On November 22nd, 2024, African Rural University (ARU) marked another milestone in rural transformation as eight Rural Transformation Specialists received their Bachelor’s Degrees in Rural Development at the university’s 10th Graduation Ceremony, held at the Kagadi main campus.
This transformative occasion celebrated the achievements of Ampire Mariam, Atuhairwe Jane, Nakate Claire, Nambuya Dianah, Kobusinge Mawanda, Night Theopista, Osiime Rinnah, and Wakwayorwoth Loyce, who are now poised to lead transformative change within the African context across Uganda and beyond.
The Class of 2024 shone brightly, with Night Theopista earning the distinction of best in class with a stellar CGPA of 4.8, followed by Nambuya Dianah, who secured second place with an impressive CGPA of 4.2.
In his address, the Chancellor of African Rural University, Emeritus Justice Ezekiel Muhanguzi, warmly welcomed the congregation to the 10th Graduation Ceremony of ARU and extended heartfelt congratulations to the graduands for successfully earning their Bachelor’s Degrees in Rural Development.
“Today is your day, a day to reap the rewards of your hard work and dedication,” remarked Emeritus Justice Muhanguzi.
“As you collect your certificates and transcripts, I encourage you to aspire higher. Enroll in advanced courses such as Master’s and Ph.D. programmes. Lifelong learning is essential to stay updated in knowledge and skills. Did you know that learning only truly ends two hours before death?” he challenged the congregation in a thought-provoking question
Emeritus Justice Ezekiel Muhanguzi also extended deep gratitude to the parents, field mentors, guardians, and sponsors, whose support made this achievement possible. He concluded with a profound appeal to the graduates and the university community to uphold the motto of ARU-Awakening the Sleeping Genius in Each of Us.”
The Chancellor further expressed sincere thanks to the Government of Uganda and regulatory body, the National Council for Higher Education, for their steadfast support. He acknowledged ARU’s partners, including the African Food and Peace Foundation, Mustard Seed Trust, and Social Initiatives, for their contributions to the university’s growth and mission.
‘’I commend the University Council led by Prof Samuel Kyamanywa, the Chairman Council, and the University Management led by Dr Mwalimu Musheshe for the wonderful works they are doing in providing governance and leadership at ARU that has led to today’s celebrations. Today we graduate eight more Rural Transformation Specialists that will add to the pool of ARU graduates championing transformation in the country’’
In terms of Progress of ARU, the Chancellor commended ARU for hosting the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) team to provide technical guidance towards charter acquisition.
He also noted that ARU was recognized by Uganda Revenue Authority for compliance and as the best tax payer in the region in 2024.
Additionally, Emeritus Justice Ezekiel Muhanguzi noted that ARU was recognized in June 2024 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Chair for its groundbreaking and unconventional approach to education
The Vice Chancellor Dr. Mwalimu Musheshe Senior Ashoka in his address to the congregation echoed ARU’s transformative education model, which blends 60% theory with 40% practical, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to cause transformative change using the Visionary approach.
‘’ARU has consistently prioritized teaching and learning, embracing the Visionary Approach that emphasizes mastery in creative processes, systems thinking, and sustainable development. Our faculty has ensured that students not only acquire degrees but also the critical thinking to create conditions for the rural people to transform their lives and that of their community. The curriculum integrates experiential learning, digital literacy, and interdisciplinary methods, preparing students to apply these skills within their communities and districts.
We take vast pride in the university’s community engagement efforts. Through outreach programs, partnerships, and service-learning projects, we have worked hand in hand with the local government and communities to foster inclusive, sustainable, and resilient growth. Our students focus on Community Action Planning and Participatory Action Research. Our impact is felt across 34 Sub-Counties in Kagadi, Kibaale and Kakumiro, 20 districts, and four Refugee settlements, where over 57,000 young people have gained knowledge in vocational and entrepreneurial skills, benefiting from education and capacity-building initiatives using the Visionary Approach’’ he stated in his speech
The Guest of Honor Mr. Ssemambo Rashid commended ARU for its unique educational approach, calling it a benchmark for development work. He reminded the congregation that “life is about working for the good of the community.”
Prof. Samuel Kyamanywa, Chairman of the ARU University Council, encouraged the graduands to carry forward ARU’s values of integrity, honesty, and resilience. “Today marks the end of one journey and the beginning of countless others. Your education is a tool to shape lives, transform communities, and uplift the world around you,” he said.
The ceremony culminated in a celebration filled with music, dance, and drama, offering perfect Kodak moments for graduands, their families, and distinguished guests.
Notable attendees included government officials, Paul Mulindwa from Uganda National NGO Forum, ARU Council- Member Patricia Seybold who is also Chairperson of the African Food and Peace Foundation, and Mr. Doug Lockwood, a retired teacher from Maine, USA.
Graduation in pictures
