‘UCU has given me an Identity’

UCU

Mr. Peter Kiwumulo, a seasoned lecturer at Uganda Christian University’s (UCU) School of Social Sciences, has been an integral part of the institution since 2011. With a wealth of experience in teaching and community leadership, he has made a significant impact on the lives of numerous students.

Born and raised in Buikwe District, Mr. Kiwumulo has served in the Local Government as a councilor for Ngogwe sub county in Buikwe from 2001 to 2005. Before joining UCU, he worked as a part-time lecturer at Makerere University, Kampala Uganda for two years.

Mr. Kiwumulo was drawn to UCU’s serene environment, Christian background, and proximity to his home. He appreciates the university’s commitment to excellence and its impact on the community.

He attributes UCU’s uniqueness to its facilities, library, peaceful environment, and ICT services.

Mr. Kiwumulo’s teaching approach is centered around student-centered learning, encouraging students to research, present, and engage in peer learning.

His passion for teaching is evident in his words: “I feel happiest when I am before a class, especially when students seem to comprehend what I am talking about.”

Many students have passed through Mr. Kiwumulo’s hands, and he feels that it is incredibly fulfilling to see his former students succeed.

Some of his former students have been helpful in his life. He recalls a particular instance when he was at the Uganda Passport Office, and a student recognized him, called him over, was able to quicken his passport application process, and even made the payments for it.

“Many students have passed through my hands, and I feel a sense of pride and joy when I find them in prominent offices, and they call me by name,” said Mr. Kiwumulo.

Mr. Kiwumulo has witnessed significant infrastructural developments at UCU over the past decade, including the construction of new buildings and the introduction of online learning. He has also seen an increase in colleagues pursuing PhDs, which he believes is a testament to the university’s commitment to academic excellence.

“I have seen most of my colleagues graduate with PHDs which was not very common then,” Mr. Kiwumulo said.

Mr. Kiwumulo is currently focused on soft skills training, which he believes is essential for students’ success. He emphasizes the importance of soft skills, such as emotional intelligence, personal branding, and time management.

As his time for retirement gets closer, he plans to dedicate his time to offering soft skills training. He also hopes to continue sharing his knowledge and skills with students even after his retirement.

Mr. Kiwumulo has also started mentoring retired professionals through the Uganda Professional Senior Citizens Network.

“Working with colleagues and friends, we have started something called Uganda Professional Senior Citizens Network, where we aim to train and empower retired professionals to be more useful by helping them write their experiences and pass on their knowledge to the next generation,” said Mr. Kiwumulo.

He expresses his gratitude to UCU’s founding management for creating an institution that has given him a platform to share his knowledge and skills. He also thanks his colleagues for their support and camaraderie.

“UCU has not only employed me, but has given me a sense of belonging, and an identity,” he said.

In recognition of his dedicated service, Mr. Kiwumulo received an award recognizing him for the 10 years of service at UCU.

Mr. Kiwumulo is a proud father of four daughters, with his firstborn being a UCU alumni.

Compiled by: Irene Best Nyapendi

Edited by: Harriet Adong, Director Communications and Public Relations – Vice Chancellor’s Division