Uganda Christian University’s (UCU) Mbale University College, in partnership with UCU Partners hosted a transformative workshop for theology students August 13 aimed at equipping future clergy with both theological depth and practical life skills.

The one-day training was facilitated by the Rev. Canon Prof. Peter Nyende, Professor in the UCU School of Divinity and Theology, and Mrs. Comfort Tumuhamye, a faculty member in the School of Business at UCU. It was held as part of the North Karamoja Scholarship Program, a unique initiative supported by UCU Partners and designed by Dr. Jonathan Tumwebaze, Director of University Connections with UCU Partners.

Unlike traditional scholarships, the North Karamoja program extends beyond academic and ministry formation. It incorporates personal development training, business evangelism, model diocese visits, and other activities intended to prepare clergy for service in today’s complex and dynamic world.

In the morning session, Prof. Nyende drew from his professorial lecture series to explore “The Call, Care, and Worship,” a theme that resonated deeply with both students and faculty. The afternoon session, led by Mrs. Tumuhamye, focused on business evangelism—equipping participants with entrepreneurship skills to promote household transformation among clergy families.

The workshop was graced by the interim Principal of Mbale University College, Mr. Vicent Kisenyi, who underscored the need for exceptional leadership among church leaders in changing times. He urged students to take their formation seriously, noting that the role of priests today extends beyond the pulpit to that of fathers, consultants, and advisors capable of handling business in a Godly manner.

Rev. Okello Daniel, Coordinator of the Theology Program, expressed gratitude to both the college administration and UCU Partners for implementing such a holistic scholarship model. He noted that while the program specifically supports students from North Karamoja, its impact is felt by the entire theology department. He also thanked UCU Partners for donating ten copies of Prof. Nyende’s latest book, The Call, Care and Worship, now available in the university library.

Currently, four students benefit directly from the North Karamoja Scholarship Program. For more information on UCU Partners’ work across at Uganda Christian University, visit https://www.ugandapartners.org/