The Nkumba University H.E Derick Mawanda has taken an unprecedented step to promote transparency and accountability by officially handing over cash prizes to the newly crowned Mr and Miss Nkumba University just days after their victory.
The handover ceremony, held on March 31, 2026, at the Vice Chancellor’s Boardroom, saw the Guild President present the prizes to Pearl Kangume and Emmanuel Gum, who were crowned Miss and Mr Nkumba University, respectively during the pageantry finals held on March 28.
Kangume emerged victorious after outperforming seven contestants to claim the Miss Nkumba University 2026 crown, while Gum secured the Mr Nkumba University title after competing against one other finalist. The duo now assumes the mantle from their predecessors, Desire Nahurira and Moses Kyeyune, who served during the 2025–2026 tenure.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Guild President described the early prize handover as a deliberate leadership decision aimed at ensuring smooth governance transitions while enabling the winners to focus on their ambassadorial roles. “We decided to hand over the prizes immediately to avoid transferring such obligations to the incoming student government. This reduces administrative pressure and allows the winners to concentrate on initiatives that create real impact and promote the image of the university,” he said.
In what university observers described as a break from tradition, the prompt fulfilment of this commitment marks the first time winners have received their prizes almost immediately after their coronation. Student leaders noted that such actions strengthen trust between the student government and the wider university community. “This sets a strong precedent for future leadership. It demonstrates transparency and builds confidence among students and stakeholders that commitments made will be honoured.” said Ayona Patience, a student leader familiar with the process.
Nkumba University’s Mr and Miss pageantry has, over the years, evolved beyond a beauty and popularity contest into a leadership and advocacy platform. Traditionally, the title holders serve as student ambassadors, champion student welfare initiatives, and participate in corporate social responsibility programs within and beyond the university community.
While handing over the prize, the Guild President urged the new title holders to prioritize meaningful impact during their reign. “Your leadership should be defined by impact. Use this platform to initiate projects that benefit the communities you come from and the communities surrounding the university. This is an opportunity to leave a legacy that goes beyond the crown,” he advised.
In their brief remarks, the winners expressed gratitude for the confidence entrusted in them and pledged to use their tenure to advance student causes and community outreach initiatives aligned with the values of the institution.
Founded in 1994, Nkumba University has maintained a strong tradition of student leadership development through co-curricular platforms such as guild leadership and pageantry, which aim to nurture confidence, social responsibility, and public engagement among students.
University stakeholders say the timely recognition of the 2026 pageant winners signals a growing culture of accountability and purposeful student leadership, values they believe will continue to shape the institution’s reputation as a centre for holistic education.