By Irene Best Nyapendi
The Uganda Studies Program (USP), run by Uganda Christian University (UCU), was formed with the expectation that the semester-long offering for North American students would survive on strong partnerships. 

Twenty years later, the bond for the partnership that was envisaged has  become stronger with the program registering milestones. The latest of the milestones was the recent visit to UCU by 21 representatives from 11 USA Christian universities and colleges that are affiliated to the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities (CCCU). 

The spring 2024 visit aimed to strengthen partnerships, explore more opportunities for collaboration and give the United States faculty a feel of the experience that American students go through during the USP program at UCU. USP offers an opportunity for students to engage with the local culture and people and to experience contemporary realities in Uganda. Through classes, internships, and homestays, students experience authentic cross-cultural immersion.

The USP social work students and their UCU counterparts often have regular meetings during the semester, facilitated by USP social work coordinator, Nazjè Mansfield , and Kasule Kibirige, the head of UCU’s social work department. 

The meetings are intended to help American social work students to experience the culturally-embedded nature of their discipline, discussing ethical dilemmas and differing obligations in individual-based versus community-based societies.

The late May visit to UCU included representatives from Bethel University (Minnesota), Calvin University (Michigan), Grove City College (Pennsylvania), Liberty University (Virginia), Messiah University (Pennsylvania), Missouri Baptist University, Palm Beach Atlantic University (Florida), Westmont College (California) and Wheaton College (Illinois).

UCU’s membership in CCCU dates back to 2002, when the university became an international affiliate. Although CCCU ceased coordinating study-abroad programs in 2020, individual Christian universities in the United States continue to maintain partnerships.

Mark Bartels, who launched USP at UCU 20 years ago and also serves as the Executive Director of the Uganda Partners nonprofit, said: “The visit was organized by UCU and USP, and it’s because of the CCCU that these relationships exist.”

UCU’s Vice Chancellor, Assoc. Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, often attends the annual conference for all CCCU presidents in Washington, D.C.

During the 2023 CCCU Presidents’ Annual Conference, Mushengyezi met with the CCCU President, Dr. Shirley Hoogstra, and other university presidents who send study-abroad students to UCU.

Bartels also expressed hope for potential collaboration beyond USP, acknowledging that they take time to develop and highlighted the benefits of potential partnerships.

“While partnership development is time consuming, when they happen, there are multiple benefits,” Bartels said. “They provide opportunities for connection, helping institutions grow through staff exchanges, benefiting both UCU and the sending institution.”

Eric Michael Washington, a Professor of History at Calvin University, shared his impressions of UCU during his first visit to Uganda and his fifth trip to Africa.

“I love the students’ dress code, it communicates that education is a serious proposition, and you should take it seriously,” said Washington, who was awarded Professor of the Year at his university in 2018. “It’s evident through UCU students that while it’s important to study hard, you should also dress in a way that reflects Christian values and the seriousness of your work.”

Washington also expressed admiration for UCU’s comprehensive degree programs, including PhDs, which are not offered at Calvin University.

As a professor, Washington was interested in learning about USP and exploring opportunities for his students to participate. 

He was impressed by the flexibility of the USP, noting that it can accommodate students from various disciplines, not just social work, promising to recruit more students for the exchange program.

Paul C. Kemeny, a Professor of Religion and Humanities at Grove City College, said the impressions of UCU exceeded his expectations. 

“My impression of UCU, after reading on its website, showed that it is a strong institution, but being here makes me realize it’s even stronger than I had imagined,” he said. “It’s not just about the size of the campus, but the university’s commitment to advancing the Christian mission and preparing the students to live meaningful lives that glorify the Lord.”

Kemeny said both UCU and Grove City College have a wide range of majors and required Bible courses. However, he also acknowledged the differences such as size.  UCU is a larger university than Grove City College. 

He said his college offers two-week travel courses that allow students to travel to foreign countries. 

Diane Krusemark, the Registrar at Wheaton College, Chicago, said the visit to UCU also was her first to Africa. She expressed delight in the local Ugandan cuisine, including green bananas and ground nut stew. 

Krusemark described the 150-year-old Wheaton College as flat and with indoor buildings and a student union center that serves as a hub for activities. Her visit was motivated by Wheaton College’s desire to become a “School of Record” for USP, which would allow them to consider courses taken by students at UCU. 

A School of Record is a United States-accredited institution that awards credits for courses or programs taken by students at non-U.S.-accredited institutions or through independent program providers collaborating with U.S.-accredited institutions for coursework taken abroad.

Sherita Washington, a Professor of Social Work from Calvin University, was impressed by the students she met, noting that their wit, love for Christ, and professionalism was evident. She expressed appreciation for the Christian aspect of UCU and the students’ bold expression of their faith. Her visit aimed to explore USP and establish a partnership for her department. 

“I had the chance to meet some students and share a meal with them,” she noted.

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.

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.

By Irene Best Nyapendi
A week to the International Labor Day celebration on May 1, 2024, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi received a phone call informing him that the national medal awards committee had vetted and selected him among the people to receive an award. 

“When I received the call informing me that I was among the medal awardees, I was overwhelmed with joy and emotion,” the Uganda Christian University (UCU) Vice Chancellor  said. 

The Diamond Jubilee Medal, which he was awarded at the national celebrations in Fort Portal City, is reserved for people who have made remarkable achievements in leadership in public and private sectors. On that day, Prof. Mushengyezi was among 57 other people who were honored with various medals. The Office of the President has a system of recognizing and rewarding Ugandans who have distinguished themselves in service to the nation with outstanding acts of achievement and heroism. 

UCU Vice Chancellor, A great achiever of humble beginnings

Overwhelmed with joy and gratitude for the honor, Prof. Mushengyezi reflected on his humble beginnings, growing up in a modest rural family where his late father didn’t attend school at all, and his mother stopped in Primary Two. 

He narrated an incident at the age of 11

when he was severely ill and he couldn’t attend school. He was referred to Atapara Mission Hospital in northern Uganda, which was run by Christian missionaries. The medical personnel assured his mother that the facility was the best place to treat his severe condition.

“When we got to the hospital, the doctors examined me and told my mother that if she had not brought me in, I wouldn’t have lived beyond 48 hours,” he said. “When the national medal was pinned on my jacket that morning, I reflected on how far God had brought me. The young boy who was about to die in Primary Five was now receiving a national medal, and this thought evoked emotions in me.”

He wished his late parents had witnessed this moment.

According to Mushengyezi, the medal is a gift from God and a vote of confidence in his diligent service to humanity, and to Makerere and UCU. He acknowledged their role in elevating him to the position of Vice Chancellor that he holds today. 

“This medal is a vote of confidence in me, but also a vote of confidence in our university,” Mushengyezi said during an interview with Uganda Partners in his office at the UCU Main Campus in Mukono. 

“I share the medal with UCU because I am sure I was noticed because of my current position at the institution,” he said. “I also dedicate it to my late mother and my wife who have been a great source of prayer support.”

UCU Vice Chancellor’s Contribution to the education sector

Mushengyezi has dedicated 35 years to the education sector in Uganda, first as a secondary school teacher at Mbarara High School in western Uganda in 1989. He returned to school and made further academic progress, from a Bachelor of Arts degree at Makerere University where he graduated with First Class honors in 1996, to a Doctorate from the University of Connecticut in the USA in 2007. He rose through the ranks at a fast pace, becoming an Assistant Lecturer, Lecturer, Senior Lecturer and Head of Department, and Associate Professor and Faculty Dean at Makerere University, before joining UCU in 2020 as Vice Chancellor. 

When he came to UCU in 2020 at the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic, he spearheaded drastic measures to ensure continuity of learning, shifting the university from in-person learning to online studies and assessment. This was a tall order since staff and students had little prior experience with this pedagogical model. His efforts made UCU an exemplary model for online learning in Uganda, attracting study visits from many universities.

As Vice Chancellor, Mushengyezi has led UCU through challenging times financially. He implemented innovative measures to ensure continuity of learning, and with the support of the University Council, he pushed through reforms that enabled the university to cut costs, close unviable units and academic programs, and save significant funds that have been channeled to infrastructure development, staff welfare, digitizing operations, and improving efficiency in service delivery. Under his leadership, UCU has achieved significant milestones in a short time, including purchasing new property and constructing a new block at Kampala Campus without borrowing from the bank. In 2024, he led the Management team to roll out a seven-year Campus Transformation Initiative, with a drive to elevate UCU campuses to international standards in all aspects of university life.

Throughout his career in the education sector at Makerere, Prof. Mushengyezi won and coordinated many research grants and managed partnerships with several universities and international agencies. Before he left Makerere, he and the Dean of Social Sciences (Prof. Andrew State) had just won a $800,000 grant from the Mellon Foundation to establish a Centre of Excellence in Research, Teaching and Learning at the university. He was part of a network of university programs worldwide, including the Norwegian Program for Capacity Development in Higher Education and Research for Development (NORHED), the African Humanities Program funded by the American Council of Learned Societies (ACLS), the International Fellowships Program (IFP) of the Ford Foundation, among others.

His efforts also secured a large grant from the UK’s Department for International Development (DFID) to train teachers to write bilingual books for primary school students under the Universal Primary Education (UPE) program by the Government of Uganda. The project equipped many Primary Schools with reading materials in mother tongue and English in Lira, Alebtong, Gulu, and Iganga Districts. He also initiated several academic modules to teach literature and media for young people at university.

Through Mushengyezi’s passion for community development, he led a team that founded Franciscan Investment Co-operative Society in 2010, a financial institution based at St. Francis Chapel Makerere that grew to 2,877 members and a portfolio of Shs. 26 billion ($6,936,498) by December 2023. While he was a Dean of the School of Languages, Literature and Communication at Makerere University, he founded a staff savings association called Tushirikiane, which has grown to about Shs.1 billion ($266,788) in savings. These financial institutions have transformed the lives of many families and contributed to the government’s programme of eradicating poverty.

“These are things I did out of passion to contribute to the community’s transformation. I did not imagine that because of such engagements I would one day merit nomination for such a distinguished national award,” the UCU Vice Chancellor said.  “I extend my gratitude to the President of Uganda, and all individuals who were involved in the nomination and vetting process for this national medal.”. 

Mushengyezi encourages others to never give up: “Never allow any adversity to kill your vision in life; sometimes life is not a straight line. I had to first pursue a diploma course, become a secondary school teacher and then go to university later. Some things require patience, focus and hard work.”

A Vice Chancellor of a university serves as the chief academic, financial and administrative officer of the institution. He or she advances the university’s mission and vision and ensures compliance with the legal requirements and expectations of the Government of Uganda and its organs. Prof. Mushengyezi is one man who is certainly serving this calling with passion and commitment.

He is married to Patience Rubabinda Mushengyezi and they have four children. They have also raised and supported the education of 14 other young people in their family, and these are now serving the nation in various sectors of the economy.