Institute of Petroleum Studies gets first chancellor

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In a landmark event, Court of Appeal judge, Justice Oscar John Kihika, has been installed as the first Chancellor of the Institute of Petroleum Studies Kampala.

During his five-year term, Kihika will play a pivotal role in shaping policy, strengthening academic standards, and ensuring that the institute remains at the forefront of energy education and research.

“We look to the Chancellor for guidance, vision, and the capacity to bring diverse voices together in pursuit of common goals. Under the Chancellor’s stewardship, I have no doubt that the institute will reach even greater heights, deepening our impact both nationally and globally,” said the Executive Director of the Institute, Patrick Ruharuza.

Ruharuza emphasised that becoming a Chancellor requires wisdom, integrity, and statesmanship.

He noted that a Chancellor is not just a ceremonial head, but a guiding light, an ambassador, a beacon of leadership, and a source of inspiration for both present and future generations.

In selecting a Chancellor, Ruharuza said the institute looked for someone whose life and achievements resonate with its values of excellence, service, and innovation.

He highlighted Justice Kihika's impressive background, from his early days as a State Attorney to his leadership as managing partner at a top-tier law firm, and his eminent service at the Court of Appeal.

Justice Oscar John Kihika (right) takes the oath of allegiance as Lady Justice Deepa Verma looks on during the thanksgiving mass at Institute of Petroleum Studies in Muyenga on 21st June 2025.

"Justice Kihika's journey has been shaped by steadfast integrity, dedication to service, and an enduring quest for personal and national advancement, making him an ideal fit for the institution," Ruharuza said.

"Today, in welcoming our first Chancellor, we are not only celebrating leadership; we are ensuring that the torch of vision and integrity continues to burn bright,” explained Ruharuza.

He made the remarks during the thanksgiving Mass for the Chancellor’s installation, held at the Institute of Petroleum Studies in Muyenga on Saturday.

During the ceremony, Lady Justice Deepa Verma administered the oath of allegiance to the incoming Chancellor.

The Mass was presided over by Monsignor Dr Lawrence Ssemusu, who represented the Archbishop of Kampala Archdiocese, His Grace Paul Ssemogerere.

Ruharuza reflected on the institute's future, noting that it faces both opportunities and challenges.

He added that the evolving nature of the global energy landscape, the urgent need for sustainable practices, and the responsibility to train leaders who are both technically competent and ethically grounded require careful consideration.

Kihika, in his response, acknowledged the challenges the institute has navigated and expressed his awareness of the hurdles and opportunities ahead.

“As a first Chancellor, I am keenly aware of the hurdles and challenges that this institution has navigated to arrive at this most certainly gratifying seminal moment. I was a witness, and for a while, part of the governing council before it was granted a licence to operate as a standalone tertiary institution,” explained Kihika.

Kihika said the challenges they face are not insurmountable but are, in fact, opportunities for growth and transformation. Together, he added, they can chart a course that honours their heritage while boldly embracing the future.

According to Kihika, his appointment was not just a culmination but a continuation of serving a community that thrives on intellectual curiosity and the relentless pursuit of innovation and advancement.