In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic curfews and shutdowns, Uganda Christian University (UCU) devised a strategy to help students pay tuition. That strategy, which is still in effect, is called the 10K campaign with 10K referring to a donation of 10,000 shillings or $2.50 American. 

“The whole world was struggling,” UCU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi recalled of the years 2020 and 2021. “Here, with employment closed off, it was especially hard for students to continue their education even with our stepped-up, on-line learning. We thought that an appeal for a little could yield a lot.” 

It did. 

In May 2022, the campaign was launched by Archbishop His Grace Stephen Kazimba Mugalu, who also is the chancellor for the University. By the summer of 2024, more than 100 students had benefited from the 10K campaign. 

Approximately 15,000 people contributed 160 million shillings ($42,686) to make that happen. To date, student recipients are from the faculties and schools in law, journalism, engineering, computer science, public health, social science and business.  

In addition to traditional and social media appeals and a Go Fund Me page, the 10K initiative engaged in an auction, a running/athletic event, three garage/yard sales, a coffee-and-paint activity, a comedy event and birthday pledges. 

“For the sales, we collected items from throughout the Mukono and Kampala communities as well as from students and staff,” said Dorothy Tushemereirwe, fundraising consultant, and the facilitator of the campaign. “They donated kitchenware, toys, books, clothing and other articles that we sold at reasonable prices to raise funds.”

The coffee-and-paint event was a collaborative with the UCU Coffee Club and UCU

art and visual programs. Students served coffee and guided novice painters who paid sh30,000 ($8 American) for a cup of coffee and a painting on canvas. 

UCU Appreciation stories are many

Mukhaye Mercy, a recent graduate of the UCU School of Journalism, Media and Communication, was on the verge of missing her exams with a tuition balance of 3.6 million shillings ($960 American). UCU has a policy that students can’t take exams if fees aren’t paid. The 10K helped diminish the balance. 

“I would like to thank God for the 10K campaign,” she said.  “I am sure I would have missed exams and gotten a dead year if it wasn’t for the campaign.”

Byishimo Ronald, now a fourth-year student in civil engineering, says the funding assistance “came at a critical time when I needed support for top-up of my tuition, at the last minute.” He added, “I cleared my tuition and performed well, better than the previous semesters.”

The pandemic is over but the financial need isn’t. 

While UCU administration is discussing whether the project should evolve to something else, the tuition boost campaign is housed under the development office beneath the office of the Vice Chancellor. The donors in East Africa can wire money to a UCU Stanbic bank account –9030005916673 in the name of Uganda Christian University or they can make direct deposits on the fundraising line, which is +256-776-999-490. 

Americans wishing to contribute can use the God Fund Me link at https://www.gofundme.com/f/needy-university-students.

By Kefa Senoga
Following a recently signed partnership agreement between Uganda Christian University (UCU) Vice Chancellor, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, and Graham Yoko, the CEO of the Accelerated Education Enterprise (AEE) in Durban, South Africa, UCU is set to launch a study program designed to train teachers for schools following the Accelerated Christian Education (ACE) Curriculum.

According to Dr. Mary Kagoire, the Dean of UCU School of Education, UCU signed the MoU with AEE because the latter manages the ACE curriculum in Africa, including Uganda.

“Institutions throughout Africa that implement the ACE curriculum receive their teaching and learning materials, as well as support, from AEE,” Kagoire explained.

AEE offers Christian education that inspires faith and guides children towards a meaningful relationship with Christ, with the intention of children being secure in their identity and better equipped to face the challenges of the modern world.

Kagoire said the ACE curriculum is a personalized system of instruction, where the learners are given instruction materials they use to study at their own pace. The instruction materials have integrated biblical values..

AEE has been providing Christian education solutions to schools and homeschools since 1983 through globally-recognized curricula and education solutions tailored to Africa’s unique needs. It seeks to empower and impact Africa by delivering access to world-class Christian education solutions that are innovative and relevant to the continent.

According to Kagoire, every topic a child learns in the ACE curriculum has a related Bible verse. Being a university founded on Christian principles, AEE found it in a better position to support the faith-based program. 

The implementation of the collaboration between the two entities will commence once AEE trains UCU teaching staff on how to instruct the teachers or facilitators of the ACE curriculum. After the training, expected by early 2025, UCU will start promoting the ACE-training diploma program they are set to design, before submission to the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) for accreditation.

“We are also exploring the possibility of starting continuous professional training programs whereby in case of any adjustments or changes, we can keep on training the ACE teachers,” Kagoire added, noting that a working committee had been established to actualize the Memorandum of Understanding between UCU and AEE.

The diploma course will be available to already trained teachers, as well as individuals passionate about teaching.

“We want the teachers or experts in different skills because all we are giving them are the different pedagogical skills,” Kagoire explained, noting that the partnership comes as a significant step for UCU because it will be the first university to offer the program in Africa. And the university seeks to offer services to Uganda and the whole of Africa, especially through online classes. However, Kagoire said for that to happen, they will need support in terms of computers and the necessary software for online classes. 

UCU Set to Revolutionize Christian Education with ACE Curriculum

According to Kagoire, the number of schools partaking in the ACE curriculum is increasing because many parents are interested in their children receiving a biblical foundation in their education. Uganda is among the more than 20 countries in the sub-Saharan Africa with the ACE program. Currently, 67 schools are under the ACE program in the country.

There is an increase in demand for ACE schools, especially among many of the church schools, including All Saints Cathedral School in Kampala, which is now an ACE school.

ACE runs from pre-school up to grade 12 and AEE oversees the testing and assessment of the learners enrolled in the curriculum. However, in Uganda, there is an arrangement in place where the Uganda National Examinations Board does the “process of equalization.”

Kagoire further remarked: “Now that they have handed the bit of training and developing of facilitators to us, we shall see a lot of potential in growth.” 

By Irene Best Nyapendi
For seven years, starting this year, Uganda Christian University (UCU) will be striving to transform its face through digitization, infrastructure refurbishment and greening the campuses. To achieve this initiative that seeks to improve the student experience, the university also will pay attention to improving the staff motivation to enable employees to become agents of transformation.  

According to UCU Vice Chancellor Assoc. Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, the project, named the Campus Transformation Initiative 2024-2030, seeks to bring to life the vision of the founders of the university.

Speaking at the project launch in late May, Mushengyezi explained that the seven-year timeline is significant, drawing inspiration from biblical themes of perfection, completion and abundance. This signature initiative formed part of the report card that Mushengyezi gave to the university stakeholders during the Vice Chancellor’s address at the UCU graduation on July 5.

“God created the world in seven days and it was perfect, so we are believing in God for a season of perfection of his work here at UCU,” Mushengyezi said in May.

UCU Campus Transformation Initiative at a glance:

1. Digitized Campus Services: UCU aims to leverage technology to enhance the student experience, improve efficiency, and streamline campus operations. This includes the implementation of digital platforms for learning, administration, and communication. “We want to emphasize a digitalized campus, so that our stakeholders can relate with us in a faster and efficient way,” said Mushengyezi.
2. Refurbished Campus Infrastructure: The university plans to renovate and upgrade its facilities to create a conducive learning environment. This includes the construction of new buildings and refurbishment of classrooms, libraries, and other infrastructure. “Some of our buildings have served their time and may have to come down to give room for bigger and better infrastructure,” Mushengyezi explained. “Even the ones we can still use, we want to renovate them so that we can have a conducive environment for our lecturers and students to enjoy.”
3. Paved and Remodeled Walkways and Roads: UCU aims to upgrade its walkways and roads to create a safe and accessible campus environment. This includes paving and remodeling walkways, roads, and parking areas to enhance mobility and accessibility. 
4. Landscaped, Green and Clean Campuses: The university is committed to creating and maintaining a beautiful, green, and sustainable campus. This includes landscaping, planting trees and flowers, and implementing initiatives to keep the campus clean and green. The goal is to create a conducive environment for staff and students, and to make UCU a benchmark for campus transformation globally. 
5. Trained, Equipped, and Motivated Team to Lead the Transformation: UCU is committed to developing a team of highly skilled and dedicated professionals who will drive the transformation process. This team will be equipped with the necessary tools and resources to ensure the initiative’s success.

Students welcome initiative
Ryan Asabo, a year-one student pursuing a Bachelor of Procurement and Logistic Management, expressed joy for the ongoing transformations at UCU. Asabo, who is on a sports bursary at UCU, was drawn to the university due to its promise of academic and sports transformations.

“I’m excited to enjoy some of the transformations, like the paving of the walkways,” he said.”I’m sure many more students will be attracted to UCU because of some of the transformations being undertaken.”

Lillian Akao, a second-year student pursuing Bachelor of Business Administration, has expressed her satisfaction with the ongoing transformations at UCU.  She says the value for her money is evident in the quality of services and facilities provided. She is confident that the transformations will further enhance the UCU experience.

Ruth Rebecca Lamo, a first-year student pursuing a Higher Education Certificate in Arts, finds the university “very attractive” and is thrilled to see the renovations and the five-point plan for the next seven years.

“This initiative will make UCU more competitive not only in Uganda, but also in the region,” said Lamo. “I’m looking forward to pursuing my bachelor’s degree here to experience what the university will be like through the initiative.”

Emmanuel Olelema, a final-year student pursuing Bachelor of Education, commends UCU for its well-planned activities: “I like the five-point plan and the fact that they have already started on implementing it, I now have faith there will be no more dust and mud at UCU,” Olelema said.

Uganda Christian University (UCU) has today, Friday, July 5^th, 2024, graduated a total of 1,160 students at its main campus in Mukono, Kampala during the first part of its 25th Graduation Ceremony. Among the graduates, 538 were male and 622 were female. Of these, 24 students achieved first-class honors, with 14 being female and 11 male.

The 1,160 students graduating with diplomas and degrees today came from disciplines including: Education, Law, Social Work and Social Adminstration, Medicine and Surgery, Dentistry, Business Adminstration, Accounting and Finance, Development Studies, Engineering and Public Administration among others.

Sarah Nsereko emerged as the overall best student with a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.72. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.

Timothy Ddumba, a former UCU Guild President, emerged as the best male student, with a CGPA of 4.64, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology.

The university Chancellor His Grace The Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, thanked the UCU Vice Chancellor and his dedicated staff for their tireless efforts and exemplary leadership. He noted that, it is the commitment of the UCU Vice Chancellor and team around him which has kept the university growing from strength to strength.

Dr. Kaziimba noted that this ceremony marks a significant milestone in the life of UCU graduates who have dedicated years of hard work, dedication, and sacrifice to reach this momentous occasion.

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the graduating class of 2024,” said Dr. Kaziimba. “As you step out into the world, beyond the UCU gates, I encourage you to keep learning because learning is the only thing the mind will never get exhausted of, fear, nor regret.”

He mentioned that today the graduates stand on a face fold of a new chapter in their lives, equipped not only with knowledge and skills but also with values that reflect the philosophy of UCU.

Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, the University Vice Chancellor noted that UCU graduates are known for being different in whatever they do hence they should go and shine in the marketplace.

As he delivered his remarks, the UCU Vice Chancellor congratulated staff members upon their awards and accolades, also mentioning his own Golden Jubilee Medal awarded by the President of the Republic of Uganda for his contribution to the education sector.

Prof. Elizabeth Kizito, Director of Research Partnerships and Innovation, being elected President of the All Africa Horticulture Congress, which will be hosted by UCU in 2028.

Prof. Emily Maratcho, from the School of Journalism, Media, and Communication, being elected Board Chairperson of the African Centre for Media Excellence.

Prof. Angella Napakol, Director of Academic Affairs, being promoted to Associate Professor among others.

Prof. Mushengyezi later took the guests through some of the other achievements UCU has registered in the recent past.

For the sixth year in a row, UCU emerged as the overall “Best Exhibitor” among both public and private universities in Uganda during the National Council for Higher Education Exhibition which was hosted by UCU at its regional college in Mbale.

NCHE recently accredited a PhD in Journalism, Media, and Communication (JMC); a PhD in Development Studies; a PhD in Business Administration; a Master of Arts in African Studies; and a Master of Literature among others.

UCU emerged first runner-up at the 2023 Inter-University games, with six gold medals.

UCU has signed a partnership with Millersville University for student and staff exchanges, joint research, and other activities.

UCU has launched a seven-year campus transformation initiative.

The new Kampala campus building was handed over to UCU by the contractors on May 20th, and construction of parking lots, renovation of buildings, and infrastructural improvements are ongoing at regional campuses.

The UCU “Just for 10k” campaign has raised 167 million Ugandan shillings, supporting over 100 needy students.

UCU has strengthened partnerships with the US and regional based partners, including St. Paul’s University in Kenya, and signed a partnership agreement with Accelerated Christian Education Enterprise in South Africa.

The Faculty of Agricultural Sciences received an Erasmus grant worth 800,000 Euros.

A team led by Dean Dr. Rose Mary Bulayaba received 50 million Uganda shillings through the UCU research fund among other grants.

UCU students of Computer Science were awarded the best pitching team at one of the national hackathon sessions among other achievements.

Prof. Mushengyezi urged all graduates to face the world with the courage and boldness of one who has a vision and purpose in life.

“Pursue your dream relentlessly, and as you do so, demonstrate excellence in word and in deed as a servant leader that UCU has prepared you to be,” said Prof. Mushengyezi.

He also encouraged them to make the most of the knowledge and skills they have acquired while at UCU, their cherished alma mater.

Prof. Daniel Wubah Urged UCU Graduates to Drive Positive Change

Prof. Daniel Asua Wubah, a Ghanaian-born, and the President of Millersville University of Pennsylvania who was the guest of honor at the ceremony, urged graduands to be advocates of positive change in their communities. 

He noted that while it may be tempting to view success solely in terms of personal achievements most important individuals in history are not those who focused solely on their own achievements but rather those who used their talents to make the world a better place.

Prof. Wubah encouraged the graduates not to be anxious, assuring them that their education has provided the skills needed to turn challenges into opportunities.

“Graduates remember you have been prepared to go and change the world,” said Prof. Wubah. “The world needs your expertise, creativity, and commitment to serving others.”

Compiled by: Irene Best Nyapendi

Edited by: Harriet Adong, Consultant at UCU’s Communication and Public Relations Department

Despite increased attention to drug demand reduction in recent years, drug use continues to take a devastating toll. Globally, approximately 210 million people use illicit drugs each year, resulting in almost 200,000 deaths (UNODC, World Drug Report 2011). There remains a significant unmet need for drug use prevention, treatment, care, and support, particularly in developing countries.

The epidemiological transition from communicable diseases to non-communicable diseases, such as drug and substance use, is a public health concern due to high morbidity and mortality rates associated with it.

William Mabuga, a graduate of Uganda Christian University (UCU) with a Master of Public Health, conducted research to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices of secondary school-going adolescents on drug and substance use. The study aimed to provide information to policymakers, program managers, and the District Health Team to control drug and substance use in Kabwohe-Itendero Town Council (KITC), Sheema District.

While studies have been conducted globally, regionally, and nationally, as well as in other districts in Uganda, particularly Kampala, “there is a gap in research on this topic in South Western Uganda,” notes Mabuga in his study aimed to examine the knowledge, attitude, and practices of secondary school adolescents in Sheema District on drug and substance use as a case study for South Western Uganda, where it is reported to be a significant problem (Uganda Police Crime Report, 2011; Uganda Demographic and Health Survey report, Uganda Bureau of Statistics, 2007).

Mabuga’s research employed a cross-sectional study design, using both quantitative and qualitative methods. The total sample size was 132 adolescents from seven secondary schools in KITC. The number of respondents drawn from each school and class was determined by proportion to size. Quantitative data was collected through pre-tested self-administered questionnaires, while qualitative data was collected using pre-tested FGD guides and In-depth Interview guides.

Research Findings:

– Males constituted 67.4% (89/132) of all respondents, with 66.7% (88/132) from rural areas.

– Half of the respondents had inadequate knowledge about drug and substance use.

– Half of the respondents strongly disapproved of drug and substance use, while the other half either only disapproved or did not disapprove of use.

– 36.4% (48/132) of respondents had ever used any of the drugs/substances of concern, including alcohol, tobacco, khat, cannabis, volatile solvents, and unprescribed medicines.

The study found that secondary school adolescents in Kabwohe had inadequate knowledge about drug and substance use, with mixed attitudes and risky behaviors towards use, and 36.4% had ever used drugs/substances of concern.

Mabuga’s Dissertation

Compiled by: Irene Best Nyapendi

Edited by: Jimmy Siyasa

Last year, Uganda Christian University (UCU) celebrated the graduation of its first cohort of students of Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery and Bachelor of Dental Surgery. Next month, the university will graduate the second cohort of the students of the two courses at its 25th graduation. Milestones like these keep pulling more students to the courses and the university. One such group is the new students who joined the UCU School of Medicine as freshers in May. Kefa Senoga recently spoke to them about their early impressions of the school.

Nakakande Joan – ‘spiritual and Christian values’
I am pleased with everything at the UCU School of Medicine. The facilities are excellent, and the environment is conducive for learning. UCU has met my expectations.

One of the things that attracted me to the university is its foundation on Christian principles. Since joining the institution as a student, I have experienced this firsthand. At UCU, we receive a holistic education that seamlessly integrates academic excellence with spiritual growth.

I chose to pursue a course in medicine at UCU over other universities because, as a Christian institution, it offers me a unique opportunity to be shaped into a quality doctor who embodies spiritual and Christian values. Besides, I have interacted with some graduates of the UCU School of Medicine and I noticed that they are spiritually-grounded.

When I enter the medical field, I aim to develop a sustainable healthcare model that addresses the needs of the less privileged. I believe UCU’s strong focus on community engagement, research and interprofessional collaboration will provide the knowledge, skills and the network I need to achieve this goal.

I am particularly interested in oncology and neurology, with a stronger inclination towards oncology because I aspire to make a meaningful impact on the lives of cancer patients and their families. Cancer is a devastating disease that affects millions of people worldwide, and I want to contribute to the efforts to combat it. I am hopeful that the UCU School of Medicine will provide me with a deeper understanding of the biology of cancer, diagnostic and treatment options, and comprehensive patient care.

Tumusiime Ivan – ‘Christ-centered’
During an outreach that students of UCU made to our secondary school, UCU representatives spoke positively about their university. Now, as a new student, I am pleased to say that I have witnessed everything they promised. 

UCU is an excellent university that is Christ-centered and nurtures its students exceptionally well. It instils good morals, a strong work ethic and discipline among its students. There is also a good student-teacher interaction that ensures a better understanding of what the lecturers are teaching.

I strongly believe UCU medical school will shape me into a skilled surgeon who is able to save people’s lives.

Nanteza Agatha Suubi – ‘can be demanding’

I appreciate the facilities and the friendly learning environment at the UCU Medical School, which is why I chose it for my medical studies. Having visited the school before, I fell in love with the place. After joining UCU Medical School, I also came to appreciate its cultural diversity, which provides good exposure.

While medical school can be demanding, I trust that the one at UCU will provide the support needed to manage the challenges. With the resources, facilities and guidance from the school, I am confident that I will achieve my goal of becoming a surgeon.

Mugisha Derrick – ‘expertise of lecturers’
UCU School of Medicine is set up for the students to be able to achieve a high academic excellence; it is strategically located hence making movement easy for the students who are from within Kampala. It also has strong industry connections and job placement records. 

Given the expertise of lecturers, such as Dr. Gerald Tumusiime, who are seasoned medical practitioners, I am confident I will successfully graduate from UCU as a skilled medical professional. I expect to benefit significantly from their wealth of knowledge and experience.

I selected the course of medicine at UCU because the field demands discipline, hard work, a Christ-centered approach and an unwavering dedication. I am confident that UCU embodies these qualities and will nurture me into the future doctor that I aspire to be.

The facilities have met my expectations. However, I’ve noticed that the number of students in the school keeps increasing every intake, which calls for some enhancements. For instance, the dining area needs to be expanded to accommodate the increasing number of students.

Kajuga Natalia Agaba – ‘right place for me’
After I completed my high school examinations, one question that kept ringing in my mind was “What next?” This was invariably met with the response: “I’m going to study human medicine.”

Although my study plan was not yet set, UCU School of Medicine drew my interest the moment I started researching suitable universities. I later discovered that UCU School of Medicine was the right place for me to start my medical journey.

I aspire to be an exceptional medical practitioner with a great understanding of service and faith.

UCU Student Nsubuga Victoria – ‘psychiatry intrigues me’

Since joining UCU, I’ve noticed that it’s an exceptionally well-organized university. This applies not only to the facilities, but also to the staff.

UCU is deeply committed to empowering learners to reach their full potential. It’s here that I’ve realized I can utilize this environment to fulfil my aspirations of becoming the excellent doctor I want to be.

As a new medical student, I am still exploring various specialties. However, psychiatry intrigues me because delving into understanding how people think would be a fascinating journey.