Uganda Christian University’s School of Business marked a proud chapter in its growing reputation for applied learning after a team of UCU students tied for first place at the 2025 National Students’ Statistics Symposium, held at the university’s Nkoyoyo Hall, Main Campus, in Mukono.

The symposium brought together over 350 participants, including students, lecturers, and professionals from universities across Uganda, for a day of competition, collaboration, and reflection on the role of statistics in addressing real-world challenges.

The highlight of the event was the Data Visualization Showcase, in which teams from UCU, Makerere University, Makerere University Business School (MUBS), and Kyambogo University competed to demonstrate the power of data in solving pressing problems. The UCU team — Segawa Elvis William, Daniel Magero Mugulo, and Ndagire Catherine Tronellah — presented a real-time early-warning system for conflict across Africa, earning a joint first-place finish with 81 points.

The project stood out not only for its technical quality but for its alignment with UCU’s broader mission of nurturing graduates who can apply their skills to serve society. The team’s work demonstrated that statistics, when rooted in purpose, can be a powerful tool for peace and development.

Beyond the Competition

The day extended well beyond academic competition. Participants took part in a tree-planting exercise alongside officials from the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), and students from across the country shared in a celebratory moment that reflected the collaborative spirit of the event.

Speaking at the symposium, Dean of the School of Business Mr. Vincent Kisenyi reminded students that Africa’s story is one of resilience, and encouraged them to see their academic work as part of that larger narrative.

The symposium also created lasting connections for UCU students. Mentorship engagements with UBOS and the Judiciary have since translated into internship opportunities and research funding that continue to benefit the university community.

A Lasting Impact

Months on, the influence of the symposium is still felt across the School of Business. The event has helped shape how the university approaches the teaching of Data Science and Economics, reinforcing the principle that statistics should serve the pursuit of a just, peaceful, and prosperous society.

For the students who represented UCU and those who continue to walk the same halls, the 2025 symposium stands as both a milestone and an invitation, to keep innovating, keep asking the difficult questions, and keep using data to contribute to a better Africa.