The Deputy Vice Chancellor of Uganda Christian University (UCU) in charge of Finance and Administration, Mr David Mugawe, has encouraged international students to take advantage of the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) Mature Age Entry and Equivalency Scheme to obtain direct equivalency for the Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE), making it easier to gain admission to the University.

 

Mr Mugawe made the remarks while addressing a delegation from the Global South Fellowship of Anglican Churches (GSFA), who are attending a seven-day Formation Retreat at the Lweza Training and Conference Centre from 14 to 20 July 2026. The delegation visited UCU as part of their pastoral tour.

 

He noted that many students from neighbouring countries, such as Kenya and Tanzania, often face challenges when applying for admission because of differences in academic qualifications.

 

 “Many students from countries such as Kenya and Tanzania find it difficult to gain admission to the University. However, by using the NCHE equivalency system, applicants only need to apply online, submit their academic results, and the system will determine the appropriate UACE equivalency required for admission,” Mr Mugawe said.

 

Mr Mugawe also revealed that the University is exploring ways to support financially disadvantaged international students who wish to study at UCU.

 

He acknowledged that the institution continues to face challenges, including limited financial resources, inadequate accommodation for the growing student population, and insufficient office space. However, he expressed gratitude to partners such as the Ankrah Foundation for their continued support.

 

 “Our greatest challenges remain financial resources, accommodation for the increasing number of students, and office space. We thank God for partners such as the Ankrah Foundation, whose support continues to strengthen the University,” he said.

 

The Associate Dean of the Bishop Tucker School of Theology and Divinity, Rev Brian Muhereza, reaffirmed the School’s commitment to preserving its rich theological heritage.

 

He noted that the School traces its origins to 1913, making it one of the oldest theological institutions in the region.

 

 “Over the years, the School has had a significant impact not only within our region but also across the global Church. Many of our graduates have gone on to become bishops, archbishops and other senior church leaders. We thank God for this remarkable legacy,” Rev Muhereza said.

 

The Chairperson of the UCU Governing Council, Rt Rev Prof Bishop Alfred Olwa, encouraged the patron for international students in the School of Theology and Divinity to continue expanding the University’s reach by opening opportunities for more students from across Africa, including countries along the Indian Ocean coastline.

 

Speaking on behalf of the visiting delegation, the Archbishop-elect of the Province of the Church of Burundi and Bishop of Bujumbura Diocese, Rt Rev Eraste Bigirimana, pledged to promote UCU within and beyond Uganda’s borders in order to attract more international students.

 

The delegation concluded its visit with a tour of the University campus. Earlier in the day, the visitors attended the Sunday service at Nkoyoyo Hall before visiting the Anglican Martyrs’ Memorial Shrine in Namugongo as part of their pastoral programme.