Graduates have been urged to rise above the limitations of their humble origins, stay ambitious, and renew their determination whenever they face life’s challenges.
The call was made on Friday by the Rubanda West Member of Parliament, Mr. Bruce Balaba Kabaasa, while speaking as the chief guest during the 27th graduation ceremony of Bishop Barham University College (BBUC), a constituent college of Uganda Christian University (UCU), held at the Rugarama Cathedral headquarters in Kabale Municipality.
A total of 410 students, including 10 international students, graduated across various academic disciplines, with 10 students recognized for attaining first-class degrees. The ceremony was held under the theme: ‘Renewed, transformational mindset’.
Addressing the congregation, Mr. Kabaasa cautioned the fresh graduates against letting their background dictate their future possibilities, using his personal journey as an example of resilience.
‘Some of you may be tempted to believe that your humble background has already determined your future. Never allow your background to imprison your mind, aspirations, and possibilities. I went through modest schools, but here I am not only as a Member of Parliament, but as a leader with a record of service and achievement in this country,’ Mr. Kabaasa said.
He shared that his career included two decades of uninterrupted service at Makerere University, a journey marked by significant obstacles. He noted that every time he was confronted with challenges, he chose to renew his faith to prepare for the next phase, advising the graduates to adopt the same mindset.
Speaking at the same event, the Principal of Bishop Barham University College, Dr. Alice Jossy Kyobutungi, challenged the graduates to lead with integrity, competence, and faith, drawing inspiration from Matthew 5:14. She reminded them to remain firmly grounded, quoting an African proverb that states when roots are deep, there is no reason to fear the wind.
Dr. Kyobutungi also highlighted several operational hurdles facing the growing institution, including limited academic programs, financial constraints, stiff competition from rival tertiary institutions, and deficits in staffing, infrastructure, accommodation, research funding, and transport.
Despite these setbacks, she assured stakeholders that university management, in partnership with the governing council and UCU administration, remains committed to prudent financial management, accountability, and strategic partnerships to transform these challenges into opportunities for growth. She reiterated BBUC’s goal to build a Christ-centered institution that combines academic excellence with practical skills, research, entrepreneurship, and Christian service.
In his remarks, the Vice Chancellor of Uganda Christian University, Prof. Canon Aaron Mushengyezi, who represented the university chancellor, advised graduates to measure their success by the trust they earn and the lives they impact rather than material wealth or public recognition. He emphasized that Uganda and the wider region require professionals who serve with competence and humility across all sectors, urging the cohort to let their faith shape their conduct and their knowledge inform their decisions.