Meet the Ultimate University Quiz finalists
From long-awaited dreams to debut brilliance, here’s what drives the faces behind the two strongest teams of the season.
The winner of Season Three will take home sh25m worth of equipment, plus laptops and cash prizes for each participant and coach. (Photos by Miriam Namutebi)
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As the curtain rises on the Season Three finale of the Ultimate University Quiz, the spotlight turns to the contenders powering Uganda Christian University (UCU) and Ndejje University into the championship showdown.
This year’s quiz is supported by Vision Group and powered by Net Studios Africa, with sponsorship from Bank of Uganda, Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Capital Markets Authority, and Crystal Mineral Water.
From long-awaited dreams to debut brilliance, here’s what drives the faces behind the two strongest teams of the season, bankrolled by major sponsor the Bank of Uganda, others.
PHILIP KAMUKAMA – UCU
Bachelor of Laws, Year 2
“I had always wanted to take part ever since I got to know of the quiz when UCU came second in Season One. I tried joining the team in Season Two but didn’t qualify. That only pushed me to improve more, and when Season Three came, I grabbed the opportunity; this time, I made it.”
Phillip Kamukama, Bachelor of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering, Year 3.
His top moments?
“The semi-final game was one of my favourites. The previous games had been really tight, but that one gave us a range that reduced the pressure.”
Kamukama’s favourite category of questions was Science and Technology.
Away from the quiz, Kamukama enjoys solving puzzles, playing guitar, soccer, and watching series.
As for returning next season: “If needs must. But it would also be great to give other people an opportunity.”
TIMOTHY KISEMBO – UCU
Bachelor of Laws, Year 2
“I wanted to join in Season Two, but the school selected better students at the time. This year, I finally made it. The fact that it’s sponsored by Bank of Uganda and CMA, and aligns with my interest in corporate and commercial law, made it the perfect opportunity.”
Timothy Kisembo, Bachelor of Laws, Year 2.
Kisembo said his most dramatic moment came in the quarterfinals:
“The game against Kyambogo was nerve-cracking. Two tie-breakers. It really showed God was with us throughout the competition.”
His favourite categories span finance, economics, and general knowledge.
“Finance and Wealth in Round Four in the final, Economics in Round One, and General Knowledge in Round Two against Lira because it had economics in it.”
Kisembo spends his free time running his YouTube channel, CCP Digest, where he creates content on business stories and legal developments in Africa.
When asked whether he will be back for season 4, he replied, “Time will tell.”
DAVIS LAKICA – NDEJJE UNIVERSITY
Bachelor of Civil Engineering, Year 3
“What triggered my decision was simple: I immediately recognised the University Quiz as the perfect arena for me. I don’t just like being informed; I have a broad base of knowledge, and this competition is the ideal stage to display it and test myself against the best. It wasn’t a choice; it felt like a calling.”
His standout moment was earning Ndejje a historic finals spot in their debut season.
Davis Lakica, Year 3, Bachelor of Civil Engineering.
“My absolute favourite moment was clinching our spot in the final. The elimination rounds were pure adrenaline. We thank God for His grace and our coaches for their incredible support.”
Lakica’s Favourite category was General Knowledge.
“It demanded that we draw from a wide spectrum of subjects.”
In his free time, Lakica watches documentaries, reads, researches, and plays soccer.
“I actually look forward to coming back next season. This is an experience I want to relive.”
MARK KIPROP – NDEJJE UNIVERSITY
Bachelor of Sustainable Agriculture & Extension, Year 2
“I joined because I had participated in similar competitions in high school, so I wanted to try again and see how I could contribute.”
His highlight moments came early and late.
“Winning against Bugema University in our first game gave us confidence as debutants. Another big moment was beating Busitema to reach the finals. Being finalists in our first season felt special.”
Not surprisingly, his favourite category was Agriculture.
Mark Kiprop, Bachelor of Sustainable Agriculture and Extension, Year 2.
“At the quarterfinals against Soroti University, Agriculture was the first category, and by the end of that round, we were leading; that meant a lot since my teammates trusted me with it.”
Kiprop describes himself as someone always learning:
“My phone is ever in my hands, trying to know more about everything that catches my interest.”
He promised to return in the next season.
FLAVIA NAKIRIJJA – NDEJJE UNIVERSITY
Bachelor of Accounting & Finance, Year 3
“I have a passion for knowledge, and I wanted to extend it beyond the classroom and learn new things.”
Her best memories revolve around teamwork.
“My favourite moments have been the team bonding, discussing answers, encouraging each other, and celebrating the small wins.”
Flavia Nakirijja, Year 3, Bachelor of Accounting and Finance.
Flavia’s favourite category was General Knowledge because it covered a wide range of topics that kept her thinking creatively.
In her free time, she watches documentaries, quizzes, and educational videos to broaden her knowledge.
On returning next season, “I would love to. This has been a wonderful journey.”