Uganda Christian University’s Class of 2026 stands out for three major achievements: it produced the highest number of graduates with First-Class honours in the University’s history, women accounted for the majority of graduates and top academic performers, and the institution continued to emphasise character and integrity as key outcomes of higher education.
A total of 1,274 students graduated during the first session of UCU’s 27th Graduation Ceremony held at the main campus in Mukono on Friday, 3 July 2026. The session marked the fourth of the university’s newly introduced graduation ceremonies, when students receive their qualifications promptly after completing their studies.
A Record Number of First-Class Graduates
The Class of 2026 produced 102 First-Class honours graduates; the highest number recorded since the University’s establishment in 1997.
Women accounted for 60 of the First-Class graduates, while men earned 42. The achievement reflects the strong academic performance of students across different programmes and disciplines.
At the top of the graduating class was Don Acheng, who earned a Bachelor of Procurement and Logistics Management with a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 4.91. Marvin Tumsiime was the best-performing male graduate, earning a GPA of 4.85 in the Bachelor of Business Administration programme. Emmanuel Nsubuga emerged as the best science graduate after obtaining a GPA of 4.79 in Data Science and Analytics.
Women Lead in Numbers and Academic Performance
Women made up the majority of the graduating class, accounting for 698 graduates (55%), compared with 576 male graduates (45%).
Beyond representation, women also led in academic achievement, receiving more than half of the First-Class honours awarded during the ceremony. Their performance highlights the increasing participation and success of women in Uganda’s higher education sector.
Education with Character
While celebrating academic achievements, University leaders reminded graduates that career success must be guided by values and a sense of responsibility.
The Chairperson of the University Council, Rt. Rev. Prof. Alfred Olwa described graduation as both a celebration and a responsibility.
“Graduation is much more than the conferral of degrees and diplomas. It is a celebration of resilience, sacrifice, and determination,” Prof. Olwa said. “It also marks the beginning of a new chapter that requires moral courage, ethical leadership, and integrity.”
UCU Vice-Chancellor Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to apply their knowledge in service to others.
“Today we celebrate 1,274 graduates, including 102 First-Class achievers. As you join the global community, remember that true success is measured by your service to others, your integrity in leadership, and your faithfulness in every endeavour,” Prof. Mushengyezi said.
He urged the graduates to uphold the Christian values nurtured at UCU and use their education to contribute positively to society.
Carrying Forward UCU’s Reputation
The 27th graduation ceremony was presided over by Rt. Rev. Dr Henry Luke Orombi, former UCU Chancellor (2004 – 2012), and was attended by university leaders, parents, alumni, and well-wishers. The event also streamed online.
The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Dr Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, challenged graduates to maintain UCU’s reputation by demonstrating discipline, integrity, and excellence in their workplaces and communities.
“Go out and represent Uganda Christian University with discipline, integrity, and excellence,” Archbishop Kaziimba said. “Let your character become your greatest testimony, and use the knowledge you have acquired to serve your communities.”
As the graduates move into different sectors, including business, education, public service, technology, research, ministry, and entrepreneurship, the Class of 2026 will be remembered for its record academic performance, strong female representation, and commitment to values-driven leadership.
How Many Graduation Ceremonies Does UCU Hold Each Year?
Uganda Christian University (UCU) holds three graduation ceremonies annually, in July, October, and December. The multiple ceremonies enable students who complete their academic requirements to receive their qualifications promptly.
