The Archbishop of Church of Uganda and Chancellor of Uganda Christian University (UCU), The Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, has urged graduates to embrace peace building, integrity, and servant leadership as they enter the world of work and leadership. He made the call today while presiding over the 26th Graduation Ceremony (Part 3) of UCU held at Bishop Barham University College (BBUC), Kabale.
The graduation ceremony, graced by the Guest of Honour, Eng. Reuben Tumwebaze Byaruhanga, the Managing Director of Uganda Clays Limited, saw 353 students, including 228 males (65%) and 125 females (35%), graduate in various academic disciplines including Masters, Bachelor’s Degrees, and Diplomas.
The late Rt. Rev. Dr. George William Tibeesigwa, who served as the fourth Bishop of Ankole Diocese from 2007 to 2010, former Provincial Secretary of the Church of Uganda, and the first Principal of Bishop Barham University College from 2002 to 2007, was honoured posthumously for his visionary leadership, integrity, and excellence.
Speaking against the backdrop of Uganda’s upcoming election season, Archbishop Kaziimba reminded the graduates and the wider UCU community of their responsibility as ambassadors of peace, justice, and reconciliation. He charged them to speak words that heal, not divide, and to promote unity rather than hatred.
Drawing inspiration from Nehemiah 2:20, he encouraged the graduates to approach their future with resilience, courage, and a commitment to rebuilding their communities.
“Like Nehemiah, you have built something meaningful, brick by brick, through prayer, discipline, and resilience. May that same spirit propel you as you step into your next chapter to rebuild communities, restore hope, and lead with integrity,” Archbishop Kaziimba said.
The Chief Guest, Eng. Reuben Tumwebaze encouraged the graduates to embrace innovation in a world that is increasingly complex and rapidly changing. He urged them to think critically about carbon intelligence, including carbon analysis, carbon accounting, and carbon sustainability; virtual intelligence, focusing on professional communication, virtual etiquette, and digital mentorship; and artificial intelligence proficiency, which continues to transform how people live and work.
He emphasized integrity in workplaces, especially in environments with limited supervision such as remote work, and cautioned graduates to avoid gender stereotypes in the job market. He further highlighted the need for men and women who are “mothers and fathers of innovation,” using logic and reason to apply God’s Word in ways that make the world a better place.
Representing the University Vice Chancellor, Canon Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Rev. Prof. John Kitayimbwa, noted that several UCU staff members are currently undertaking further studies in various disciplines.
He said capacity development is central to the university’s strategic direction, and UCU prides itself on being a leader in research. He added that many staff members have recently received cash prizes and awards for outstanding research, noting that in academia “you either publish or perish.” He also highlighted the success of the University Transformation Initiative, which has made UCU and its constituent colleges dustless, paperless, and environmentally friendly.
The Bishop of Kigezi Diocese, Rt. Rev. Gaddie Akanjuna, who serves as Chairman of the University College Governing Council, charged graduates to uphold integrity, humility, servant leadership, and excellence wherever they go. He urged them to be role models with the core values of UCU at heart, reminding them not to fear humble beginnings because great things often start small.
The College Principal, Dr. Alice Tumwesigye, reaffirmed that UCU BBUC remains a leading example in academic excellence and prides itself on producing graduates who are spiritually grounded. She noted that knowledge at BBUC is not only taught but lived through servanthood, integrity, and spiritual formation. She also highlighted BBUC as one of the most beautiful and environmentally friendly campuses in Uganda and emphasized the university’s great strides in science education.
The Provincial Secretary of the Church of Uganda, Rev. Canon William Ongeng, who is also a member of the UCU University Council serving on the planning board, attended the graduation ceremony.
