Uganda Christian University has renamed its Bishop Tucker Library to the Dunstan Bukenya Library in honour of Bishop Dunstan Kopoliano Bukenya, recognising his foundational role in shaping the institution’s academic and spiritual direction.
The renaming ceremony, held at the university’s main campus in Mukono, was presided over by Vice Chancellor Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi and attended by members of the university leadership, staff, and the Bukenya family.
In his remarks, Prof. Mushengyezi described Bukenya as a visionary and faithful servant whose contribution to Christ-centred education continues to define UCU’s identity.
“In recognition of his enduring service, vision, and contribution to Christian higher education, the UCU Management, the Planning and Development Board, and the University Council found it fitting to honour Bishop Bukenya by naming the theology library after him. It is my honour to join his family today to unveil the Dunstan Bukenya Library at UCU,” said the Vice Chancellor.
Mr. David Mugawe, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration, noted that honouring individuals like Bishop Dunstan Bukenya goes beyond measuring their visible contributions.
“Honouring people like Bishop Dunstan Bukenya is not because we are measuring their efforts while serving here, because we’re not sure of the sacrifices they made, but rather to acknowledge it,” he said.
Bukenya, who was present at the ceremony, delivered an emotional speech reflecting on the university’s early days and its journey.
“I never imagined that what started as a small effort in faith would grow into what UCU is today,” he said. “This honour is not just about me, but about the many people who believed in building an institution grounded in Christian values. Thank you so much,” he said
The newly named Dunstan Bukenya Library is and will always be a key academic resource supporting research and ministerial training. University officials noted that the facility aligns with UCU’s mission of integrating faith and learning.
It is on record that Bukenya served as UCU’s first University Secretary from 1997, playing a central administrative role during its transition from Bishop Tucker Theological College into a chartered university.
Bukenya was also instrumental in establishing UCU’s School of Law in 1998. Despite not having formal legal training, he drafted the initial curriculum. He worked with scholars from Makerere University, University of Dar es Salaam, and the Law Development Centre to develop a programme grounded in Christian ethics and academic excellence.
Compiled By: Andrew Bugembe.