By Irene Best Nyapendi
In 2022, residents of Karusandara in Kasese, a district in western Uganda, threatened to boycott an election that the Government was organizing. Their reason? The Government had been silent on their plight for a long time. They accused the government of dishonesty, claiming that the people were often misled by “empty promises”, especially during election campaigns.

So, what was their plight?

The residents said that they had been demanding a land title for the 11,475 acres of land they are occupying, protection from wild animals that escape from the Queen Elizabeth National Park and rehabilitation of their roads. And that since none of those was forthcoming, they would not participate in an election to choose a parliamentary representative for the area. 

That 2022 story was brought to light by Idd Basaija, a journalist with Uganda Radio Network. After publishing the initial story, he engaged Uganda’s minister in charge of lands, Judith Nabakooba and continuously followed up on the residents’ demands. 

In Uganda land ownership is handled in two ways like in Great Britain. A buyer may enter a leasehold contract for 49 years or 99 years, with ownership of the land reverting back to the original owner at the end of the contract. Or a buyer may purchase the land in a mailo contract, and it doesn’t revert to the original owner like in the case of a leasehold. This is helpful to know when purchasing and building on land in Uganda. Only 9% of the land in Uganda is mailo land making it very valuable. The registration of each transaction is important when purchasing land so there is a clear title before building on the land.

Basaija’s persistence paid off when the government began processing land titles for the residents of Karusandara, a significant step towards addressing what residents described as “decades of neglect.” Possession of a title for the piece of land someone is occupying gives them added security from land grabbers, something that is common in Uganda.

Basaija, an alumnus of Uganda Christian University (UCU), has dedicated his life to championing social change and amplifying the voices of the marginalized people through his journalism, in order to inspire action from the people who hold positions of power.

In another of Basaija’s many articles that amplify voices of the marginalized, he raised alarm over the many people who were facing starvation in Kasese following the destruction of their gardens by elephants that had strayed from Queen Elizabeth National Park.

One of the farmers said the elephants destroyed about two acres of his garden of potatoes, which he said was the only source of livelihood. Sadly, part of the money that was used in the garden was from a loan he had acquired for farming. 

And he has also had a fair share of challenges in the profession. In 2021, while covering a story about Queen Elizabeth National Park, he published a story that there were people growing marijuana within the park. It is forbidden to grow marijuana in Uganda, unless for medical and other authorized purposes. Rather than enter the park to establish authenticity about the allegations, Basaija relied on peers to provide him information. 

When his editor inquired whether he had personally seen the 100 acres, Basaija, feeling the pressure of the moment, affirmed the claim, despite not having seen the garden. The story was published.

The situation escalated when a team from Uganda Wildlife Authority, the managers of the park, contacted him, demanding that the story be pulled down because it was inaccurate. 

This experience, however, helped him realize the importance of interviewing credible sources and ensuring accuracy of information before publication. 

Basaija draws experience from being a radio presenter, a writer, and an editor, to not only report news, but ignite social change and challenge perceptions in a profession sometimes misunderstood. He is the current bureau chief for Uganda Radio Network (URN) in Kasese, Bundibugyo and Bunyangabu — districts in western Uganda. He has worked at this news agency since January 2020. URN is a Ugandan radio news agency that provides daily ready-to-use news and information for 120 media houses.

“For me, journalism is not about the money,” said Basaija, who graduated from UCU with a Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communication in November 2013. 

Basaija’s articles often feature stories of individuals who are most times not taken seriously, ensuring that their voices are heard and their struggles acknowledged. 

“I never write a story on a social issue without following up with the people responsible.” 

Basaija says his journey into pursuing a journalism course was not as straight as he would have preferred it to be. His first university of choice did not admit him for the course. His second university of choice offered him a course in development studies. But was not where his heart was. It was at that point that he convinced his father, to support him pursue the course at UCU.  

He is passionate about environment and health reporting, having won grants in these areas. His stories on family planning have formed discussions among development partners. He is a media trainer and an advocate for independent journalism.

Currently, Basaija is pursuing a fellowship in Gender Communications at the Aga Khan University Graduate School of Media and Communication in Kenya. He aspires to continue his education by enrolling for an MA in Journalism and Strategic Communication at UCU. 

In addition to his work at URN, Basaija is a commercial farmer. His passion for agriculture blossomed in 2019 while he was searching for a job, leading him to the idea of dairy farming. Currently, he manages both a dairy and poultry farm.

After a rigorous assessment process, the Uganda Christian University (UCU) School of Medicine got General Medical Council (GMC) certification of the United Kingdom. This means that UCU Doctors can sit for the Professional and Linguistic Assessment Board (PLAB) examinations of the United Kingdom, and when they pass PLAB examinations, they can practice medicine in Europe, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates and do their postgraduate training (residency) there.

Our graduates of Medicine will also be recognized by international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO).

UCU is now being evaluated by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG) of the United States of America. Certification will allow our Doctors to sit for United States Medical Licensing Examinations (USMLE).

The above steps are continuing to position UCU graduates to compete favourably on the global market.

By Irene Best Nyapendi
On October 25, 2024, Christy Asiimwe was named the best overall student at the 25th graduation ceremony of Uganda Christian University (UCU). A week later, on November 2, Robinson Asiimwe was recognized as the overall best graduate at the Institute for National Transformation. 

Robinson was pursuing the Oak Seed Executive Leadership Course, an intensive, six-module program specifically designed to cultivate transformational leaders.  Christy was pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Education, where she garnered a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 4.8 out of 5.0. Robinson’s was 4.83. 

Robinson and Christy do not just share a surname. The latter is the daughter of the former. Robinson was full of smiles as he witnessed his daughter get the best overall student award from among more than 1,000 graduates. . 

“I was very happy for my daughter,” he said. “However, I wasn’t surprised to learn that she was the best overall student because she is self-driven, and I believed she would excel.”

At Christy’s graduation, Robinson not only attended the ceremony, but also got a photo opportunity with his daughter and the ceremony’s chief guest, Mr. Graham Yoko, the CEO of Accelerated Education Enterprises, along with UCU council chairperson, Bishop Alfred Olwa. 

Just like the kind of training Robinson just graduated from, while at UCU, the 25-year-old Christy also got training in leadership. As a member of the Honors College, the training Christy received emphasized the tenets of academics, leadership, mentorship and service. The intention of the training is to produce a cadre of leaders who are practical, relevant and innovative.

Peggy Noll, the wife of UCU’s first vice chancellor, Prof. Stephen Noll, was Christy’s mentor during the latter’s time at the Honors College. Writing about her experience with Christy, Peggy Noll expressed her excitement meeting a student who was “serious about her faith as well as her education.”

“Christy’s long-term goals include working in education, possibly curriculum development, and becoming a servant leader in that sphere,” Peggy wrote in the article. 

During a recent interview with Uganda Partners, Christy said she hopes to pursue a master’s degree in curriculum development and education management. With that training, she expects to influence educational policy, and shape a curriculum that is more responsive to the needs of Uganda’s youth.

“I would love to build effective and affordable systems of education because many of the good education systems are not affordable,” she explained. 

To Asiimwe, the accolades she earned at UCU serve as proof that with God, all things are possible. She attributed her success to the university’s supportive staff, excellent facilities, and its emphasis on character development and professionalism. She said the virtues that have been imparted in her have helped prepare her for the marketplace.

Born and raised in Kampala, Christy has been a high achiever and maintained top grades since primary school. She attended City Parents Primary School, Gayaza High School for O’level, and Shekinah Christian International School.

Peter Mugume, a senior lecturer at the UCU School of Education, said Christy was an intelligent, disciplined and punctual student. Even when it rained, she would still be the first student to arrive in class.

“Christy was informed,” he said. “She would consult, and often wrote excellent assignments.”

Mugume said when Christy competed for elective positions as a student leader, he wanted to discourage her from it, thinking it would affect her performance. But it did not.

She was a student leader in the guild government, a class representative, and in charge of religious affairs in the Honors College. She said she was able to juggle her work by strictly adhering to the timetable she set. 

Her secret to academic excellence was by grasping the concepts during lectures, sitting in the front row, and making detailed notes during lectures. 

“I was engaged in so many activities, but I made sure I attended all my lectures so that I could get first-hand information from the lecturer,” Christy said.

Soon after her final exams in September 2024, Asiimwe was employed at Acorns International School, where she had her internship from January to April 2024. 

Christy’s father owns Shekinah International School. Ordinarily, one would expect her to work at that school after university. But that has not been the case. 

“I wanted a different environment, to work under people I am unfamiliar with and to learn to absorb pressure from people who cannot easily favor me,” she said. “That way, I would be better prepared for the world of work, which is not always a bed of roses.”

At the October 25 UCU graduation, Christy was separately awarded as best female student. Dismas Nuwaine was the best male student, having garnered a GPA of 4.79 out of 5.0; he received a Bachelor of Journalism, Media and Communication. 

Today, November 26, 2024, Uganda Christian University’s (UCU) Nkoyoyo hall was filled with excitement as the university officially welcomed its 27th Guild Government. The swearing-in ceremony was a celebration of democracy, thanks to the innovative eChagua platform, where students cast their votes electronically, enabling them to vote from anywhere with internet access.

During the event, Her Excellency Samantha Akankunda Mwesigye, took the oath as UCU’s new Guild President.

She swore to support and defend the constitution of UCU students’ guild, bear true faith and allegiance to the same, and uphold the foundation of the institution.

“I will faithfully discharge the duties of my office with honesty and to the best of my ability, so help me God,” Akankunda swore.

Her fellow elected leaders also pledged to uphold the Guild Constitution and serve the student body with diligence and integrity.

The ceremony was graced by Assoc. Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, the University Vice-Chancellor, who congratulated the new guild leadership, especially Her Excellency Akankunda, highlighting her family legacy in leadership.

As the guild president of the Main Campus, H.E Akankunda is expected to represent UCU on national and international fora in addition to overseeing other Guild Presidents.

In his address, Prof. Mushengyezi encouraged the new leaders to aim for transformational change urging them to focus on making a meaningful impact within the university community.

“Leadership is a calling from God for a reason and a season,” he reminded them.

He also took a moment to express pride in UCU’s peaceful history and address a common question about UCU.

“Some people wonder why there are no strikes at UCU; It is because we collaborate closely with the guild, to manage the university as a team, and find solutions together,” Prof. Mushengyezi said.

This collaboration between the guild and the university management fosters open communication and allows the university to address concerns proactively, creating a peaceful academic environment.

During the event, the alumni presented a 2,000,000 UGX cheque to support the Global 5K campaign. They also contributed 1,000,000 UGX towards UCU Sunday and donated a tourist van to the university, showcasing their commitment to enhancing the UCU community.

UCU Staff Excellency Awards

At the climax of the event, 31 staff members were recognized and awarded for their outstanding service to the university.

During the Staff Excellence Awards dinner, Prof. Mushengyezi emphasized the importance of recognizing hard work and dedication referencing 1 Timothy 5:17.

He acknowledged that while no one is without flaws, the awarded staff’s contributions have been commendable.

“We hope this ceremony inspires you to light the way for others,” Prof. Mushengyezi said.

On behalf of the Cabinet, he expressed pride in their achievements and encouraged them to keep striving for excellence, declaring, “This event marks the first of its kind, and we are proud of you—keep winning.”

Professor Monica Chibita, Dean of the UCU School of Journalism, advised her colleagues not to focus solely on recognition while working, but to appreciate the university’s generosity.

“I want to thank the management for recognizing us as winners. We pledge to continue serving with dedication,” said Deo Musekura, the university driver.

Compiled by: Irene Best Nyapendi and Blessing Twiine

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

On November 15, 2024, Uganda Christian University (UCU) convened the third part of the UCU’s 25^th graduation at Uganda Christian University- Bishop Barham University College (BBUC) at Cathedral Grounds in Rugarama, Kabale.

The event saw a total of 561 students being conferred with diplomas, bachelors, masters, and PhD degrees. Among the graduates were 274 females and 287 males, with three exceptional students achieving first-class honors.

Allen Tayebwa emerged as the overall best performer, with a cumulative grade point of 4.73 in the Bachelor of Social Work and Social Administration program. Notably, Rev. Tumuhimbise Jasper, the Group CEO – Church Commissioners Holding Company Ltd was awarded a Doctor of Philosophy in Education Administration and Management.

The Archbishop, Rev. Dr. Stephen Kazimba Mugalu, who also serves as the Chancellor of the college, emphasized the importance of integrity and service to humanity, calling on the graduates to use their education for the betterment of society.

Dr. Samuel Mugasi, the Executive Director of the National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS), graced the graduation ceremony as the chief guest. He commended the graduates for their hard work in his address but cautioned them against pursuing quick wealth. In addition, he urged them to embrace patience, resilience, and diligence as they enter the competitive job market.

Rt. Rev. Bishop Gadi Akanjuna, the Chairman of the Local Governing Council, encouraged the graduates to place their trust in God and prioritize Him in all their endeavors. “God has everything in store for you,” he reminded them, urging them to pursue their dreams with faith and dedication.

The graduation followed a commissioning service that happened a day before the graduation. During the service, the first-class students received academic excellence awards from the university chancellor.

Compiled by: Simon Turyakira, BBUC Public Relations Assistant

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

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)