Nkumba University marked its 26th Graduation Ceremony on Saturday, October 26th, 2024, with 1,672 students awarded Degrees, Diplomas, and Certificates.
The atmosphere was charged with a sense of accomplishment and pride as the University Chancellor led graduands into the ceremonial ground, dazzling in their academic regalia. A thunderous applause from friends, families, and university staff signaled a warm welcome.
The event, which coincided with the university’s 30th anniversary, was attended by a galaxy of dignitaries, including Guest of Honor, Hon. Nyombi Thembo, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) Executive Director.
In his congratulatory message, Prof. Jude Lubega, Nkumba University Vice-Chancellor, reminded the graduands that education is the most powerful tool for changing the world. “You made the right choice investing in education, and I am certain this will yield a lifetime of rewards and position you to drive positive change in the world,” he said. “As you join our community of over 50,000 alumni, I urge you to remain committed to the values of excellence, integrity, and service that have defined our university over the past 30 years.”
University Chancellor, PDG Emmanuel Katongole, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of innovation and integrity. “As you move forward, hold fast to the values of integrity, hard work, and selfless service to the benefit of others,” he advised the graduands. “Remember that while today may be a conclusion to one chapter, it is only the beginning of your lifelong journey of learning and making your own contribution to global well-being.”
Hon. Nyombi Thembo, the Guest of Honor, congratulated the graduands and commended Nkumba University for its commitment to academic excellence and innovation. “I am impressed by the university’s efforts to promote research and innovation, particularly in the field of ICT,” he said. “As the UCC Executive Director, I pledge our support to the university’s initiatives in this area, and I am pleased to announce that we will provide 50 brand-new computers to support the WASH Institute.”
The WASH Institute, a pioneering project sponsored by Rotary International, aims to build capacity in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) in Africa. The institute plans to establish a state-of-the-art computer laboratory, which will be equipped with 50 computers pledged by the UCC.
The highlight of the ceremony was the announcement of the best student overall, Komakech Charles, who scored an impressive 4.9 Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) garnered from his degree in Public Health. Overwhelmed with emotion, Komakech said, “I am grateful to God, my family, and the university for supporting me throughout my academic journey.”
Prof. Lubega thanked the graduates, their families, and the university staff for their hard work and dedication. “Today marks the end of one chapter, but it is also the beginning of a new journey,” he said. “I urge you all to remain committed to our core values that have defined our university since inception.”
Nkumba University has been churning out approximately 1,000 graduates every year across various academic disciplines, including PhDs, Master’s, Postgraduate Diplomas, Bachelor’s, Diplomas, and Certificates since its establishment in 1994. In 2022, 2023, and 2024, the University graduated 1,432, 1,857, and 1672, respectively.
