KAMPALA, Uganda — Kampala International University (KIU) will mark its 30th Graduation and Awards Ceremony on Saturday, November 23, 2024, with a total of 2,276 students graduands in various disciplines.
The ceremony will be held under the theme of excellence and innovation in higher education.
The graduating class will include 1,016 male and 1,260 female students – and of the total graduands, 1,048 are from science-based courses, while 1,228 pursued humanities.
when contacted the KIU Vice Chancellor Professor Muhammed Ngoma expressed gratitude to all who have contributed to the success of the graduands, including parents, guardians, university staff, and sponsors.
He acknowledged the continuous support from the Board of Trustees, chaired by Al-Hajj Dr. Hassan Basajjabalaba, as well as strategic partnerships with the Government of Uganda and various ministries.
Professor Ngoma said KIU’s dedication to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education.
“In line with the government’s strategic direction, KIU has heavily invested in STEM courses. Our Western Campus stands as a testament to this commitment, offering programs in Engineering, Agriculture, Pathology, Ophthalmology, Orthopedic Surgery, and Emergency Medicine.”
He highlighted the university’s recognition as the second-best institution in Uganda and the top private university in East Africa. According to university rankings, KIU is the best private university in Uganda and second to Makerere.
“Our vision is to make KIU the benchmark for research and innovation in the region,” he said, adding that the establishment of grassroots research structures would boost publications and groundbreaking innovations.
The Vice Chancellor celebrated the achievements of KIU students and faculty on both national and international stages. Notable accomplishments included:
• Pharmacy student Omara Tonny’s recognition as the second-best globally and Africa’s top performer in the Phytomedicines Challenge in Indonesia.
• Students from the School of Mathematics and Computing earning second place in the 2024 WordPress competition for a web application connecting farmers to customers.
• KIU’s second-place finish in the National Karate Competition.
Accordingly, Ngoma said infrastructure and capacity-building efforts, such as the accreditation of engineering programs, completion of the Western Campus library, and introduction of industry-expert engagements.
“We are committed to digitizing and internationalizing the university, with over 20 countries represented in our student and staff population,” he added.
23 Years of Impact
In a statement Dr. Al-Hajj Hassan Basajjabalaba, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, notes an inspiring message focusing on KIU’s journey since its founding in 2001.
“Inspired by the dream of transforming higher education in Africa, KIU has stayed true to its vision of preparing students for the world of work and an inclusive society,” he said.
Basajjabalaba recounted the university’s achievements, particularly the establishment of the KIU Medical School in 2002, a pioneering move among private universities in East Africa.
“Today, our Medical School is the largest, best-equipped, and most hands-on in Uganda,” he said.
The Chairman highlights the success stories of alumni like Dr. Kikomeko Joachim, an oncology physician in the Netherlands and president of the Uganda-Netherlands Business Convention.
Basajjabalaba also commended the KIU Teaching Hospital, a 600-bed facility serving as a referral hospital for Western Uganda.
“Our innovative clinical rotation programs provide students with robust practical exposure, making KIU medical graduates exceptionally hands-on.”
Reflecting on KIU’s upcoming 25th anniversary, he expressed gratitude to stakeholders, including regulators such as the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE).
“Their guidance and tough love have been instrumental in inspiring continuous improvement,” he said.
Looking ahead, Basajjabalaba outlined plans to expand access to quality higher education in the East African Community and beyond.
“Our focus is on consolidating research, innovation, and community engagement. We aim to transform the Western Campus into a hub of excellence in health sciences and engineering.”
He added that “KIU will always be your alma mater. Use the knowledge and skills you have acquired to live impactful lives. Through diligence, professionalism, and innovation, keep exploring the heights.”
The graduation list can be accessed here https://kiu.ac.ug/graduation-list.php?graduationId=9&type=client
