By Jessica Sabano
Uganda Christian University (UCU) has urged its newest graduates to uphold integrity, faith and excellence as they embark on their professional journeys, challenging them to become ethical leaders who will transform society through service and Christian values.
The call was made during the university’s 27th graduation ceremony at its main campus in Mukono, where 1,274 students graduated with degrees and diplomas in various disciplines.
Addressing graduates, parents, lecturers and invited guests, Chairperson of the University Council, Prof. Alfred Olwa, said graduation should not be viewed as the end of academic pursuit but as the beginning of a lifetime of responsibility, leadership and service to humanity.
“Today marks the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunities, responsibilities and challenges,” Prof. Olwa said. “The modern world demands not only intellectual competence but also ethical leadership, compassion and courage.”
He urged graduates to remember that their education at a Christian institution comes with a greater responsibility to uphold values that inspire confidence and bring positive change to their communities.
Prof. Olwa challenged the graduates to reject corruption, embrace justice and use their knowledge and skills to address society’s challenges.
“We need professionals who refuse corruption, entrepreneurs who create opportunities, educators who inspire hope, and leaders who seek justice and peace,” he said.
Quoting Matthew 5:16, he encouraged the graduates to let their light shine through good works and become ambassadors of Christ in business, government, healthcare, education, technology and other sectors.
He also expressed appreciation to parents, guardians, sponsors, lecturers and university staff whose support enabled the graduates to complete their studies, while reaffirming UCU’s commitment to delivering quality education grounded in research, innovation and Christian values.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi congratulated the graduates on reaching an important milestone, describing the ceremony as a celebration of perseverance, resilience and academic excellence.
“We celebrate 1,274 graduates today, comprising 698 women (55 per cent) and 576 men (45 per cent). Among them are 102 First Class graduates,” he said.
He reminded graduates that academic qualifications alone are not enough to guarantee success, emphasising that integrity, faithful service and commitment to others remain the true measure of achievement.
“As you join the global community, remember that true success is measured by your service to others, your integrity in leadership and your faithfulness in every endeavour you pursue,” Prof. Mushengyezi said.
Church of Uganda Archbishop Dr. Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu challenged the graduates to protect the reputation of their alma mater through exemplary conduct wherever they go.
“The choices you make, the conduct you exhibit and the character you carry will either adorn or tarnish the name of this great institution,” he said.
Former UCU Chancellor and Guest of Honour Dr. Henry Luke Orombi also urged the graduates to remain steadfast in their Christian faith and committed to serving humanity.
Drawing inspiration from biblical teaching, Orombi encouraged them to become builders of stronger communities and positive change.
“Wherever you go, be people who build and not destroy,” he said.
The ceremony also celebrated outstanding academic achievement. Of the 102 First Class graduates, 60 were women while 42 were men, highlighting the continued strong academic performance of female students at the university.
Don Acheng emerged as the overall best student after graduating with a Bachelor of Procurement and Logistics Management with an outstanding Grade Point Average (GPA) of 4.91.
Marvin Tumusiime was recognised as the best-performing male graduate with a GPA of 4.85 in Bachelor of Business Administration, while Emmanuel Nsubuga was named the top science student after earning a Bachelor of Science in Data Science and Analytics with a GPA of 4.79.
As celebrations concluded, university leaders reminded the graduates that their greatest contribution to society will not simply be the degrees they earned, but the integrity, humility, faith and excellence they demonstrate throughout their personal and professional lives.