Bishop Ssebaggala installed as new chancellor of Avance International University
Ssebaggala's vision is of an institution that leads in innovation hubs, cutting-edge laboratories, and entrepreneurship incubators; a university that attracts the best scholars and the most creative students; a university whose research outputs influence policy and practice on a national and global scale.
Retired Bishop James William Ssebaggala takes oath guided by Grade One Magistrate Winifred Kwagala during his installation as chancellor of Avance International University at the university campus in Nabweru, Kampala, September 25, 2025. (Credit: Francis Emorut)
A cake was cut during the celebration. (Credit: Francis Emorut) Newly installed Avance International University Chancellor Ssebaggala poses for a group photo with university top management. (Credit: Francis Emorut)
KAMPALA - The retired Bishop of Mukono Diocese, Rt. Rev. James William Ssebaggala, has been installed as the new chancellor of Avance International University.
He took the administrative oath administered by Grade One Magistrate Winifred Kwagala of Kira Chief Magistrate Court, at the University headquarters in Nabweru, a Kampala suburb, on Thursday (September 25).
The new titular head of the university pledged loyalty and to steer the university to greater heights in the field of research and innovation.
'Beacon of innovation'
Ssebaggala's vision is of an institution that leads in innovation hubs, cutting-edge laboratories, and entrepreneurship incubators; a university that attracts the best scholars and the most creative students; a university whose research outputs influence policy and practice on a national and global scale.
The new chancellor also envisions a university which serves humanity; where the innovations uplift the farmer in the field, the teacher in the classroom, the doctor in the rural clinic, the entrepreneur in the marketplace, and the ordinary citizen seeking a better life.
"I therefore call upon each one of you — administrators, faculty, students, alumni, partners, and friends — to join me in this journey. Let us together make this institution a beacon of innovation, a powerhouse of research, and a model of excellence in higher education," Ssebaggala said in his acceptance speech.
"It is my hope that this university will become a beacon of intellectual leadership, a hub for innovation, and a partner in national development.
"By prioritizing inquiry, creativity, and application, we will not only strengthen our academic profile but also affirm the enduring relevance of the university in a rapidly evolving world."
Ssebaggala said that at a time when nations and communities alike are confronted with unprecedented challenges like technological disruptions, climate change, global health concerns, economic uncertainties, and shifting social fabrics, it is imperative for universities to address those challenges.
"Our task is clear: to cultivate a university that not only transmits knowledge, but also generates new knowledge through research, fosters innovation through creativity, and applies scholarship in ways that meaningfully contribute to human flourishing," he said.
"Our focus, therefore, is clear: to be a university where innovation and research are not mere activities, but the very DNA of our institution."
He called upon the university management to remain focused in scaling up innovation and research.
According to Ssebaggala, to nurture innovation, students and faculty are encouraged to think differently, to take risks, and to turn ideas into solutions that address the nation's and the world's greatest challenges.
Graduation
The Chairperson of the University Council, Dr Julius Arinaitwe hailed the new chancellor as one with a distinguished service in ministry, unwavering dedication to moral and social transformation, and a reputation as a leader of wisdom and compassion.
"We are confident that under your stewardship, Avance International University will advance even further in shaping knowledge, driving innovation, and serving with impact," he said.
The chairperson board of directors of the university, Dr. Gracious Ariyo, informed guests that Avance is now fully constituted. He said Chancellor Ssebaggala will preside over the fourth university graduation ceremony scheduled for Friday (September 26).
He pledged financial resources support to the chancellor and his team to drive the university's agenda in the area of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
Vice-Chancellor Joshua Kato Kimata described Ssebaggala as a passionate person with wealth of experience in the education sector.
He said his selection was an answered prayer after the search committee prayed to God.
Ssebaggala was accompanied by his wife Tezirah and his children. Also present was the retired Bishop of Mityana, Dunstan Bukenya, among other dignitaries.