Nkumba University will hold its 27th Graduation Ceremony on 25th October 2025 at the Main Campus in Entebbe, with close to 2,000 students set to graduate. Among them is Mr. Musasizi Nicklas, a young man whose path from a village grass-thatched house to becoming a professional social worker tells a transformative story.
Born to a peasant farmer, Mr. Musasizi grew up with little more than self-belief and big dreams. “All I had was the conviction that the narrative of my background could be turned around someday,” he recalled. “I knew my story was not the end of it all, but part of the journey to my destination.”
When he joined Nkumba University in 2022, his heart was already set on a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work and Social Administration (BSWSA). “Armed with only admission papers, I carried empathy and a burning desire to uplift others,” he says. “There was no better course than social work, it gave me the platform to be a voice for the voiceless: children, persons with disabilities, and the elderly.”
At Nkumba, he found fertile ground for growth under the School of Social Sciences. He credits Dr. Ann Abaho, the Dean, and Mr. Robert Ssebunya, Head of Department, for nurturing him. “Their guidance and dedication transformed my vision into a tangible path of service,” he said.
Musasizi quickly immersed himself in leadership. Between 2022 and 2024, he served as President of the School of Social Sciences, later leading the Nkumba chapter of the National Association of Social Workers of Uganda (NASWU). He was also Secretary General of the Baganda Nkobazambogo Students Association.
His resilience pushed him further when he contested for Guild President in 2023. Though he did not win, he insists he emerged victorious in spirit. “I was a son of nobody, but I achieved what I once thought impossible. Deep down, I believe I am a winner,” he said.
Through these leadership roles, he spearheaded outreach programmes in Mpigi District, including Bulungi Bwansi activities at Mpigi Hospital and Mpigi Central Market. “These experiences strengthened my empathy and ability to mobilize others for a good cause,” he reflected.
Today, Mr. Musasizi serves as a Social Worker at CoRSU Hospital in Entebbe, where 80 percent of patients are children with disabilities. “This gives me a reason to wake up every day,” he said with pride. “What I do, coordinating referrals, providing counselling, safeguarding patients, and uplifting those in need, wouldn’t have been possible without Nkumba University. The knowledge I gained made me a stronger advocate for inclusion, dignity, and social justice.”
Musasizi appealed to current and prospective students to see Nkumba as more than a university. “Nkumba is a launchpad for leadership, service, mentorship, and transformation,” he said. “Here you are not just a student in a lecture room; you are part of a vibrant community where ideas are nurtured, talents are developed, and leaders are made.”
He pointed to the university’s flexible programs, mentorship culture, and strong alumni network as pillars that give graduates a competitive edge. “Nkumba’s culture builds resilience, critical thinking, innovation, and responsibility,” he added. “It is a place where dreams are nurtured, potentials unlocked, and futures built.”
With the 27th Graduation Ceremony around the corner, Mr. Musasizi shared a heartfelt message. “I extend my gratitude to the administration, lecturers, and fellow students for shaping my path; you made me a man,” he said. “Congratulations to the Nkumba University Class of 2025. The future is yours to shape: lead with integrity, serve with passion, and never stop learning.
Discussion about this post