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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In the Media

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

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

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

#Apply2UCU #JoinUCU

Call for Applications for May/ Trinity Intake 2025

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A delegation from Uganda Christian University (UCU) Main Campus, led by Rev. Prof. John Kitayimbwa, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academics, visited Bishop Barham University College (BBUC) in Kabale for a two-day engagement from February 6th to 7th, 2025. Accompanied by Prof. Angela Napakol, Director of Academic Affairs, and Mrs. Doreen Kibuuka Sserunjogi, Assistant Registrar for Senate and Compliance, the team aimed to strengthen capacity and foster collaboration. 

The visit featured productive discussions, strategic engagements, and collaborative initiatives focused on enhancing academics, research, and community outreach. One of the primary objectives of the visit was to deepen academic collaboration between UCU and BBUC. During the visit, Rev. Prof. John Kitayimbwa and the delegation met with BBUC’s senior leadership, including the Principal, University Secretary and Departmental coordinators. 

The discussions centered on sharing knowledge, academic resources, and the exchange of faculty and students. Both institutions expressed their commitment to creating academic exchange programs that would enrich the learning experience for students on both campuses.

Rev. Prof. John Kitayimbwa emphasized the importance of fostering partnerships in higher education, noting that collaboration between Universities across Africa could help tackle some of the continent’s most pressing challenges through research and innovation.

As part of their visit, UCU delegation hosted a series of capacity-building workshops for BBUC staff. These workshops focused on various areas of institutional development, including leadership, governance, and curriculum enhancement. The participants were also given the opportunity to explore the latest advancements in education technology and digital learning, which have become pivotal in shaping the future of higher education.

Rev. Prof. John Kitayimbwa praised the commitment and enthusiasm of BBUC’s leadership in embracing modern educational practices and fostering an environment of continuous improvement. The workshops were highly interactive, and attendees were encouraged to share their experiences and learn from one another.

Both parties agreed to work together to establish funding opportunities and grants to support joint research initiatives, with the aim of encouraging student and faculty involvement in impactful projects.

The visit also included cultural exchange activities, where students and staff from both institutions had the chance to learn about each other’s cultures, traditions, and histories.    .

Rev. Prof. John Kitayimbwa concluded the visit with an inspiring address to institutions, encouraging them to continue nurturing their partnership and pursue excellence in their academic and community oriented endeavors.

“We are not just building bridges between our universities; we are also fostering the spirit of unity and cooperation across Africa. Our shared vision for education and research will play a pivotal role in shaping a better future for our continent,” Rev. Prof. John Kitayimbwa said.

Call for Applications for May/Trinity Intake 2025

By Kefa Senoga (Photos by Andrew Bugembe)

The Rev. Assoc. Prof. John Kitayimbwa, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs at Uganda Christian University, yesterday, February 11, 2025, officially flagged off four students from the UCU School of Law, who will represent Uganda at the prestigious Philip C. Jessup International Moot Court Competition in Washington, D.C.

The four students include Baaraka Abraham Wanyanga (LLB 3)  Namugambe Rebecca (LLB 3), Kylie E. Kukunda (LLB 2) and Stuart Ssemwogerere (LLB 3).

“We are very happy that you people are taking on very well the practical training in your studies,” said Prof Kitayimbwa to the students, who upon whom the UCU community prayed a blessing during the weekly Community Worship Service at the UCU Nkoyoyo Hall.

He encouraged the team to invest in building their professional image, ensuring that their digital footprint can support and defend them when seeking employment opportunities. “If a potential employer searches for your digital footprint, they should find something positive and encouraging,” he said to them.

Additionally, Prof. Kitayimbwa noted that the university is currently pursuing clearance from the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) to roll out doctoral programme in Law. He, further, hinted on the possibility of partnering with the University of Cambridge for postgraduate level training in various disciplines including Law.

UCU Guild President, Samantha Mwesigye, commended the University for the deliberate effort to support students’ training and exposure beyond the classroom and noted that such extra-ordinary opportunities given to students not only nurture their talents but also boost the university’s profile.

This is not UCU’s first success in such competitions. In 2019, the university made history by becoming the first from Uganda to win the African regional rounds of the Jessup Moot Court Competition. Last year, 2024, the UCU moot team emerged overall best team from Uganda and had the best oralist, during the Unwanted Witness Privacy Moot competitions in Nairobi Kenya.

Call for Applications for May/ Trinity Intake 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By: Kefa Senoga

Uganda Christian University (UCU) won the Uganda National Rounds of the Phillip C. Jessup International Moot Court Competition, held at Cavendish University on January 17–18, 2025.

This is not UCU’s first success in such competitions. In 2019, the university became the first from Uganda to win the African Regional Rounds of the Jessup Moot Court Competition.

The winning team this year included Baaraka Abraham Wanyanga (LLB 3), Namugambe Rebecca (LLB 3), Kylie E. Kukunda (LLB 2), and Stuart Ssemwogerere (LLB 3).

They stood out by winning all six rounds and submitting the best legal briefs, called memorials.

Baaraka credited teamwork for their victory. “We used every piece of advice as an opportunity to improve. Long hours of research and practice helped us build confidence,” he said.

The Philip C. Jessup Moot Court Competition is the largest and most important competition of its kind. It brings together law students from over 100 countries to argue cases before a simulated International Court of Justice. To succeed, students need strong legal knowledge, critical thinking, and persuasive arguments.

UCU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi congratulated the team, saying, “This victory shows the hard work and dedication of our students and their coaches. We believe they will represent Uganda proudly in Washington, D.C.”

Team advisor Joel Basoga praised the students’ critical thinking skills. “At UCU, we teach students to question the law and think about how it can improve society,” he said. “This competition required a deep understanding of Public International Law, especially the Law of the Sea, and our team’s ability to think critically made the difference.”

Kylie, a second-year law student, described the experience as both challenging and rewarding. “Time management was very important. There were moments I felt overwhelmed, but I relied on my teammates, coaches, family, and my faith in God,” she said.

The team is now preparing for the international competition, where they will compete with top law students from around the world.

Compiled By: Andrew Bugembe

Edited By: Harriet Adong E Atuyambe

By Irene Best Nyapendi
In 2024, when the electoral body at Uganda Christian University (UCU) called for people to express interest in the institution’s Guild President position, Samantha Akankunda Mwesigye was among those who came forth.

To many, this was no surprise, given Mwesigye’s known interest in politics. In the eventual elections, their faith in the 23-year-old was confirmed when she trounced her opponent, Abaasa Lynn, garnering 62% of the votes. 

The campaigns were familiar terrain for Mwesigye, who has in the past battled similar challenges. As early as primary school, Mwesigye found herself in a spot where she had to go through campaigns in order to be elected the head prefect – the top most leader position for learners in primary schools in Uganda. She was studying at Kampala Parents School.

On November 26, 2024, she was sworn in as the 27th Guild President of UCU main campus in Mukono. Mwesigye said she went into the race to fulfill what she explained as a “calling.” 

“I stood for the presidency because I believe that God was calling me to lead the student body of UCU,” she said in Nkoyoyo Hall, during the swearing-in ceremony held during the last community worship service of the Advent semester.

Mwesigye’s parents – Fred and Enid Mwesigye – were present at the function to witness their daughter take up the leadership position. Ten years ago, when Mwesigye was swearing in as head prefect at Kampala Parents School, again, her parents were present to show solidarity with their daughter. Mr. Mwesigye is Uganda’s ambassador to Tanzania.

“If God is for you, who can be against you?” she said, quoting Romans 8:31, during her victory speech. Mwesigye, a third-year law student at UCU, expressed her gratitude to God and her team for their support.

She said she is passionate about service, and helping the vulnerable, which also explains her choice of course: “I pursued law so that I can be an advocate for others.” 

She admitted that going by the support she got during the campaigns, her victory was just a matter of when, and not if. 

“My team and I are committed to serving the students. Together, we will achieve great things,” she told a fully-packed Nkoyoyo Hall. 

Mwesigye’s platform hinges on four key areas – tuition, security, student life and accountability.

Mwesigye acknowledged that many students face challenges with paying full tuition fees on time. While she did not promise to change the tuition policy at UCU, she vowed to ensure that the guild fund has readily available funds for tuition top-ups. 

To achieve this, she plans to seek an increment in the guild fund’s allocation for tuition support.

She also pledged to lobby for the installation of cameras in halls of residence, in order to provide additional protection to students. 

“Transparency and accountability are essential in any leadership position,” Mwesigye said. “I also plan to meet with students at least twice a semester, to share with them our progress (on the implementation of the platform, and to also listen to their concerns.”

UCU Vice Chancellor Assoc. Prof. Aaron 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 the newly sworn-in leaders.

Mr. Mwesigye, said his daughter has brought joy and excitement to their family.

“As her parents, we are proud of Samantha and we trust she will do great things for UCU,” he said.

As she grew up, she excelled academically, earning a spot at King’s College London (KCL).

“She studied at KCL for one year and later surprised us by refusing to continue as she did not want to be detached from Africa and Uganda,” Mr. Mwesigye said. 

She wanted to stay connected to her roots and to make a difference in her community. 

According to Mr. Mwesigye, his daughter has a big heart and loves helping others. 

Recently, she helped a classmate of hers who was involved in an accident by raising about 2 million UGX. She also lobbied to help out a friend who had tuition challenges. 

From November 2023 to April 2024, Mwesigye represented UCU in the John H. Jackson Moot Court Competition in Kenya. The moot competition was inspired by the dispute resolution system of the World Trade Organization. She is also a co-founder of Afrika’s Future Leaders, a student-led society aimed at transforming the mindset of African youths through thought-provoking discussions.