Uganda Christian University (UCU) has been recognized as the first runner-up at the just concluded National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) exhibition held in Kamukuuzi, Mbarara Uganda from 26 – 28 March 2025.

The three-day exhibition event  was guided by the theme “Challenges, Best Practices, and Strategies for Artificial Intelligence Integration in Higher Education in Uganda”. The exhibition concluded with an awards ceremony. 

The awards were presented in three categories: The first category was tertiary institutions, the second was provisional licenced universities and other degree-awarding institutions, and finally, the public and chartered universities where UCU was categorised. 

This result has paused a five-year streak in which UCU consistently ranked first in these exhibitions, having been recognized as the best university in the competitions  for five consecutive editions. UCU secured second place, ranking behind Mountains of the Moon University, which took the top position, and ahead of the University of Kisubi, which finished third.

According to one of the judges, Denis Omvia, the awards were made in line with seven different guidelines. These were in alignment to the theme, the level of creativity, the level of participation of both staff and students, knowledge of the subject matter, the level of articulation, the number of stalls and the display set up in the stalls. While these factors did not carry equal weight, the judges expected exhibitors to demonstrate an understanding of all of them.

During his remarks, the chief judge, Edward Kanyesigye, praised the exhibitors’ displays. “Almost half of the exhibitions had innovations, some of them very high-ingenious.” He did, however, highlight some difficulties that needed to be identified for improvement. “There were obvious problems with internet connectivity and insufficient infrastructure,” he said. 

Speaking to the exhibitors, Dr. Kedrace Turyagyenda, the Permanent Secretary at Uganda’s Ministry of Education and Sports  who also graced the event as Guest of Honour, stated that the age of AI has arrived and that it must be embraced in order for learners to remain competitive in the job market. “The world is now smaller, but that means it is more complex,” she stated.

In his closing remarks to the team, Mr. David Mugawe, UCU’s Deputy Vice Chancellor of Finance and Administration, complimented both the staff and students who represented the university. “The feedback from the judges was very good; we are taking a trophy back home. To God be the glory.” His remarks were followed by a chorus from the team, reciting the very last words of his speech as they sang the university anthem.

UCU was represented by projects across there different faculties, schools and departments including the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Computing and Technology, Department of Visual Arts and Design, School of Law, Department of Engineering and Environment, School of Social Sciences, School of Education, School of Business and School of Journalism, Media and Communication. 

The exhibition not only showcased academic excellence and innovation but also highlighted the role of artificial intelligence in shaping higher education. UCU’s strong performance reaffirmed its commitment to quality education and research. As the university looks ahead, it remains dedicated to fostering creativity and preparing students for the evolving global landscape.

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Call for Applications for May/ Trinity Intake 2025

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By Feni Shannon
Minister for Culture And Arts
UCU Kampala Campus guild government

The Cultural Awareness Week is a time to celebrate diversity, traditions, and the heritage of various ethnic groups. It is also referred to as a week of cultural sensitivity. According to the National Center for Cultural Competence (NCCC), cultural awareness is being cognizant, observant, and conscious of the similarities and differences among and between cultural groups. However, it is a continual process because we cannot stop learning. Curiosity, an open mind to ask questions, and a strong desire to learn about cultural differences help in developing awareness. It also requires an openness to becoming conscious of one’s ideas, beliefs, traditions, languages, and more.

Uganda is rich in cultural diversity with over 56 ethnic groups and languages, each contributing to the nation’s traditions. With the largest groups being the Baganda, Banyankole, Basoga, Bakiga, Iteso, Acholi, and others, every ethnic group has its own language, culture, and way of life. In Uganda, Luganda is widely spoken as the lingua franca, especially in urban areas, while English and Swahili are the official languages.

Just as “we use different paths to reach the same market,” cultural diversity is reflected in our way of life. We come from different places, speak different languages, and have different customs but share common goals such as freedom, food, education, and ultimately, happiness. Change is inevitable in a changing society, yet traditions remain at the heart of identity. Schools and institutions play a key role in preserving and integrating cultural practices into the modern world.

Diversity is like a piece of art, shaped by different perspectives and experiences. It reminds us of the story of the village chief who listened to two disputing men. When one claimed another had stolen his cow, the chief said, “You are right.” The accused denied it, and the chief again said, “You are right.” When a third man questioned how both could be right, the chief told him, “You are right.” This story highlights the importance of respecting different viewpoints even when we do not agree with them. In a society governed by laws, what is deemed right often aligns with the views of the majority. However, true harmony comes from respecting others’ traditions, ideas, and beliefs even when they differ from our own.

Due to globalization, cultural awareness has become a significant tool in today’s society. Change is inevitable, and time waits for no one. However, as we move forward, it is crucial to reflect on our past and preserve cultural semblance in modern society. Cultural awareness allows us to see and respect other people’s perspectives and values, even when they are different from ours. People act for reasons known to them, and before judging, it is essential to step into their shoes. Understanding others helps build bridges instead of walls of hatred, bringing people together to appreciate diverse backgrounds. Cultural awareness fosters love over division and challenges stereotypes by bringing various voices to light through platforms like Cultural Awareness Week.

According to Dr. Page, striving for cultural awareness helps attain knowledge about different cultures, enhancing cultural competence in all aspects of life. Nika White emphasizes that cultural awareness improves interpersonal relationships by deepening understanding of people’s experiences and daily lives. This awareness keeps us mindful of the cultural differences in relationships, preventing misunderstandings.

Music and dance are at the heart of Ugandan culture and beyond. Each ethnic group has its own style, rhythm, and instruments. The Baganda are well known for the Bakisimba dance, performed during celebrations and weddings. Its origins trace back to a Buganda king who, after drinking a locally brewed banana beer (Malwa), expressed his joy through spontaneous movements. Over time, this evolved into a structured performance, reflecting appreciation and celebration. During traditional marriage ceremonies such as Kukyala and Kwanjula, men drum and sing while women gracefully sway their hips to the rhythm, creating a dance of devotion that humbles even a stranger’s heart.

The Acholi express themselves through the Larakaraka dance, a courtship dance marked by energetic footwork. Men showcase their masculinity, while women use calabashes and gourds, shaking them rhythmically to portray the warrior spirit. This dance is traditionally used by young men to express interest in women. Fast-paced drumming on deep-sounding royal drums (Bul) makes the dance irresistible, as masculinity is seen as a symbol of hard work and strength, reassuring a woman that a strong man can provide for her.

The Banyankole perform the Ekitagururo dance, which involves slow, graceful movements that symbolize pride and strength. The robust and energetic nature of the Banyankole people is reflected in the dance. During performances, shoulders move rhythmically with strong arm gestures, and women highlight their beauty by adorning themselves with colorful cloths. The charm of the Ekitagururo dance is so mesmerizing that visitors often find themselves drawn into its rhythm.

The Karimajong perform the Edonga dance, known for its energetic jumping and rhythmic chanting. It is mainly performed during celebrations, initiation ceremonies, and courtship, where young men demonstrate strength and stamina while women sing and clap in encouragement. Dressed in beaded jewelry, animal skins, and ankle bells, their movements create a visual and auditory spectacle that captivates the audience.

The Basoga are famous for the Tamenhaibuga dance, which translates to “I cannot handle it.” This dance, performed during weddings, initiation ceremonies, and community gatherings, is a symbol of unity, cooperation, and joy. It features energetic hip movements, rhythmic stamping, and traditional attire, accompanied by drums, fiddles, and shakers, making it an unforgettable experience.

The Iteso perform the Ekiria Kiria dance during communal celebrations, particularly after a good harvest or significant social gatherings. Men and women dance in circles, following each other joyfully, creating a scene filled with laughter and camaraderie. The dance is physically demanding, requiring strength and enthusiasm, and remains one of the most cherished aspects of Iteso culture.

In Nigeria, the Igbo people are known for the Atilogwu dance, characterized by acrobatics, flips, and rhythmic footwork, accompanied by talking drums, flutes, and rattles. It is performed during celebrations such as weddings and festivals. Igbo maidens take pride in their cultural traditions, feeling cherished and celebrated, especially during traditional marriage ceremonies where they joyfully dance with friends, showcasing their chosen partners to the community.

South Sudan, a culturally diverse country, has the Dinka dance, also known as the Jieng dance. It is famous for its high jumps, symbolizing agility and height. The dance features various styles, such as the Ajak dance, which showcases strength, the Bech dance, a social dance with rhythmic foot movements, and the Raan dance, performed during communal gatherings. The deep cultural significance of these dances keeps traditions alive.

The Lugbara people of West Nile perform the Duluka dance, once used to prepare warriors for battle. Now, it is a dance of victory and celebration, performed at cultural festivals and ceremonies. Characterized by energetic combat-like movements, the dance reflects the warrior spirit of the Lugbara people. The Gaze dance, another Lugbara tradition, symbolizes unity and community spirit. Women captivate audiences with graceful hip movements and radiant smiles, leaving onlookers mesmerized.

Cultural Awareness Week serves as a reminder of the richness of traditions and the importance of respecting diversity. Through music, dance, and shared experiences, communities come together, fostering unity and appreciation for different cultures. As cultures continue to evolve, awareness and respect for traditions will ensure that cultural heritage remains an integral part of society.

Uganda Christian University (UCU), in partnership with Generosity Path, hosted a training on generosity, themed “The Transformative Power of Generous Giving & Living.” The session, held in Nkoyoyo Hall, aimed to inspire a culture of selfless giving toward those in need.

Speaking to the audience, session facilitator, Juliet Kasiita, emphasized that generosity is supposed to be and can become a way of life, not just an act. “Giving is living sacrificially; it should be a lifestyle. It is important to give to the world so that it can be healed,” she said.

Kasiita challenged participants to embrace generosity in their daily lives, supporting authentic charitable causes even if it means sacrificing some of their money or material.

“Some of you have multiple hens, but it feels like treason to even give away one.”

Kasiita further explained that true giving is an act of trust in God rather than reliance on personal judgment. She addressed those who withhold generosity from individuals they deem unworthy, such as drunkards or prostitutes, urging them to consider that their kindness could be a catalyst for transformation in those lives.

Dorothy Tushemereirwe, the UCU fundraising consultant and the event’s convener, shared how her humble background and the helping hand from ‘givers’ shaped her passion for giving. “I do what I do because, at one point, someone touched my heart, and that has been my driving force,” she said. Dorothy has since 2020 run several fundraisers just at UCU to create awareness and raise financial support for students in need of tuition support: the most prominent was the “Just 10k” campaign, which raised over 200 million.

“By God’s grace, we have raised funds that have enabled over 100 students to complete their studies at UCU,” Dorothy says.

Nathan Simbliyabo, a Mass Communication student, described the session as an eye-opener. “I used to think that generosity was only for those who have excess, but now I see that even with the little I have, I can make a difference in someone’s life.”

For Nuwaha Joshua, another Mass Communication student, the session was a call to action. “I was particularly moved by the testimony from Dorothy Tushemereirwe. It made me reflect on how small acts of generosity can have long-term effects. I feel inspired to be more intentional about helping others.”

Speaking to the audience, UCU Chaplain, the Rev. Canon. Paul Wasswa Ssembiro, reminded attendees that God continually blesses them with gifts, yet they often fail to reflect his generosity. He urged them to recognize and embrace the blessings they have received by extending generosity to others.

The training on generosity at UCU served as a powerful reminder that giving is a grace. It is not just an act but a way of life rooted in faith and compassion. Through inspiring testimonies and thought-provoking discussions, participants were challenged to embrace a spirit of generosity that transcends personal judgments and transforms lives. As UCU continues to foster a culture of giving, the impact of such initiatives will ripple through individuals and communities, creating lasting change.

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Call for Applications for May/ Trinity Intake 2025

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Uganda Christian University (UCU) has announced that it is fully embracing the transition to competency – based education model. 

According to Rev. Prof. John Mulindwa Kitayimbwa, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs, this shift aims to produce graduates with practical, employable skills that meet the demands of the job market. The new approach emphasizes knowledge application, behavioral change, and hands-on experience.

Rev. Prof Kitayimbwa explained that UCU is evolving all its programs to align with personalized instruction, ensuring that students are not only knowledgeable but also capable of applying what they learn in real-world situations.

The new secondary school curriculum was rolled out in 2020 and focuses on key skills such as critical thinking, creativity, innovation, digital literacy, numeracy, communication, problem-solving, collaboration, and self-directed learning among others.

Prof. Kitayimbwa acknowledged that educators trained under the old system might face challenges adapting to this approach, underscoring the need for universities to rethink teacher training programs. To support this transition, UCU is restructuring its education programs by reducing classroom time and increasing practical learning experiences.

“Students will no longer be in class for five days a week. Instead, they will attend classes for four days, with one day dedicated to working in real-world settings,” Prof. Kitayimbwa explained. “This initiative will equip them with essential skills such as starting and managing  small businesses, as well as tracking sales and financial records” he added.

In addition to curriculum changes, UCU is overhauling its evaluation system. The university is shifting from a summative assessment model—which focuses on final exams—to a formative approach, where students receive continuous feedback to track and improve their progress throughout their studies.

Another significant reform is the restructuring of internships. Instead of the traditional two-month internship period, students will engage in ongoing internship experiences from their first year until graduation.

“Internships at UCU will now be a continuous process, allowing students to integrate academic knowledge with hands-on experience throughout their university journey,” Prof. Kitayimbwa said.

The Dean of UCU’s School of Education, Dr. Mary Ocheng Kagoire, highlighted the importance of aligning university training with the evolving education system.

“As the changes are taking place in the education system, particularly competency based, we felt it important that instead of conducting in-service training for teachers in the field, it is better that by the time students leave the university, they are already competent enough to put into practice what they have learned,” Dr Kagoire said.

Rev. Dr. Paul Kakooza, Director of Education at the Anglican Church of Uganda, also welcomed the changes, emphasizing that they align with the church’s broader vision for education.

“We appreciate these reforms, which are designed to improve the quality of teachers and their ability to deliver within the new curriculum framework. Our goal is to produce graduates who are not only knowledgeable but also capable of creating opportunities for themselves,” he noted.

Prof. Angella Napakol, UCU’s Director of Academic Affairs, elaborated on how the university is incorporating practical mentorship into its programs. She cited the ICT department’s mentorship initiative, known as “Code Buddy,” where alumni working in the industry mentor first-year students.

“Through this mentorship program, students engage with professionals both on and off campus, leading to remarkable outcomes,” Prof. Napakol explained.

She also highlighted similar hands-on experiences in the School of Journalism, Media and Communication, where students work on and publish news stories, films, and related articles through UCU’s community newspaper, The Standard. This practical exposure ensures graduates are well-prepared for their respective careers.

With these sweeping reforms, UCU is positioning itself as a leader in competency-based education, ensuring that its graduates leave the university with the skills and experience needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive job market. 

In the Media

https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/ucu-ditches-old-curriculum-for-competence-based-approach-4931208

https://youtu.be/irB86mwklqE?si=g1olzckx4wnlu_JM

Uganda Radio Network February 17,2025 – https://www.ugandaradionetwork.net/story/ucu-phases-out-old-curriculum

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Dr. Jerome Kubiriba, Director of National Agricultural Research Organisation NARO-Kachwekano (Kazardi) delivered an inspiring public lecture on strategies to boost commercial agriculture in Kigezi. The event, held on February 7, 2025, at Uganda Christian University – Bishop Barham University College Kabale (UCU-BBUC) Multipurpose Hall, attracted a diverse audience, including farmers, agricultural experts, students, and community members.

Dr. Kubiriba highlighted Kigezi’s rich agricultural potential, emphasizing the need to shift from subsistence farming to commercial agriculture to improve livelihoods and drive economic growth. He acknowledged the region’s fertile soils and favorable climate but pointed out challenges such as limited market access, inadequate financing, and outdated farming methods that hinder productivity. 

To address these challenges, Dr. Kubiriba proposed key strategies for transformation, including better market access and infrastructure, strengthening transport networks and market connections to ensure farmers get fair prices for their produce. He also encouraged value addition through agro-processing to increase profitability and reduce post-harvest losses. 

He further stressed the importance of modern farming techniques, including improved seeds, irrigation, and mechanization, to boost yields. Additionally, he advocated for farmer training and support to enhance skills and productivity and emphasized the need for financial and investment support through better access to loans, subsidies, and agricultural investments.

Dr. Kubiriba emphasized the need for collaboration among farmers, government agencies, private investors, and development partners to create a thriving agricultural sector. He urged policymakers to implement supportive policies, including tax incentives and subsidies, to encourage agricultural growth. 

“Commercializing agriculture in Kigezi is not just about increasing food production; it’s about creating wealth, improving livelihoods, and securing a prosperous future for generations to come,” Dr. Kubiriha remarked. His lecture left attendees motivated and hopeful about the future of agriculture in Kigezi, with many expressing a renewed commitment to adopting modern and profitable farming practices.

Dr. Kubiriba concluded by outlining the long-term benefits of commercial agricultural growth for Kigezi, such as more employment, improved rural livelihoods, and higher food security. He expressed confidence that, with the correct assistance and tactics, Kigezi might become an example of sustainable agricultural development in Uganda.

Uganda Christian University (UCU) Vice Chancellor, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, officially flagged off a group of 8 students from the School of Business, the School of Social Sciences, and the Faculty of Engineering, Design and Technology for an exchange semester under the Erasmus+ Exchange Program.

Four students from the Faculty of Engineering, Design and Technology will be heading to Sapienza University in Italy, while three students from the School of Business and one from the School of Social Sciences will be attending Hanze University of Applied Sciences. Each of these students will spend a semester at their respective host institutions.

Dr. Miria Agunyo, Dean of Faculty of Engineering, Design, and Technology noted that this program is a result of UCU’s previous work in international collaborations. “We had a project called DALILA, which we launched in 2021, focusing on curriculum development in sustainable business and renewable energy,” she explained.

“After successfully completing this project in December 2023, we were given the opportunity to extend our partnership with all our partners. This success enabled us to secure an exchange semester opportunity for our students.”

Talking about the criteria for selecting the students, Dean of the School of Business, Vincent Kisenyi, emphasized that the process for these students is strictly merit-based. “Once the call for applications is made, we share it with students through various social media platforms. They then apply, and we take them through multiple stages of interviews. The best candidates are selected through a transparent and competitive process, where everyone has an equal chance of success. We also prioritize gender balance,” Kisenyi stated.

Canon Prof. Mushengyezi expressed UCU’s pride in participating in academic exchange programs, emphasizing their significance in student development. “It is our joy as UCU to be part of these academic exchange programmes, as they provide invaluable exposure and skill enhancement for our students,” he said.

“When they go abroad, they encounter new ways of learning, academic challenges, and diverse perspectives. This experience enriches them with fresh knowledge and skills, which they bring back to benefit both themselves and the university.”

“We encourage all other faculties to engage with our partners globally so that they can create more of these opportunities for both our students and our staff,” he added.

Auma Angella, a Bachelor of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering student selected for the exchange program at Sapienza University, expressed her excitement about the opportunity. She highlighted that the experience will not only expose her to diverse engineering practices but also allow her to immerse herself in a new culture and gain insights into different ways of doing things.

The Erasmus+ Exchange Program marks another milestone in Uganda Christian University’s commitment to providing students with global learning opportunities. Through partnerships, UCU continues to equip its students with international exposure, diverse academic experiences, and valuable professional skills.

By: Kefa Senoga