Uganda Martyrs University passes out 1523 graduands

By Mathias Mazinga

The 21st ceremony of Uganda Martyrs’ University, Nkozi was on Thursday held at the University’s main campus, in Mpigi district, with a call on government to exempt the University from some taxes.

Delivering his speech during the function, the Chancellor of the University, Archbishop John Baptist Odama said:

“We request government to consider waiving taxes for us, especially on building materials. We don’t have another University like this one. So, help us to develop it.”

Engineer Byabagambi, centre, greets Pamella Akora, the best Master of Architecture graduand, as Archbishop Odama, left, looks on. Photo/Mathias Mazinga

The minister of works and transport, Engineer John Byabagambi, who was the chief guest, asked the academic planners at Uganda Martyrs’ University, Nkozi, to design courses that empower the students with practical and innovative skills. He later asked the graduands to be disciplined and honest, in order to be successful in the field of work and also, to protect the reputation of their University.

The students that graduated with a Masters in Development Studies celebrate their victory. Photo/Mathias Mazinga

“The image of any University depends on the conduct and work ethics of its staff and students. You should thus conduct your selves well. Also seize every opportunity that comes your way, to progress in your respective professions,” Byabagambi said.

The Vice-Chancellor, Fr. Prof. John Chrysostom Maviiri re-affirmed the University’s commitment to uphold excellency and high standard quality services based on the values of the Catholic Church. Maviiri later thanked government for tarmacking the road from Kayabwe to the University.

Prof. Maviiri, Cardinal Wamala, Archbishop Odama and  Bishop Wanok during mass. Photo/Mathias Mazinga

A total of 1523 students, of which 659 were female, were awarded Certificates, Diplomas, Bachelors and Masters Degrees in disciplines like Diplomacy, Governance, Agriculture, Business Administration, Education, Health Sciences, Development Studies, Medicine, Architecture and ICT. Students who excelled in their respective disciplines were given cash-prizes.

Nkozi University Cultural Troupe entertains guests. Photo/Mathias Mazinga

What the graduands say

Pamella Akora (Masters, Architecture)

I intend to make a difference in sustainable design. I also feel the passion to design more public places.

Dorothy Nalubega (Bachelors, Local Governance)

I have been a secretary at Wakiso District. I aspire to become a district CAO.

Pius Michael Buwembo (Masters, Public Health)

I intend to sensitise mothers, especially in rural areas about maternal health issues. Today 438 out of 100,000 mothers die in labour. This is unacceptable.

Joseph Wasswa (Master, Public Health)

I want to see that all people have healthy lives, regardless of who they are, or where they come from.

Nancy Yapchekwel (Bachelors, Development Studies)

I want to do a Masters Degree immediately. The field is so competitive.

Patience Faith Akello (BA, Development Studies)

I am happy I have won the cash-prize for the best dissertation. I am now going to look for a job.

Olive Lomokol (Masters, Sustainable Peace/Conflict Management)

I want to get involved in peace-building projects with UN.

Dr. Aidah Kenseko (Masters, General Surgery)

I want to specialise in Urology, the study of male reproductive systems.

Kawother Kakiika (Bachelors, Financial Mathematics)

I want to promote investment banking.

Stephen Joseph Mpagi (Masters, Architecture)

I intend to set up my own firm. But I also have intentions to pursue further studies.