Ndejje University graduated 1,104 students on Friday, 16 October 2026, during its 28th Graduation Ceremony held at the Main Campus in Bombo. The ceremony marked another milestone in the institution’s commitment to quality higher education, research, innovation and societal transformation.

The graduating class comprised 573 males and 531 females, with 48 graduates earning First-Class degrees. Nakirijja Flavia emerged as the overall best student and best female graduate, while Upyem Kevin was recognised as the best male student. Of the 48 First-Class graduates, 30 were male and 18 female.

The ceremony was presided over by the Chief Guest, Mr. Timothy Musoke Ssejjoba, Commissioner for Higher Education at the Ministry of Education and Sports, who represented the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Kedrace Turyagyenda.

In her address, the Vice Chancellor, Rev. Canon Prof. Olivia Nassaka Banja, congratulated the graduands and reflected on the university’s role in shaping their academic and personal journeys. She noted that some of the graduates had joined Ndejje University in 2023, the year she assumed office as Vice Chancellor.

“Over the years, we have shared in the journey of growth, learning, and transformation that has brought us to this important milestone,” she said.

The ceremony also marked a significant step in the university’s academic development, as Mr. Ssejjoba officially commissioned the newly established School of Engineering and Built Environment and the Ndejje University Vocational and Technical Institute.

The School of Engineering and Built Environment evolved from the former Faculty of Engineering and Survey, reflecting the university’s continued growth and commitment to strengthening specialised training. The Vocational and Technical Institute was established to accommodate diploma programmes under the jurisdiction of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Council, in line with national education guidelines.

Strengthening Academic Programmes and Quality Assurance

Prof. Banja reaffirmed the university’s commitment to quality assurance and the implementation of Competence-Based Education and Training (CBET), in accordance with directives from the National Council for Higher Education.

As part of its preparations for the 2027/2028 academic year, the university had reviewed curricula across its schools and seven faculties to ensure that its academic programmes remain relevant, responsive and aligned with evolving educational and industry needs.

The establishment of the School of Engineering and Built Environment and the Vocational and Technical Institute further demonstrates Ndejje University’s commitment to providing specialised training that equips graduates with practical skills and competencies for the world of work.

Advancing Research, Innovation and International Partnerships

Ndejje University continues to strengthen its research profile through strategic collaborations and international partnerships. In June 2026, the university cohosted an international academic conference with Nkumba University, bringing together more than 300 academics and participants through physical and online engagements.

The conference proceedings were published in the Ndejje University Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies, contributing to knowledge sharing and the advancement of interdisciplinary research.

Building on this collaboration, Ndejje University plans to host another conference in 2027 under the theme, “Digital Transformation and Its Impact across Business and Industry to Manage Climate Change.”

The Vice Chancellor also highlighted a three-year European Union-supported project aimed at strengthening the university’s teaching and research capacity to develop climate-resilient and green-energy solutions for farming communities. The project is being implemented in partnership with Soroti University, the Research and Education Agency, the University of Pavia in Italy and the Polytechnic Institute of Porto in Portugal.

The first phase, with technical support from the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM), focused on building staff capacity in areas such as grant management, scientific writing and policy briefs.

In addition, the German Government, through the organisation Coworkers, has supported the university with technical expertise. Among the experts is Mr. Olaf Berthold, who is assisting in the implementation of agroforestry initiatives.

These partnerships reflect the university’s commitment to research that responds to contemporary challenges while contributing to sustainable development and community transformation.

Promoting Talent, Student Welfare and Entrepreneurship

Ndejje University continues to invest in student talent and welfare as part of its commitment to holistic education. During the year, the university awarded 130 sports bursaries to economically disadvantaged athletes competing in 16 sporting disciplines.

Its sports teams are preparing to defend the Eastern African Universities sports title in December, as they seek to extend their record to nine consecutive victories.

Beyond sports, the university continues to nurture intellectual excellence and innovation. Ndejje University was the first runner-up in the previous year’s National University Quiz organised by Vision Group.

On student welfare, Prof. Banja reported that accommodation facilities had been remodelled and the university’s Health Centre III strengthened through the addition of staff and medicines to improve healthcare services for students and the wider university community.

The Office of the Dean of Students had also introduced an entrepreneurship empowerment programme through which students showcase and sell their products during business weeks held each semester. The initiative provides students with opportunities to develop entrepreneurial skills, explore business ideas and gain practical experience beyond the classroom.

Chapel Construction Project Makes Progress

The university’s Chapel Construction Project continues to make significant progress, with Section A, the multi-purpose hall, having reached the roofing stage.

Prof. Banja called on members of the university community, alumni, partners and well-wishers to support the project as the institution works towards establishing a dedicated spiritual home for worship, fellowship and community engagement.

She invited the public to a fundraising dinner and alumni engagement event scheduled for 20 November 2026 at the Kampala Campus.

The project reflects Ndejje University’s Christian foundation and its commitment to nurturing students academically, spiritually and socially.

Graduates Urged to Move Forward with Faith and Purpose

Drawing from the ceremony’s theme based on Isaiah 43:19, Prof. Banja encouraged the graduands to embrace the future with faith, courage and a clear sense of purpose as they transition into the next chapter of their lives.

She urged them to remain connected to the institution through the Ndejje University Alumni Association, emphasising that graduation marked the beginning of a lifelong relationship with their alma mater.

“Ndejje University is your family, and you will always remain part of the Ndejje family,” she said.

The Vice Chancellor also paid tribute to the late Maama Maria Prean, Founder of Vision for Africa and a sponsor of students at Ndejje University. She remembered other members of the university community and its partners who had passed away, acknowledging their contributions to the institution and its mission.

As the 1,104 graduates embark on new opportunities in their respective fields, Ndejje University remains committed to producing graduates equipped with knowledge, practical skills, Christian values and a sense of responsibility to contribute meaningfully to society.

The 28th Graduation Ceremony therefore celebrated not only academic achievement but also the university’s continued progress in academic development, research, student welfare, partnerships and community transformation.