.
And the support goes beyond awarding the agri-tech innovators. A team of expert advisors supports the winners to actualize their ideas to impact the lives of smallholder farmers. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, more than 70% of people in Uganda work in agriculture, and the country has more than three-and-a-half million family farms.
This year’s Ayute Africa Challenge, organized by Heifer International, a not-for-profit organization that supports local farmers in Uganda, featured 189 participants. The contestants were taken through an incubator program to gain deeper insight into how to scale up their businesses, ensure sustainability, and attain financial management skills.
Ainembabazi believes the innovation that took her and her co-founder, Mugisha Arnold Gift, two years to develop will help reduce post-harvest losses among farmers. Frezo Nano Technologies inhibits the activity of phospholipase D, an enzyme responsible for the deterioration of membranes of fruits, giving them an extended shelf life.
Statistics indicate that poor practices in harvest and postharvest handling lead to a loss of 22% of the harvested produce and a further 17% loss of the output value.
“We hope to reach every small-scale farmer, and eventually every household to help in the preservation of fruits and vegetables,” said Ainembabazi, whose innovation was the second runner-up in this year’s challenge.
Simon Peter Okoci, who built an innovation that uses an automated temperature and light regulation system in brooders, was the overall winner. For this feat, he walked home with a cash prize of sh35million (about $9,230). The first runner-up, Willy Katumwa, who invented a fish feeding technology that automates feeding based on fish needs, received sh25 million (about $6,600).
The Heifer Uganda Country Director, William Matovu, said they aim to build a community of agri-tech innovators that can accelerate meaningful impact for smallholder farmers.
“Heifer Uganda believes that the future of Africa’s agriculture hinges on creating opportunities for young innovators to transform the agricultural landscape,” Matovu said at the awards gala held late October 2023.
Last year’s top winners of the challenge, according to Fred Bwino Kyakulaga, Uganda’s minister for agriculture, have already created jobs for 25 youths, with their innovations serving over 200 farmers in Uganda.
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.
Posed at the Uganda Studies Program (USP) and Uganda Christian University (UCU) display that was part of the North American Association of Christians in Social Work Convention in Pittsburgh, Pa., in November 2023 are (left to right) Dr. David Hodge (Arizona State University), Kasule Kibirige (UCU), Dr. Micah Hughes (Baltimore Urban Studies Program) and Lisa Tokpa (USP Director of Field Education).
By Patty Huston-Holm
Kasule Kibirige believes in Jesus.
A guy he met on November 15, 2023, believes in UFOs (Unidentified Foreign Objects) and Sasquatch, also known as “Big Foot.”
After a quick handshake, the man, donned in a baseball cap embroidered with the Sasquatch name, asserted that USA government data verifies the existence of alien life (i.e., UFOs) and many videos from average people authenticate that a large hairy creature is walking his big feet around North American forests. Kasule listened without prejudice during the five minutes that the man in the hat espoused his views that were new to Kasule and what some more familiar consider fictitious and as the sun was setting outside the Cedarville, Ohio, Sunset Inn and Suites.
That’s what social workers, especially those who are Christian, do.
“Social work has a value base similar to Christian faith,” said Kasule, head of undergraduate studies, School of Social Sciences, Uganda Christian University (UCU), since 2016. “Social work is a program of study that includes accepting others without judging them.”
The profession is much more, of course. The Webster dictionary defines social work as a field with “activities or methods concretely concerned with providing social services and especially with the investigation, treatment and material aid of the economically, physically, mentally or socially disadvantaged.”
The brief, unexpected encounter with the Sasquatch-UFO follower – who also might have shared his religious beliefs had he remained longer – provided an example of implementing social work skills outside the confines of a dictionary or textbook, according to Kasule, who learned of these topics for the first time in his three-week, November trip to the USA. It was his first visit to Ohio and second trip to the United States. While waiting to have dinner with faculty at Cedarville University, he shared other illustrations, including his early recognition of how listening and observing make a difference in the field of social work.
“Most students come to universities directly from high school,” Kasule said. “I didn’t.”
Without sufficient funds, or academic marks to
Kasule Kibirige with the Rt. Rev. Deon John, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri at St. John’s Episcopal Church, St. Louis, Mo.
garner a government scholarship grant, Kasule first enrolled in vocational training. Using his tertiary knowledge and skill, he was employed as a welder in a small-scale steel fabrication factory that made machines like the ones used in the agro-processing industry. He later saw social workers in action when working for a child-focused non-profit organization in Kampala, Uganda.
“Choosing social work was largely inspired by that life-changing opportunity of working with a non-governmental organization that helped disadvantaged, urban out-of-school children,” Kasule said.
From 2001 to 2007, Kasule received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from the University of Botswana in Africa. Since 2008, he’s been a social work faculty member at UCU and participated in numerous community engagements, both integrated in fieldwork supervision of students’ practicums and community service, researching to enhance teaching and leading social work curriculum at UCU. In addition to these roles, he has collaborated with Lisa Tokpa of UCU’s Uganda Studies Program (USP), a semester-long course of study for American university students. The goal in collaborating is to create mutual benefit among their two programs at the university, including research, co-teaching, social work supervisor trainings, and cross-cultural student groups.
“My major interest is to contribute to improving the quality of social work educational experiences for both students and faculty,” Kasule said. “I continuously seek to engage with colleagues who share this passion through collaborations – in international field education, co-teaching and learning, and applied research.”
The main objective of Kasule’s November visit to the United States was expanded collaboration. He spoke and listened during the North American Association of Christians in Social Work Convention 2023 in Pittsburgh, Pa.; engaged with educators and students at two USA universities that have been involved with the USP in the two decades of the program’s existence; and spoke with the Rt. Rev. Deon Johnson, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Missouri at St. John’s Episcopal Church, St. Louis, Mo. In the state of Pennsylvania, he visited Grove City College. In Ohio, he spent two days at Cedarville University. In Missouri, he met with social work faculty at St. Louis University.
Since 2004, students from more than 100 American Christian universities, as well as those from a smaller number of secular universities have participated in the UCU-USP four-month curriculum that is largely focused on social work. Most USP-sending universities are associated with the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities, which represents more than 180 higher education institutions.
“My key initiatives are local and international,” Kasule said. “Locally, UCU social work and USP social work emphasis is through cross-cultural learning groups. Internationally, there is the exchange with universities outside Uganda.”
Kasule Kibirige in Cedarville, Ohio
Kasule has seen first-hand the academic and cultural value for American students spending a semester of study at UCU, as well as a more recent collaboration that has UCU students studying at Hanze University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands. He would like to see more United States higher education opportunities for Ugandan students and faculty.
“Cross cultural conversations have infinite value,” said Kasule, who has two children, ages 4 and 7, with his wife, Grace, a pediatrician currently engaged in clinical research. “We have our own perceptions about Christianity and social problems in Uganda. You have yours.”
Besides its spiritual redemption and religious values for the majority of Ugandans, Christian virtues also are an important reference for promising hope; and a practical framework when integrated into curriculum.
While partnership benefits are readily acknowledged, money is a barrier for an equal exchange because Ugandans have fewer resources than Americans. But it’s an obstacle that can be overcome.
“There is the possibility of grants, but we don’t expect our partners to throw money at a problem,” Kasule said. “Rather, we seek mutually-beneficial collaboration.” He pointed to the internet with possibilities for co-teaching and co-research, especially since all UCU post-graduate programs are now online.
David Hodge, distinguished professor, School of Social Work, Arizona State University, is among USA social work partners who have come to UCU. In 2021, Dr. Hodge and Kasule co-published a paper addressing academic research inequalities between Sub-Saharan faculty and their counterparts in the West, and planned more related to how spirituality can be used in assessment until Covid drove Hodge home earlier than planned. As 2023 comes to a close, this later project is being revived.
“Even for non-believers, Christian principles and similar intervention strategies can be applied,” said Kasule, reflecting on some work he has embarked on with partners fighting against child sacrifice, in Uganda. According to census data, 82 percent of Ugandans are Christian. In the USA, 63 percent identify as believers in Jesus Christ.
Kasule sees Christian faith playing an integral part for worker efforts to rebuilding community resilience, prevention and mitigation of social struggles, such as domestic violence, mental illness and children not in school. Loneliness issues for people of all ages also is a current focus both in Uganda and the United States, he said.
Enabling university faculty and students to experience multiple cultures is key, according to Kasule. Opportunities for faculty to engage in more practice-academics (pra-academics) and collaborative projects would not only improve teaching and learning effectiveness but also will certainly improve service users’ overall outcomes.
“We need to engage agencies as partners, teachers and students as learners,” he said. “We learn so much from each other to help others.”
++++
To support Uganda Christian University programs, students, activities, and services, go towww.ugandapartners.org and click on the “donate” button, or contact UCU Partners Executive Director, Mark Bartels, at m.t.bartels@ugandapartners.org.
Rev. Assoc. Prof. Omona, shown attending a conference, says one of the most gratifying aspects of his academic journey is the friendship he has made while pursuing his studies and attending events.
By Kefa Senoga
The Rev. Assoc. Prof. Andrew David Omona has learned how he reacts to adversity is more important than the actual misfortune. His up-and-down life story depends on the value of strength and resilience. And these are skills he has mastered.
Take, for instance, the incident of 1996 when he tried to begin his theology career.
Born in 1970 in Adjumani district, northern Uganda, to the Rev. Andrew and Mary Olal, Omona completed his primary education at Biyaya Primary School before joining Obongi Secondary School in 1986, where he completed his O’level. In 1990, he joined Moyo Secondary School in northern Uganda, from where he completed his high school studies. Unlike many of his peers, he was not influenced by a mass recruitment of people into the Uganda Police Force. He decided to pursue a Diploma in Theology at the Bishop Tucker Theological College.
In 1996, Omona, the seventh of 10 children, enrolled for a Bachelor of Divinity course at what isnow the Bishop Tucker School of Divinity and Theology. At the time, the college was under Uganda’s Makerere University. It became part of Uganda Christian University (UCU) in 1997. For reasons unknown to Omona, a week into his course, the Makerere University Council canceled his admission and those of some of his colleagues.
“When that happened, the Dean of Studies of Bishop Tucker at the time, the Rt. Rev. Canon Dustan Bukenya (now a retired bishop), gave me a letter to take to Bugema University,” Omona said, noting that with the letter, he gained admission into Bugema.
He was, therefore, allowed to enroll for a dual program leading to the consecutive award of two bachelor’s degrees — Bachelor of Theology and Bachelor of Arts with Education. The two degrees were combined because the programs shared certain elements, a practice that was acceptable at that time.
As Omona’s graduation at Bugema drew nearer, he encountered another hurdle. He got a challenge with the practical element in his theology course. He explains that despite having fulfilled all the requirements for graduation, there was one challenging course unit remaining — a practical component where they intended to assign him to a Seventh Day Adventist church.
“Whereas the head of department had agreed to supervise me in the Anglican church, the university management made it difficult for that to happen,” Omona says, indicating that when they reached a stalemate on the matter, he opted to only graduate with a Bachelor of Arts with Education.
After completing the BA with Education, he secured an admission at UCU to pursue a Master of Arts in Theology in 1999 and graduated in 2002. In 2005, his interest switched from theology and education to international relations and diplomacy; he enrolled to pursue a Master of Arts in International Relations and Diplomacy at Nkumba University, graduating in 2007.
Soon after, a friend who was studying at the University of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania encouraged Omona to enroll for a PhD in International Relations and Diplomacy. However, he says the advisor he was assigned turned out to be too busy for him. On many occasions, according to Omona, he would travel from Uganda to Tanzania, only to find that his advisor had traveled out of the country. So, in 2008, upon a friend’s recommendation, he transferred to Kenyatta University in Kenya, to pursue the same PhD course. He graduated from the university in 2015.
Upon acquiring his doctorate in 2016, Omona applied for a promotion at UCU, where he has been teaching since 2001. He was granted that request. However, three years later, when he applied to graduate to the higher rank of Associate Professor, his wish was denied. He did not lose hope, though. In 2021, Omona re-applied for the promotion. The good news reached him in May this year, when he was promoted to the rank of Associate Professor of Ethics and International Relations.
He said one of the most gratifying aspects of his academic journey are the friendships he has made while pursuing his studies and attending conferences. He said that whenever he travels, he forms acquaintances with people with whom he frequently collaborates on research publications.
The Rev. Omona is married to Anne Cheroto, a priest and the Principal of Ndegeya Teacher Training College in Masaka district, central Uganda. The couple has three biological children — two boys and one girl. Their first born, a boy, is pursuing a Bachelor of Laws at UCU.
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.
Archbishop Emeritus Henry Luke Orombi (middle) is shown during a visit to UCU Arua Campus. Second-left is the Rev. Julius Izza Tabi.
By Kefa Senoga As a young boy, Julius Izza Tabi gave his parents the confidence that his career destination would be one in the field of sciences. As such, Tabi’s father — Izza Soyi Severino — encouraged his son to pursue a course in human medicine. Just imagine what went through the mind of Severino when his son told him he was not interested in becoming a doctor.
The Rev. Julius Izza Tabi during the UCU@25 celebrations in 2022
Tabi said he was feeling a different calling from God, one of pastoral ministry. At first, Severino thought the reason for his son’s change of heart was because he had not garnered the necessary grades to pursue a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery. As such, he encouraged his son to repeat Senior Six, and that he was ready to pay the tuition. Tabi had sat his Senior Six exams at Metu Senior Secondary School in Moyo district, northern Uganda.
However, Tabi, who is now the director of the Uganda Christian University Arua Campus, said his heart was elsewhere. Fortunately, the son did not have to convince his father to pay tuition for a course he didn’t think was right. When Tabi enrolled at Lake Victoria Christian Centre for a diploma in Christian ministries, he was on full bursary.
Anglican Archbishop in Uganda Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu launching the UCU Arua Campus Master plan during the celebrations to mark 20 years of the campus
At the end of the one-year course, Tabi not only returned home with his diploma, he also emerged as the best student in the cohort.
Upon graduating with a Diploma in Christian Ministry, Tabi continued with youth ministry activities in the church. It was during this time that he and Severino agreed that the former should return to school and get a second qualification.
Tabi is the sixth born in a family of nine children. His father, Severino, was a primary school headteacher and his mother, Asianzo Catherine, a housewife.
Tabi thus pursued a Diploma in Education at the National Teachers’ College, Muni, where he specialized in Chemistry and Biology. Upon qualification, Tabi was employed at Usindi Secondary School in Arua, northwestern Uganda.
Teaching in close proximity to the UCU Arua Campus led Tabi to become part of the UCU community. In 2011, he was admitted for a Bachelor of Divinity at UCU under the Ma’di-West Nile Diocese scholarship. That same year, Tabi married Oliver Driciru, with whom he has three children — two boys and one girl.
The newly built gate of the UCU Arua Campus
At his graduation in 2014, the Rev. Tabi’s grades earned him the accolade of second-best student. The best student at the graduation was Jonathan Tumwebaze, now also a staff member at UCU.
Tabi’s outstanding performance persuaded Joel Obetia, the Bishop of Madi-West Nile Diocese at the time, to post him to UCU Arua Campus as the Assistant Chaplain in October 2014. That officially marked the start of Tabi’s association with UCU as a member of staff.
The following year, he was given extra roles when he was appointed a tutorial assistant in the Department of Theology. He later pursued a Master of Philosophy in Religion, Society and Global Issues from the Norwegian School of Theology in Oslo. Upon Tabi’s return from Oslo, he was promoted to Assistant Lecturer. In 2018, he was appointed the institution’s Dean of Students.
Three years later, in September 2021, the Rev. Tabi was appointed the acting director of the campus, a position he was confirmed into after the campus went through the requisite process of hiring the position holder.
From left: Rev Julius Izza Tabi, Rev. Canon Prof. Stephen Noll (first Vice Chancellor of UCU) and Rev. Richard Mujuni during the GAFCON conference in April 2023 in Kigali Rwanda.
In an interview that Tabi granted Uganda Partners in August this year, he enumerated his areas of focus as infrastructural development, elevating the campus into a constituent college, a massive student recruitment strategy, beautification of the environment and infrastructure, implementation of the multi-billion masterplan project, development of an endowment project and a staff recruitment plan.
This year, the campus marked 20 years of being part of the UCU family and 64 years of being a training institute. Before the campus was made a theological college and part of UCU in 2003, it was offering diploma and certificate courses in theology and also training Lay Readers in the region.
The nature of Tabi’s job means he always has a full plate. However, he says his wife is the reason he has been able to fulfill the demands of his office because she has been “filling for him whenever needed, especially when it comes to family matters.”
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.
Mukhooli promised to hinge his leadership on bridging the communication gap between the students and the administrators.
By Pauline Luba Picture this: You are a top contender for a political office. On voting day, after casting your ballot, what do you do with the rest of the hours to ease the tension as you wait to know the results? Harry Mukhooli recently found himself in such a situation. Mukhooli, the new Guild President of Uganda Christian University (UCU) Mbale campus in eastern Uganda, said he isolated himself from people the entire day as he waited for the results.
Luckily for him, he emerged the victor, with 46% of the people who cast their votes preferring him as their new leader. At first, it was a battle against five candidates. However, along the way during the campaigns, two of those dropped out, leaving Mukhooli against three others — two male, one female — whom he beat to clinch the topmost office in the student leadership hierarchy.
So, how did the 22-year-old student of Bachelor of Education (English and Literature in English) use to draw people to him?
Mukhooli started campaigning in May. One issue that Mukhooli promised to hinge his term of office on was improving relations at the institution.
“I wanted to bridge the gap between the students and the university administration,” Mukhooli said, adding that he hopes to use his position as Guild President to “give others a platform” to voice their challenges at the university.
Among the needs that students have voiced include the desire for renovation of some of the buildings at the campus, as well as challenges in paying tuition on time. These, among others, are issues that Mukhooli hopes to bring to the discussion table, with the aim of making the stay of the students at the institution as comfortable as it can be.
On voting day in October 2023, Mukhooli spent considerable money transporting students to cast their ballots. He said many students struggle to fend for themselves, and, as such, they see it as a waste of resources to spend money on transport to go to the university to cast their votes and return home. It is this category of people that Mukhooli said he sought to reach out to, so they can exercise their democratic right to cast a ballot. Could this act have endeared the voters to him? Maybe.
Mukhooli takes office from 30-year-old Daniel Kunya, a student of Bachelor of Social Work and Social Administration who has held the office since November last year.
When the need for the funds for the campaign arrived, Mukhooli turned to proceeds from his poultry business. But that was not enough. Contributions came from his father — Namasake Peter Wandeka — whom Mukhooli considers one of his greatest inspirations, including during this run for office. His other cheerleaders were his mother, Namuwenge Sarah; step-mother Bisikwa Sarah; and Munialo Tracy Wandeeka, his younger sister.
Growing up, Mukhooli wished to become a journalist and a sportsman. While not strongly interested in football, but is a talented soccer player who has been on all his school teams. In fact, while in primary school at St. Edwards Junior Academy in Manafwa district in eastern Uganda, Mukhooli was the captain of the school football team. He also is the current captain of the UCU Mbale campus football team. He says he is a beneficiary of a sports bursary at UCU.
When not attending to the academic needs or his political office, you will find Mukhooli either in his passion fruit farm tending to the plants or looking after the chickens that he rears in his poultry farm.
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.
Vice Chancellor Aaron Mushengyezi (wearing cap), Brigadier General Rugumayo (front, second-right), and UCU Guild President Timothy Ddumba (front, right) participate with other participants during a warm-up run on October 21, 2023
By Pauline Luba Years ago, when Brig. Gen. Abdul Rugumayo, a member of Uganda’s army, completed Senior Four, he could not proceed to A’level. He said he did not have the money that was needed for school fees.
As a result, he registered to teach as a non-qualified teacher in a primary school in Uganda, so he could save some money for further education. He eventually saved the money and was able to complete school.
Uganda’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister in charge East African Affairs, Rebecca Kadaga, giving speech at the guild run.
What a coincidence that Rugumayo, the Deputy Director of the Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence — the intelligence arm of Uganda’s army — was the one invited to flag off a run organized to raise funds for tuition for needy students of Uganda Christian University (UCU).
“This activity is something very close to my heart, especially when someone is about to do their exams,” Rugumayo said, as he narrated his personal story, before adding: “To give is not because you have. To give is because you share.”
The run, which covered six kilometers (three miles) around Mukono in central Uganda, took place on October 21, 2023. Organized by UCU student leaders, the event began at 7 a.m. with participants engaging in aerobic exercises before the actual race at 8 a.m.
“I come from a family that would have required this type of arrangement during my time as a student,” said Rugumayo, who has served in the army for the past 35 years. He handed over Sh3 million (about $800) as contribution from the Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence. He also promised to contribute sh2million (about $530) and commended the student leaders for identifying the military as a partner in trying to support society.
Uganda’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister in charge East African Affairs, Rebecca Kadaga, was the main guest of the day.
Vice Chancellor Aaron Mushengyezi welcomes Brigadier General Rugumayo. Pamela Tumwebaze, acting Dean of Student Affairs, is in the background.
“I’m glad that the tradition has been maintained and that the young people are growing up as philanthropists. It’s very easy for one not to care about others because their tuition fees have been paid,” said Kadaga, a former Speaker of the Ugandan Parliament. She flagged off the maiden UCU guild run in 2020 and has been keeping tabs on the subsequent races. For the 2020 run, among the donors was Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, who contributed sh80million (about $21,250). At the October 21 event, Kadaga pledged to donate sh10million (about $2,700) towards the cause.
UCU Vice Chancellor Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi thanked runners for participating in a cause aimed at supporting needy students with tuition. Mushengyezi pledged sh3million (about $800) from the Office of the Vice Chancellor. Pamela Tumwebaze, the acting head of the Directorate of Student Affairs at UCU, pledged to contribute sh1million ($264). All participants in the race bought running kits — either a vest at sh20,000 (about $5.3) or a T-shirt at sh30,000 (about $8), which they wore on the day of the run. By the end of the event, sh24,000,000 ($6,400) had been collected in cash and pledges.
The proceeds are expected to be handed over to the student leaders who organized the run and they will, thereafter, distribute to students facing financial difficulties.
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.
Caleb Ndishakiye, a UCU School of Education alum, poses with children during a school outreach.
By Kefa Ssenoga When you sit down for a conversation with Caleb Ndishakiye, he does not need to mention his love for literature. His diction validates that. And if you sit with him for a longer time, you also will discover that he has a deep passion for communication, the promotion of literacy and sharing knowledge.
Ndishakiye has been fortunate to earn a living from his passion. His first attempt at teaching was in 2011 during his long holidays after writing his end of Senior Six national exams. An unlicensed teacher, he nevertheless taught literature at Seseme Girls Secondary School and Mutorele Boys Secondary School. Both schools are in Ndishakiye’s native area of Kisoro, southwestern Uganda.
Despite the passion of sharing knowledge, Ndishakiye did not envisage a career in teaching. Early in his secondary education, he developed a love for law, which he applied to study at Uganda Christian University (UCU).
“I wanted to pursue a course in law when I joined UCU, but interestingly, I was admitted for education,” he said. “I decided to pursue it and still be excellent at it!”
Ndishakiye and Patricia on their Dec. 7, 2019, wedding day at Thornycroft Chapel Kyaggwe, UCU.
He has never regretted the idea of pursuing a bachelor’s degree in education. He acknowledges that this move has had a significant impact on who he is now. Ndishakiye began his studies at UCU in 2012 and graduated in 2015. While at UCU, He was in the Honors College.
Barely a year after graduation, Ndishakiye was hired as a teaching assistant in the UCU foundations department. He was primarily teaching writing and study skills, and occasionally teaching in the literature department, particularly course units like the Bible as literature and other English language short courses.
His teaching journey at UCU began in 2016 after returning from a one-year mission and a leadership development program at Nairobi Chapel, Kenya, courtesy of the UCU chaplaincy and the community as a whole.
“UCU, particularly the Thornycroft Chapel, had a partnership with Nairobi Chapel in Kenya, where two missionaries were sent for a program. I was one of the two,” Ndishakiye says.
He was attached to the Teens’ church, which also is famously known as Club Expressions, an experience he says exposed them to an international perspective to life.
In 2018, after two years of teaching at UCU, Ndishakiye got a one-year opportunity to teach English language and Literature in English at Seroma Christian High School in Mukono. He needed more time to attend to his newly found passion for literacy programming and children’s literature through Glow-Lit Uganda, an organization he founded earlier that year. With UCU, he continued to serve until 2020 when Uganda closed schools due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“I was invited as the Programs Specialist to support the national technical portfolio of the association, and support the development of storybooks in Luganda and Runyankore-Rukiga,” he said.
He noted that in the role, his other tasks were “establishing libraries in Government primary schools and supporting their management and use, training of teachers and developing materials to support the lower primary school teaching of reading Luganda and Runyankore-Rukiga.”
The Room to Read Uganda project at the Reading Association of Uganda is sponsored by Room to Read, an organization that, according to their website, envisions a world in which “all children can pursue a quality education that prepares them to lead fulfilled lives and make positive change — in their families, communities and the world.”
Working closely with the Ministry of Education and Sports, the project has developed 154 storybook titles, two learner books, and two teachers’ guides in Luganda and Runyankore-Rukiga. It also involves training with teachers, government, publishers, and book value-chain players to build writing, illustration, design, and editing capacity, especially for children’s literature.
Ndishakiye argues that the Ugandan book market has not given sufficient focus to children’s literature. He is now an advocate for quality children’s literature production, distribution and use.
Ndishakiye is the third born of eight children of Richard and Lydia Ndishakiye. He completed his primary education at Muganza Primary School in Kisoro district. He studied O’level at Chahi Seed Senior Secondary School and A’level at Trinity College Kabale. Compassion International, an international charity organization, paid part of his school fees in primary and secondary school. At the university, he says, the charity paid all the school fees.
He is married to Patricia and the couple has a son, Jordan, age two.
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.
Rev. Prof. Edison Kalengyo delivers a sermon during a service in Nkoyoyo Hall at the UCU Main Campus in Mukono.
By Kefa Senoga What would you do about a son who turns down a job offer after graduating with a veterinary medicine degree, preferring to return to school to become a priest? In 1986, that was the dilemma of the father of Edison Kalengyo. His son, now the Rev. Can Prof. Kalengyo, had just completed a Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine, a four-year course, at Uganda’s Makerere University. Kalengyo had even received an appointment letter,dated June 20, 1986, from the Ministry of Animal Industry and Fisheries.
Despite his fresh qualification, Kalengyo’s heart was elsewhere. He felt compelled to answer God’s call to become a priest, prompting him to join Bishop Tucker Theological Collegein 1986. The college, now known as part of Uganda Christian University (UCU), in Mukono, is where Kalengyo pursued a bachelor’s degree in divinity. This was after going through a stringent process of selecting candidates for the ordained ministry by South Rwenzori Diocese, his home diocese.
Along the way, Kalengyo’s family kept questioning his decision. For instance, his father, who was a trained lay reader in the Church of Uganda, knew fully well that the economic prospects for priests were not encouraging. In the extended family, Kalengyo had been the first person to graduate with a degree. As such, many people looked up to him. But he stuck to God’s call on his life to the ordained ministry.
After his course at Bishop Tucker Theological College, the Rev. Kalengyo served in South Ruwenzori as a curate in the cathedral before moving on to serve as a diocesan secretary and, eventually, an archdeacon.
In 1997, the principal of Bishop Tucker Theological College, Bishop Eliphaz Maari, invited Kalengyo to join the staff of the college, following the recruitment process. He obliged. Since December 1997, UCU has been Kalengyo’s “home.” He currently serves as Professor of New Testament and Coordinator of Biblical Studies and Languages in the Bishop Tucker School of Divinity and Theology.
He says teaching theology at UCU goes beyond a mere salary. He believes that the true significance lies in knowing that he is fulfilling God’s calling on his life, and that this is what brings him reward and fulfillment.
Kalengyo has refrained from considering higher leadership positions within the church before, even when such opportunities presented themselves, in preference for his job of training church leaders. His extensive theological expertise and deep-rooted academic grounding make Kalengyo’s job of teaching church ministers one easy for him to execute. In addition to the 64-year-old’s bachelor’s degree in divinity, he also holds a Master of Philosophy in the New Testamentfrom Nottingham University in the United Kingdom (UK) and a PhD in Theology from the University of KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa.
Another reason for Kalengyo’s stay in theological education is his wife, who explained to him that by teaching church ministers, he was serving the entire province as opposed to being a bishop who serves mainly his diocese.
Because of this, Kalengyo says he is always happy and believes he has fulfilled his purpose in life whenever he meets his former students who have taken up church leadership roles.
Kalengyo says hisguiding principle has always been that every theological educator should be a pastor and actively participate in church life. For this reason, he once voluntarily served as an auxiliary member of the pastoral team at St. Philip’s Cathedral in Mukono and was the first Chaplain of St Luke’s Chapel Butabika. He also has served as a priest at St Luke’s Church Ntinda and was Priest-in-Charge All Saints Chapel Lweza.
He says he now pastors a group of about 400 Christians from his home diocese who reside in and around Kampala. The Christians gather for worship once every month. He said he also performs baptisms and helps to prepare couples for marriage.
Kalengyo and his wife, Dorothy, will celebrate their 36th marriage anniversary on December 12, this year. They have three adult children — two boys and one girl — and they are all married. From the three children, the Kalengyos have got five grandchildren.
Born in 1958 in Kasese district, western Uganda, to Hosiah and Elizabeth Katsiotho, Kalengyo completed his primary education at Karambi Primary School before joining St Edward’s Bukumi Secondary School for O’level and Ntare School for A’level. Both Bukuumi and Ntare are located in western Uganda.
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.
The Rev. Dr. Abel Wankuma Kibbedi was part of the pioneer class of the PhD in literature course at UCU.
By Kefa Senoga In 2005, when Uganda Christian University wanted to start a master’s program in literature, the institution sent some of its academics to convince alums they thought would take advantage of the course.
Abel Wankuma Kibbedi, who had graduated the previous year with a First Class degree in Bachelor of Education with English and Literature, was one of the alums approached. At the time, Kibbedi was residing with other undergraduate students in one of the hostels in Kauga, a suburb near UCU’s main campus.
When Prof. Timothy Wangusa, who was among the people overseeing the start of the master’s course at UCU, visited Kibbedi, he advised the latter to leave the hostel where he was residing. At the time, Kibbedi had just been offered a position as a teaching assistant at UCU. Wangusa rhetorically asked Kibbedi if he intended to continue sharing the same space with the students he was teaching.
To follow up on his advice, Wangusa offered Kibbedi, who had taken up the opportunity to enroll for the master’s course, the guest wing at the professor’s residence. Two years later, Kibbedi, who was part of the pioneer class of master’s in literature, was a proud recipient of the postgraduate degree, an achievement made possible courtesy of a scholarship through the staff development committee at UCU.
Again, in 2017, Kibbedi — and two other colleagues — was part of the pioneer class of the PhD in literature course at UCU. And at the most recent UCU graduation held at the Main Campus in Mukono on October 13, 2023, Kibbedi was among the graduates who earned a PhD. Kibbedi’s other two pioneer doctoral colleagues in literature were not present at the October 13 graduation. Mary Naula had already graduated in 2021, while the third PhD student lost her life two years into the course.
Between Kibbedi’s master’s degree in literature and the PhD, he earned another degree — Masters of Divinity and Theology — from the Pennsylvania-based Westminster Theological Seminary.
“While attending a conference in the United States in 2007, Church of Uganda Archbishop at the time, Henry Luke Orombi, asked the president of Westminster Theological Seminary if they would offer a scholarship to a Ugandan student,” Kibbedi said during an interview he granted Uganda Partners after his October 13 graduation.
The answer to Orombi’s question was in the affirmative. However, it was not a direct pass for Kibbedi, whom Orombi had in mind as he asked the question. There had to be interviews for the scholarship, which, fortunately, Kibbedi won.
According to Kibbedi, upon his return to Uganda, with a second master’s degree in the bag, the vice chancellor at the time, the Rev. Dr. John Senyonyi, singled him out among the younger staff for departmental leadership as part of professional development. This is how he assumed the role of heading the Honors College, a position he held from 2012 to 2021.
To make his new master’s degree count, Kibbedi was taken in by the Bishop Tucker School of Divinity and Theology to teach Hebrew and Greek, primarily because the program he had pursued in the US at Westminster had an aspect of the ancient languages. Despite this, Kibbedi notes that he has mainly been involved in teaching literature at UCU.
He is grateful to the UCU administration, without whose support, he says, he would have struggled to achieve anything. For instance, Kibbedi cites the example of UCU first Vice Chancellor Prof. Stephen Noll, in whose tenure the former pursued further studies in Pennsylvania. He said Prof. Noll decided that Kibbedi be left on half pay throughout the duration of his four-year course, as opposed to no pay, because the lecturer “had family members and dependants to take care of.” Kibbedi said the PhD now has buttressed his desire to continue sharing knowledge as an academic.
The achievement of the PhD did not come on a silver platter, though. “My wife had to bear my long hours of reading and absence; she has had to step in for many activities with the children,” the Rev. Kibbedi says.
He is married to Lydia Wankuma Kibbedi who works as an administrator of the Uganda Studies Program at UCU. They have a daughter, Atungonza Wankuma, age 15, and a son, Anunula Wankuma, age 14. Atugonza is in Senior Three at Wanyange Girls School while Anunula is also in the same class, at Busoga College Mwiri, his father’s alma mater. Both schools are found in eastern Uganda.
Kibbedi completed his primary education at Namalemba Primary School in eastern Uganda, before joining Busoga College Mwiri. From Mwiri, he pursued a diploma in education at the National Teachers College Kaliro, before eventually joining UCU.
Kibbedi is number six of a family of 12 children. His father, the Rev. JFJ. Kibbedi Nswemu, a politician and educator, passed away in 1999. He credits his interest in literature to his father. Kibbedi’s mother, Robina Christina Kibbedi, now retired, had a career as a social worker.
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.
Dr. Gladys Ayot Oyat celebrates with her husband, Dr. Michael Oyat, after attaining her doctorate during graduation at Uganda Christian University, Mukono campus, on Oct. 13, 2023.
By Irene Best Nyapendi Dr. Gladys Ayot Oyat’s inspiration to pursue a PhD in Education Administration and Management at Uganda Christian University (UCU) is rooted in her passion for addressing real-world challenges. Her commitment to women’s issues served as a driving force in choosing a research topic focused on the domestic violence impact on female teachers in Uganda.
Ayot’s research explores how domestic violence affects the teaching and administrative roles of female teachers working in secondary schools in Kitgum, northern Uganda.
Dr. Gladys Ayot Oyat, a former member of the governing council of Uganda Christian University, graduated with a PhD in Education Administration and Management on October 13.
Her study found that domestic violence adversely affects teaching roles, leading to poor service delivery, absenteeism, missed lessons, poor preparation, low self-esteem and mental health issues. This likewise negatively impacts women in administrative roles, resulting in reduced work, interpersonal relationships, learning outputs and mentorship. Female teachers employ various coping mechanisms, both informal and formal, but some strategies prove counterproductive. Support for victims is insufficient, hindering their ability to manage these challenges effectively.
Ayot found that the patriarchal nature of Ugandan society determines relationships between men and women irrespective of educational status.
“A lot needs to be done to address this challenge,” she said. “It undermines the laws we have in Uganda entrenched in our Constitution. My disappointment is that even women who are enlightened and educated, conceal what they go through in the name of protecting their marriage, adhering to culture and wanting to remain as role models to the students they teach when they are exposed to domestic violence. Worse still, taking the pain in silence and blaming themselves for the dysfunctional families.”
One moving story she encountered in her research involved a husband forcing his wife to have an abortion.
“This caused post-traumatic symptoms and depression,” Ayot said. “She would (imagine) the crying baby sitting on her lap and crying for help while she was in class teaching.”
With the dissemination of her findings, Ayot aims to encourage female teachers to be open to talking about the problems they go through and seeks for school administrators to support and create favorable conditions for women suffering from domestic violence.
Ayot, who was a member of the governing council of UCU, did her PhD on a modular course, which allowed her to study during the holidays.
She lauded UCU’s academic environment for its unique and supportive characteristics. The university’s modular approach, small class sizes, and strong faculty-student relationships fostered an atmosphere of shared learning and collaboration.
“I thank God that I chose UCU. My supervisor was very supportive; for example, during the Covid-19 pandemic time, he always called to follow up and give me support,” she said. “At the time when public places such as universities were closed as a way of curbing the spread of disease, I utilized the online university library.”
Ayot acknowledged the hectic and difficult journey to a PhD — long hours, rejection of proposals, and balancing social and work responsibilities.
“I was a wife and head teacher of Kitgum YY Okot Memorial College (2002-2022),” she said. “I had social responsibilities that I couldn’t ignore. At some point, I wanted to give up; for example, when I was working on chapter three of my research and my supervisor kept on asking me to redo it.”
However, her unwavering determination and support from her family, particularly her husband, who purchased grammar editing software for her, became pillars of strength.
Ayot said that being 61 years old also motivated her, knowing that she didn’t have as much time as the younger students.
“I told myself that I am not the type who should spend 10 years doing research. I wanted to do it and finish,” she said.
She is married to Dr. Michael Oyat with whom they have four children. She has served in the church as chairperson mothers union and is currently a lay Canon at Kitgum diocese. She studied a Bachelor and Masters in Education at Makerere University. She has served as Vice President, Mothers Union for the Province of Church of Uganda.
++++
To support Uganda Christian University programs, students, activities, and services, go towww.ugandapartners.org and click on the “donate” button, or contact UCU Partners Executive Director, Mark Bartels, at m.t.bartels@ugandapartners.org.
You must be logged in to post a comment.