The Uganda Christian University (UCU) School of Social Sciences, in collaboration with Promise International a US-based non-profit organization advocating for basic human rights and supporting children with special needs in Uganda successfully hosted the 2nd Annual Special Needs Congress 2025. The event took place in Nkoyoyo Hall, with a theme centered on “The Church and Special Needs Children Ministry in Uganda.”
This partnership reflects UCU’s commitment to its strong Christian principles, aiming to create a meaningful impact in the lives of children with special needs. The congress sought to promote a more inclusive and compassionate Church that supports individuals with disabilities and their families. It also aimed to advocate for the integration of disability issues into theological education and training, setting a precedent for holistic ministry and outreach.
“I want to thank the UCU School of Social Sciences and Promise International for championing this cause. Through your collaboration, we see a deliberate effort to change the trajectory about special needs children in this country,” noted Prof Aaron Mushengyezi, the Vice Chancellor of UCU.
Prof. Mushengyezi further explained that the dynamics surrounding children with special needs have evolved, highlighting their growing prominence in family and school life. He mentioned that society has come to recognize that children with special needs are equally human, with emotions, and needs, and are also very clever and talented.
Daniel Tulibagenyi, CEO of Promise International shared that, “In 2022, I knocked at the doors of UCU, to see how we could work together, especially within the church, and the Vice Chancellor, Prof Aaron Mushengyezi welcomed us and we signed an M.O.U. UCU has opened its doors wide, which is why we are here today”.
Tulibagenyi’s connection to UCU runs deep, as it is his alma mater. He credited the university with laying the strong foundation that has shaped his life and career. “Helping children with special needs is a powerful way to demonstrate our love for Jesus, as they too are created in the image of God. The Church is meant to be the hope of the world,” he said.
Rev. Andrew David Omona, Dean of the UCU School of Social Sciences, provided a biblical perspective, saying, “Genesis 1:27 reminds us that we are all created in the image of God. Everyone is wonderfully made and bears his image, regardless of their abilities or disabilities.”
Bishop Jackson Fredrick Balwa, the Assistant Bishop of the Diocese of Kampala, emphasizes the importance of addressing the needs of individuals with special needs, particularly children. “God is calling us to advocate for those with special needs. We must work to influence policies that support and uplift them,” he asserts.
Adding a spiritual insight, Bishop Zac Niringiye highlighted that children with disabilities are our teachers of the good news of the kingdom of God because they are the centre of God’s vision of the kingdom of God.
The congress served as a call to action for churches, schools, and communities to embrace inclusivity and support for children with special needs. Through its partnerships and Christian foundation, UCU continues to lead the way in advocating for marginalized groups, offering hope and practical solutions to integrate disability issues into everyday ministry and education.
This year’s congress not only celebrated progress but also laid a stronger foundation for the future, where children with special needs are recognized as valuable contributors to society and reflections of God’s love and grace.
Compiled by: Kefa Senoga
Edited by: Irene Best Nyapendi
