By Irene Best Nyapendi
More than sh1.1billion (about US$317,800) has been collected since 2017 when the annual Uganda Christian University (UCU) Sunday was started. Of that amount, sh297,224,648 (about US $81,032) was collected during last year’s UCU Sunday. 

In 2017, the House of Bishops of the Province of the Church of Uganda resolved to designate the last Sunday of September as a UCU Sunday. 

Of the resources collected every year, 15% goes to capacity-building programs for the clergy, 20% caters for tuition support for children of the clergy and the balance is to support infrastructure development in the university. Of the 65% set aside for development of infrastructure in the university’s main campus and at its constituent colleges, UCU Mbale University College (MUC) got sh19,264,180 ($5,252), UCU Bishop Barham University College (BBUC) received sh31,819,651 ($8,675) and UCU Arua Campus received sh12,698,400 ($3,461).

The buildings established for the UCU schools of medicine and dentistry were made possible by the sh300 million (about $79,275) that was collected on the 2018 UCU Sunday. 

UCU Sunday was established to mobilize financial resources to support the university’s projects, especially infrastructure and to raise awareness about the institution. This tradition spans across Uganda, with every Church of Uganda participating.

At this year’s UCU Sunday, celebrated on September 29, 2024, the UCU Chancellor, His Grace the Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, encouraged the congregation to embrace spiritual disciplines of faithfulness and stewardship. 

Preaching at All Saints’ Cathedral, Nakasero in Kampala, on the theme “Characteristics of a Transformed Life”, Kaziimba emphasized that wealth accumulated for selfish purposes is fleeting. Instead, he urged the Christians to always remember to commit (as they are able) resources to the service of God through supporting the church, its ministries and establishments such as “our provincial university, UCU.”

“We do not own what we have; it is all God’s. We are only caretakers. When we give, we honor God’s divine position, provision, and protection,” he said.

The Rev. Canon Eng. Paul Wasswa Ssembiro, the University Chaplain, preached at St. Paul’s Cathedral, Namirembe in Kampala. His preaching was centered on the theme “Conforming to the truth of God’s word and not the patterns of this world” (Romans 12:1-2). 

Mr. David Mugawe, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration, represented UCU at St. Luke’s Church of Uganda, Ntinda in Kampala, where he testified about the impact of the UCU Sunday contributions toward the university’s mandate of training the clergy.

“Through your UCU Sunday contributions, we have so far supported the education of over 40 children of our clergy, until their graduation,” he said. Mugawe added that several infrastructural development projects are ongoing on all UCU campuses, courtesy of the support through the UCU Sunday.

The Rev. Dr. Richard Mulindwa, Manager of the Church Relations Department at UCU, conveyed appreciation to everyone who actively participated and represented the university in diverse churches during the UCU Sunday.

“We deeply appreciate the time, energy, and funds you invested in making the UCU

Sunday engagements a success,” Rev. Mulindwa said. “Your efforts have brought immeasurable value to the university and helped create lasting connections with the church.”

UCU also extends gratitude to its dedicated UCU Sunday ambassadors for their tireless efforts in promoting the university’s vision and mission across various churches.

To support UCU Sunday, donations can be made through Equity Bank, Post Bank, MTN Money, or Airtel Money. 

Equity Bank

Account Name: Uganda Christian University – UCU Sunday Collections

Account Number: 1006201583777   

PostBank   

Account Name: UCU Sunday Collections   

Account Number:  1630037000131    

MTN Mobile Money

*165*80# (Code A20000)

Airtel Money *185*6*2*1# (Code A20000)

American donations can be made through the Uganda Partners Website donation button at https://www.ugandapartners.org/donate/. Put “UCU Sunday” in the comment box.  

UCU Sunday collections since 2017 (UGX):

2017	67,256,250
2018	243,262,336
2019	257,133,805
2020	25,078,854
2021	35,740,200
2022	240,203,260
2023	297,224,648

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)

Uganda Christian University (UCU) has today, Friday, October 25, 2024, celebrated the second part of its 25th Graduation Ceremony at its main campus in Mukono, Kampala. Among the graduates, 673 (57%) are female and 516 (43%) are male. Of these, 60 students achieved first-class honors, with 33 being female and 27 male.

At the ceremony, Christy Asiimwe, a graduate of Bachelor of Arts with Education, was announced the overall best student, scoring a Cumulative Grade Point Average of 4.80 out of 5.0. Dismas Nuwaine was the best male student. Nuwaine, who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication, had a Cumulative Grade Point Average of 4.79 of 5.0. 

Christy Asiimwe commended UCU for the values it has instilled in her and how it has prepared her for the marketplace.

“UCU has taught me to do all things for the glory of God which is one of the university’s core values ‘Christ-centeredness,”

She advised other students to be intentional in their studies and set short-term goals that will help them achieve the long-term goal which can be a first class.

Joshua Gira, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts with Education, praised UCU for its outstanding facilities and supportive learning environment, which enhanced his academic pursuits. He expressed appreciation to UCU for equipping him with the skills, knowledge, values, and a positive attitude towards service.

“UCU has prepared me for the marketplace, I believe that even without a public job, I can create my own opportunities. UCU also strengthened my spiritual life, which will continue to guide me outside the university,” Gira said.

This year’s graduation ceremony has seen UCU introduce new graduation gowns, abandoning the traditional black ones. The introduction of the blue gowns is part of the university’s transformation initiative, aimed at rebranding and enhancing the student experience.

Speaking during the gown unveiling ceremony, Rev. Prof. John Kitayiimbwa explained that the black gowns have been over used by many institutions, including those offering short courses and even kindergarten schools.

According to him, in Uganda the graduation gown has become the most abused symbol of education, noting that one cannot differentiate between a student who has completed university education from one who has received a three-months certificate since they all put on the same gowns.

“We have chosen to be different, thinking about our brand and protecting it. We have chosen to be bold and unique,” he said.

The new gowns feature a primary blue color, complemented by variations that represent different faculties with distinct designs that differentiate between diplomas, degrees, master’s degrees, and PhDs.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, congratulated the graduates and urged them to pursue greater milestones beyond their degrees.

“Congratulations to all our graduating students! UCU has equipped you to be problem solvers, not part of the problem. Go forth, pursue greater milestones, and trust that God will make your dreams a reality,” he said.

He advised the graduates that while the world of work presents many challenges, they are being sent out as leaders, change agents, and ambassadors—vessels through which God will transform communities.

Prof. Mushengyezi announced the appointment of new members to the University Governing Council following the retirement of five members who had completed their full terms.

He also highlighted the university’s ongoing efforts to achieve a world-class status by launching a seven-year campus transformation initiative, the effects of which are already visible on campus.

Some of the ongoing campus transformation initiatives include upgrading and paving Bishop Orombi Road, renovating old buildings, paving parking lots and walkways, and installing multiple outdoor and indoor directional signs, starting with the main campus to ensure convenient navigation.

“Our vision is to transform UCU into one of the most beautiful, clean, orderly, green, and modern campuses in the region, providing a conducive environment for both learners and staff,” he stated.

Prof. Mushengyezi commended the friends of UCU from USA and other countries for supporting students in need and helping them achieve their dreams. He noted that through the UCU Fundraising Initiative, UGX 174,613,621 has been raised, benefiting over 107 students.

He also expressed gratitude towards the UCU faculty, college, and management teams for their efforts in enhancing UCU’s global reputation by winning several research grants, publishing their findings, and building partnerships with reputable institutions.

Rt. Rev. Prof. Alfred Olwa, the Chairperson University Council implored the graduates to go forth, not just as graduates, but as ambassadors of Christ’s love in a broken world.

“May you bring light where there is darkness, hope where there is despair, and love where there is hate. And may you always give glory to the one who has brought you this far,” Prof. Olwa said.

The Chancellor of UCU, the Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, encouraged the graduates to aspire to be servant leaders, emphasizing the importance of humility and serving others.

“Remain humble despite your academic excellence, true power lies in serving others. Be diligent in your work and strive to be exemplary ambassadors of this university,” Dr. Kaziimba said.

He also appealed to the government to fulfill the President’s promise to tarmac Bishop Tucker Road, noting its importance for improved access and the university’s growth.

Dr. Kaziimba thanked all churches for participating in the UCU Sunday activities and urged the congregation to continue supporting the university.

Among the graduates were three PhD recipients: Alfred Wonyaka (PhD in Theology), Annet Musiimenta (PhD in Education Administration and Management), and Ssebyanzi Bonaventure Wasswa (PhD in Education Administration and Management).

Immediately after the graduation ceremony, students could pick up their transcripts and certificates, this is part of the university’s efforts to support graduates’ smooth transition into the workforce.

This graduation ceremony was graced by Mr. Graham Yoko the CEO of Accelerated Education Enterprises (AEE), as the Guest of Honor who commended UCU for being a beautiful university and for the ongoing campus transformation initiative.

Mr. Yoko exhorted the graduands to go out there and be MAD – short for Make A Difference – a difference based on “Your Identity rooted in Christ, your Purpose shaped by the word of God and your Path guided by God’s hands”.

During the graduation ceremony, UCU formalized its partnership agreement with AEE located in Durban, South Africa. AEE is a Christian organization that implements the Accelerated Christian Education (ACE) curriculum in schools across Africa.

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. 

The Uganda Christian University (UCU) Vice Chancellor, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), Mr. David Mugawe are participating in the 20^th Triennial Conference of the International Association of University Presidents (IAUP 2024) in Beijing, China, October 13^th – 15^th, 2024. The UCU delegation is privileged to meet and re-engage with Professor Daniel Wubah, President, Millersville University of Pennsylvania and Guest Speaker at UCU’s 24^th Graduation Public Lecture and Chief Guest at the Graduation Ceremony among other conference participants.

The Conference, themed “AI and the Future of Higher Education” has attracted hundreds of participants from over 50 countries. It is an engaging platform for exploring the dynamic landscape of modern academia. The Conference is offering unparalleled opportunities to share insights and best practices, forge strategic partnerships, and to shape the future of higher education. UCU is actively participating in this conference in line with her Strategic Objective 5: To scale up the ‘UCU E-Campus’ Vision of a Digitised University in Learning, Teaching, Research and Operations.

The rich Conference agenda is composed of inspiring keynote addresses, panel discussions, and interactive sessions led by esteemed educators and innovators from across the globe. The panel discussions are focusing on: Ethical Dimensions of AI, Educational Innovation via AI, Governance in Higher Education with AI, and AI’s Role in Shaping the Future of Education.

The Opening Ceremony was graced by the Secretary General of the United Nations, Mr. Antonio Guterres and UNESCO Assistant Director General for Education Ms. Stefania Giannini.

Compiled by: Irene Best Nyapendi, Writer @UCU

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