Mukono, Uganda (November 20, 2024) – Directorate of Research, Partnerships and Innovation at UCU hosted a seminar today focused on the pressing issue of infertility challenges and what responses or views Christian’s present.  It featured a keynote address by renowned Professor Miriam Nakalembe. The seminar highlighted the importance of balancing medical interventions with spiritual guidance and support.

By fostering dialogue and critical thinking, the African Aeropagus Society aims to create a platform for exploring pressing social and ethical issues from a Christian worldview. This seminar on infertility challenges exemplifies the society’s commitment to leading discussions in relevant topics and promoting informed discourse.

The seminar explored the complex interplay and ethical dilemmas between faith and medical advancements in addressing infertility challenges. Professor Nakalembe’s insightful keynote address provided a comprehensive overview of the topic. She discussed the different types of infertility, including primary and secondary infertility, and their underlying causes.

Professor Nakalembe’s presentation shed light on the delicate balance between medical interventions and spiritual guidance in navigating the challenges associated with infertility. As a result, participants engaged in thought-provoking discussions, examining the role of Christian values in navigating the challenges associated with infertility. 

She emphasized that God, the originator of science, has entrusted us with a limited understanding to extend His healing hand to one another. While medical advancements offer hope, she reminded the audience that God’s divine intervention can transcend the limitations of science, especially in matters of fertility adding that there are things medicine can remedy but also there are things only God can remedy.

Professor Nakalembe extended her heartfelt sympathies to couples navigating the challenging journey of infertility. She highlighted the alarming statistic that six out of every hundred couples face infertility issues. Emphasizing the importance of unity, she urged couples to make decisions together, supporting each other through this difficult period. Moreover, she called upon the audience to exhibit compassion and avoid placing undue pressure on those struggling with infertility.

The University Chaplain, Rev. Can. Paul Wasswa Ssembiro, offered a balanced perspective on the complex issue of infertility and its challenges. He reminded the audience that God is the ultimate giver of life and that human life is sacred. As such, when considering treatments like surrogacy, it is essential to reflect on God’s original design for the family and the inherent role of parents in nurturing their children. He emphasized that science and faith are not mutually exclusive and can complement each other in addressing these challenges.

The University Chaplain, Rev. Can. Paul Wasswa Ssembiro, expressed gratitude to UCU and the Directorate fof Research, Partnerships and Innovation for initiating important conversations about infertility challenges. He emphasized the need for greater theological understanding of infertility within the Church, urging men of God and preachers to be more informed and empathetic towards those struggling with this issue. The Chaplain also cautioned against commercializing childbearing, advocating for a return to respecting the natural process of conception rather than treating it as a business opportunity.

The seminar was concluded with a vote of thanks from UCU’s Director of Communication and Public Relations Mrs. Harriet Adong Ekallam Atuyambe, who expressed gratitude to all participants, the keynote speaker, and organizers for their contributions to the insightful and thought-provoking discussion on infertility challenges. Mrs. Atuyambe said, “Thank you very much Prof. Nakalembe for using relatable examples while simplifying our understanding of fertility and infertility. You are part of the UCU family, please keep your telephone contact (s) open so that we can all engage in further discussing and fleshing out the infertility challenge.”

Compiled by: Blessing Twiine

Edited by: Harriet Adong, UCU Director Communication and Public Relations (Vice Chancellor’s Division)

By Irene Best Nyapendi
Uganda Christian University (UCU) has introduced a new PhD program — the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Management. The program, which is the first PhD in the UCU School of Business, started with four modules. The module leaders are professors carefully sourced from some of the world’s best universities. 

By benchmarking against world-class universities worldwide, such as the University of Sheffield in the United Kingdom and the University of Agder in Norway, UCU aims to generate a new model of PhD training and elevate the standard of PhD education in the East African region.

The Rev. Dr. John Kitayimbwa, the UCU Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs, commended the Dean and the administration of the School of Business for developing the program, noting that the university conducted extensive research and market analysis, which revealed the need for innovative business education. 

Kitayimbwa explained that unlike historical PhD training models, where African scholars are often paired with retiring professors, limiting exposure to cutting-edge ideas, this program brings together experienced and young professors. 

“Traditional PhD models tie scholars to retiring professors, limiting them to outdated ideas,” Kitayimbwa said. “Pairing students with seasoned and young professors ensures they receive up-to-date research training to tackle challenges and provide relevant solutions for the next 30-40 years.”

This unique approach ensures research relevance, fostering innovative ideas. The ultimate goal is to unlock research potential for sustainable development and prosperity across the continent. 

Kitayimbwa urged the pioneer students to strive for excellence and aspire to do work that can appear in well-respected journals.

“The PhD is as short or as long as the quality of the student,”  Kitayimbwa said. “The students are given a maximum of seven years to complete the PhD, but you can also complete it in two-and-a-half years.” 

Dr. Henry Mugisha, the Head of the Department of Post-Graduate Programs in the School of Business, led the team that developed the program. He said that the program was inspired by the need to initiate a new way of PhD training that focuses on generation or research content worthy of publication in well-respected academic journals during the training. This is a shift from the monograph PhD model that characterizes PhD training, at least in Uganda at the moment.

He noticed that the School of Business did not have a PhD program, yet UCU needed to engage in and contribute to knowledge creation in business at an advanced level. 

Mugisha said his inspiration was to debunk the misconception in Uganda that you cannot have a PhD if you are not subjected to periodic sit-in examinations. This makes this PhD unique because the mode of delivery is new in the country.

“We are using a practice-relevant approach, focusing on writing, disseminating research findings, and solving societal problems,” Mugisha explained. “Unlike traditional coursework and examination methods, our program yields a paper addressing a specific concern at the end of each module.”

This program aims to generate knowledge, address business-related problems, and equip students with first-class research, writing and dissertation writing skills.

The first cohort was welcomed with an October 10, 2024, orientation session. With 30 enrolled students, the first class commenced on October 19, 2024

The program has specialized tracks in Finance, Strategic Management, Procurement and Supply Chain Management, Human Resource Management, International Business, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, and Accounting — all of which are critical areas for driving positive change in business ecosystems in Africa and beyond.

Participants in the program are expected to benefit from a collaborative learning environment that offers mentorship. Students will have the opportunity to work closely with distinguished faculty on research projects, publications, and teaching opportunities.

The program has two options to accommodate the candidates’ backgrounds and goals. First, there is a PhD in Management by Coursework and Research, and a PhD in Management by Publications.

The PhD in Management by Publications is a tailored program that examines the foundational principles and evolutionary dynamics of the management field, alongside key catalysts driving change within the discipline. It requires a minimum of three years and a maximum of seven years to complete.

Uganda Christian University (UCU) joined thousands of congregants at All Saint’s Cathedral today, as the Diocese of Kampala welcomed their newly consecrated and enthroned Assistant Bishop, now the Rt. Reverend Fredrick Jackson Baalwa. The colourful ceremony was graced by the President of Uganda, His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. President Museveni who commended the church and its leadership for the critical role they play towards nation-building and promotion of peace in the country, pledged UGX. 1.5 billion in support for the church in the forthcoming year. He also made a personal pledge of UGX 100 million toward the completion of the nearly completed new home of the Cathedral.

Bishop-elect Baalwa affirmed his commitment to the Church of Uganda, swearing to:

1. Pay true and canonical obedience to the Archbishop.

2. Be bound by the Constitution and Canons of the Church of Uganda.

3. Offer his resignation to the Archbishop if requested by a two-thirds majority of the Diocesan Bishops.

As Assistant Bishop, Baalwa will work closely with His Grace the Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Mugalu, who is both Archbishop of the Church of Uganda and Bishop of the Diocese of Kampala, to oversee the spiritual growth and development of the diocese.

“We are confident that Rev Canon Baalwa will bring his wealth of experience and expertise to this new role,” Archbishop Kaziimba said as the consecration ceremony progressed. “We look forward to working with him to build a stronger, more vibrant church community.”

Bishop Baalwa brings 41 years of experience in ministry, having served as parish priest, and chaplain for several primary schools on Mukono Hill—Bishop East, Bishop West, Bishop Central, Mukono Bishop Secondary School, and Uganda Christian University.

His vision for the Diocese of Kampala includes pastoring, supporting and mentoring clergy.

In his first address as Assistant bishop, Bishop Baalwa expressed his gratitude and commitment to serving the people of Kampala diocese. He emphasized the need for discipleship which he explains that is critical to equipping believers to discern truth from falsehood, especially in an environment where cultic teachings can easily spread.

“Discipleship is central to my vision, I believe in the power of small groups, such as home cells, to foster spiritual growth, accountability, and community. Our ministry must reach the slums, the political sphere, and every corner of society,” Bishop Baalwa said.

He further  the clergy and people of the Diocese to work together to build God’s kingdom. He asked for prayers and support, encouraging everyone to participate in the mission.

“Let us work together to build God’s kingdom. Everyone has a role to play, whether through prayer, using your talents, or supporting the church’s initiatives,” Bishop Baalwa said.

Born in 1963 in Musita, Mayuge District, Uganda, Bishop Baalwa was raised in a devout Christian family. He holds A Master of Arts Degree in Theology Awarded by Uganda Christian University. A jointly taught and supervised Degree by Trinity School for Ministry USA and Uganda Christian University 2002-2006. A Bachelor of Divinity Awarded by Makerere University but taught at Bishop Tucker Theological College then (1993 -1996).

Diploma in Education (Kyambogo University 1990-1992) He also has a General Certificate in Theology from Namugongo  Seminary, a Certificate in Education from Kyambogo and various continuous trainings through short courses in various areas of Ministry.

His journey into ministry began at 19 years old when he led a church service on New Year’s Day in 1983.

He has been married to Esther Ruth Nakasumba since 1995 and together they have been blessed with three biological children and two adopted children.

Rev. Canon Geoffrey Byarugaba the Provincial/Diocesan Head of Clergy and Diocesan Coordinator of Missions and Outreach congratulated Bishop Baalwa on this milestone and ministry journey.

“Allow me to heartily congratulate my brother, Ven. Fredrick Jackson Baalwa and his dear wife Ruth on this important milestone on their ministry journey. I welcome you, and assure you that in the Lord’s vineyard is ample space for you to stand on and serve Him and minister to His people,” Byaruhanga said.

The event also marked a significant milestone in the life of the Diocese of Kampala, coinciding with the dedication of the newly completed All Saints Cathedral.

The 5,000-seater cathedral, is a result of over 20 years of planning, fundraising, construction, and refining.

The cathedral houses the Diocesan staff offices, Cathedral parish offices, Ministry facilities, adequate parking, amenities and recreation facilities and five chapels.

The Very Rev. Canon Dr. Rebecca Nyegenye Provost, All Saints’ Church of Uganda, noted that the journey to this new cathedral has been long and demanding, but through perseverance, prayer, and generosity the vision has turned into reality.

“For years, our congregation has worshipped faithfully in a smaller place and now, we have a sanctuary with enough space to reflect our Lord’s beauty, majesty, and love,” elated Nyegenye said.

The Diocesan Secretary Rev. Canon John Awodi, who has seen the new cathedral from the hatching of its plan to the now monumental structure, couldn’t help but burst with awe and joy.“Looking at the interior of this glamorous work only strikes me with overwhelming awe. I am glad that I saw the new Cathedral sanctuary from its inception and now I am part of the people making a grand entry into it,” Awodi said.

Compiled by: Irene Best Nyapendi

Edited by: Jimmy Siyasa

Uganda Christian University (UCU) recently hosted an orientation for students who won grants from the UCU Students’ Innovation Challenge, bringing together talented young minds with groundbreaking ideas to solve societal problems.

This year’s challenge saw over 35 groups of students submit 35 innovative projects, however, only 10 were selected to receive grants after pitching their ideas.

The orientation event, held on October 29, 2024, was graced by Mr. Vincent Kisenyi, UCU Dean of the School of Business, Dr. Martin Kizito, Head of Research Partnerships and Innovation, Ageet Abraham Onyait, Senior Officer from Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) and Achola Theona from National Agricultural Research Organisation (NAARO). The event aimed to inspire and equip student innovators to turn their ideas into reality.

Ria Joy Odong, a second-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition and Dietetics, is part of a five-member team working on increasing the shelf life of jackfruits and adding value to them by producing oil and crisps.

Odong expressed gratitude to UCU for the opportunity and grant of USD 1000.

She believes that in six months her team will have a prototype to present.

“In six months, we hope to have a prototype, having tested either the oil, crisps, or both, I have experience in making oil out of jackfruit but I was doing it in small scale at home but with the help of our mentors, I am sure we shall make it happen in big scale to solve the problem of jackfruits getting  spoilt in markets because of their shelf life,” she said

Ria noted that UCU has the machines they will use to produce the desired products.

“We are grateful to UCU for this opportunity, grant and platform to bring our idea to life,” Ria added.

Gaspher Alir Ageno , a fourth-year Civil Engineering student, the team lead of a group of six working on a project about using the hybrid turbine to harness the wind- solar energy to solve the problem of water crisis in Kotido Karamoja

They hope to create a hybrid wind-solar turbine that powers water pumps for irrigation, livestock, and household use.

Their objective is to provide sustainable water access in Karamoja.

Ageno expressed his enthusiasm and gratitude to UCU for the grant.

“I am so grateful to UCU for this grant because it’s going to help me turn my dream into reality. Also, this opportunity has connected us with experts who have guided us on how to protect our innovation,” he said.

Among the other projects are:

• Developing an application that manages patients records
• Creating wine glasses from recycled bottles.
• Developing an app connecting students to the gig economy.

UCU’s Students Innovation Challenge stems from the University’s dedication to fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. By providing grants, mentorship, and intellectual property guidance, UCU empowers students to turn their ideas into tangible solutions, shaping a brighter future for Uganda and beyond.

Dr. Martin Kizito emphasized UCU’s vision as “A Centre of Excellence in the Heart of Africa,” stressing the importance of research and innovation.

He noted that the University’s Directorate of Research Partnerships and Innovation (DRPI) supports both staff and students, recognizing the potential within its student body.

“We believe that our students have potential and brilliant ideas that need to be harnessed. We want to promote ideas tailored to solving problems in our society,”Dr. Kizito said.

He explained that the Students’ Innovation Challenge attracts brilliant minds with excellent ideas, and the university is committed to supporting them from ideation to commercialization.

“We want to promote ideas tailored to solving problems in our society and we are ready and committed to supporting our student innovators all through the way,” Dr. Kizito said.

He encouraged the student innovators to embrace teamwork and appreciate that each member has value to add.

He also noted that engagements between the student innovators and the Directorate of Research Partnerships and Innovation will be governed by UCU’s policy and intellectual property guidelines.

Ageet Abraham Onyait, Senior Officer from Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), took the students through a comprehensive presentation on intellectual property, covering patent rights, utility models, industrial designs, copyrights, trade secrets, trademarks, and patent searches.

He emphasized the significance of intellectual property in protecting innovative ideas and facilitating commercial success.

“Intellectual property is a good indicator of the innovative capacity of a firm and facilitate commercial success,” he said.

Joseph Mbihayeimaana, a consultant for DRPI, took the students through team formation and team dynamics in innovation and research.

He urged them to build a strong foundation, setting clear goals and objectives.

Additionally, he encouraged open communication and feedback, emphasizing the importance of defining roles.

“Define your roles and responsibilities within the team, ensuring everyone has a distinct role,” he said.

UCU’s Students Innovation Challenge showcases the University’s dedication to fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. By providing grants, mentorship, and intellectual property guidance, UCU empowers students to turn their ideas into tangible solutions, shaping a brighter future for Uganda and beyond.

Compiled by: Irene Best Nyapendi, Writer @UCU

Edited by: Harriet Adong, UCU Director Communication and Public Relations (Vice Chancellor’s Division)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bushenyula’s passion for mentorship stems from his desire to share knowledge and become a teacher. “I enjoy guiding my mentees and seeing them succeed independently,” he said. 

By Kefa Senoga
Uganda Christian University (UCU) has added a new chapter to its legacy in sports by launching disc golf as the latest addition to the university’s diverse games lineup. Disc golf brings fresh opportunities for competition and the pursuit of sporting excellence at the university.

UCU sports tutor Samuel Lukaire said the university’s collaboration with Disc Golf Uganda to introduce the sport at UCU was driven by the opportunities it presents for students. Among these is participating in international competitions, which would expand their sporting experience.

According to Lukaire, the future plans for this game at UCU involve improving the recently created disc golf course at Besania (Ankrah) Hill. The improvements are not only to upgrade the playing experience but also to attract both national and international events to the university.

“We will organize many training camps to help develop the skills of those interested,” Lukaire said, emphasizing their commitment to nurturing talent and growing the sport at UCU.

The Federation of Disc Golf Uganda has provided a few instructors and equipment to support the training, helping to ensure a smooth introduction of the sport to the university community since the Oct.5 launch with the USA-based, Christian-focused Eagles Wings Disc Golf group. 

Israel Muwanguzi, the coordinator of Disc Golf in Uganda, said as a federation, they will continue to monitor progress and provide support whenever needed.

“When we organize tournaments, the UCU disc golf course will be one of the venues,” he said. “This will keep players active and engaged throughout.”

He says disc golf is a simple sport to learn and play. Instead of hitting a ball with a club as is the case with golf, in disc golf, players toss a plastic disc at a basket rather than a hole.

Muwanguzi notes that disc golf has significant environmental benefits, making it an asset to any community. Unlike traditional sports, which frequently require substantial infrastructure, disc golf can be played in natural settings with little damage. The courses make use of existing landscapes, helping to preserve green spaces.

Muwanguzi adds that while disc golf has been played for over 50 years in the world, it will celebrate its second anniversary in Uganda in December this year. UCU is now the fourth site in the country to have a disc golf course, following courses at Ndejje University and other locations in Katosi and Bundibugyo.

Muwanguzi said that as more universities join, the next big step will be to compete in inter-university games. 

In their attempts to promote the sport to various institutions and communities, Muwanguzi acknowledges their collaboration with several partners, including the Professional Disc Golf Association, the global governing body for the sport, the Paul McBeth Foundation and the USA-based Eagles Disc Golf Club. 

These organizations have all supported Disc Golf Uganda in developing courses, including at the UCU main campus.

Sam Welikhe, a second-year ICT student at UCU, expressed eagerness to explore and learn about the new sport, stating that he would like to participate in the game once the activities get underway.

Bimbona Sulphina, a first-year mass communication student at UCU, also expressed interest in participating in the new sport, saying, “If I start learning this game now, I could become an expert in the future.”