KIU, Western Campus - On Saturday, June 13th, 2026, Kampala International University (KIU) proudly hosted its 33rd graduation ceremony at the Western Campus (WC) in Ishaka–Bushenyi District, where 1,844 graduands were conferred degrees under the theme “Fostering Sustainable Innovations and Future?Ready Graduates through Competency?Based Education.”

The dignified Chancellor’s procession set the tone for a day that celebrated academic excellence, highlighted by 101 First Class degrees, and showcased diversity across disciplines — 55.8% male and 41.2% female, with 52.6% in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and 47.4% in the Humanities. As the third graduation held at the WC, the ceremony marked a significant milestone in KIU’s growing influence in higher education and its commitment to expanding access beyond Kampala.

Addressing the gathering, Vice Chancellor Prof. Muhammed Ngoma reaffirmed KIU’s commitment to Competency?Based Education and Training. “Our graduates are not only academically sound but also industry?ready and innovative,” he stressed.

With conviction, Prof. Ngoma appealed to government to preserve the traditional system of medical training, emphasizing that internship should follow graduation rather than being integrated into the university program.

Reflecting on the significance of the day, Hon. Micheal Mawanda Maranga, Chairperson University Council, emphasized its deeper meaning. “Today is not only a day of celebration, but also a day of reflection; a moment to recognize the dedication, resilience, and commitment that has brought our graduands to this defining achievement,” he said, urging them to carry forward the same spirit into their professional lives.

Adding to the momentum, Al Hajj Dr. Hassan Basajjabalaba, Chairman of KIU’s Board of Trustees, expressed pride in the strides made in postgraduate medical education. He highlighted KIU’s remarkable research output, noting, “This year, KIU has recorded more than 3,500 research publications, with approximately half appearing in high-impact journals. These achievements have strengthened our international rankings and reputation as one of Africa’s leading research institutions.”

He further announced that since inception, KIU has offered over 15,000 scholarships, and moving forward, the university is committing to 1,000 scholarships annually in Uganda.

Chancellor Prof. Yunus Mgaya offered a forward?looking message, drawing attention to the graduation theme and its relevance to the future. “The world you are entering today presents both opportunities and challenges. The future will demand continuous learning, adaptability, and resilience,” he reminded the graduands.

Speaking at the ceremony, H.E Nusura Tiperu Omar, Uganda’s Ambassador to Turkey, commended KIU graduates for their competence and discipline. “Graduates from this university have demonstrated competence, especially while serving Ugandans in various sectors. Medical students from KIU have gone beyond the call of duty, assisting during emergencies and accidents — setting an example for others to emulate,” she observed.

Representing the Guest of Honour, H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Rt. Hon. Dr. Crispus Walter Kiyonga, the Second Deputy Prime Minister of Uganda and Deputy Leader of Government Business in Parliament, praised KIU’s expansion from a single campus to three, including one in Tanzania. He reminded the graduands that education is both a privilege and a responsibility, declaring:

“Society expects you to use the knowledge and skills you have acquired to uplift your families and contribute to national development. You are called upon to become responsible citizens, ethical professionals, innovative thinkers, and agents of positive change.”

The ceremony also celebrated outstanding academic achievements. From the Humanities, Julius Karamira emerged as the overall best performer with a CGPA of 4.87, closely followed by Jidu Osman Mohamed Kuliman with 4.86. In STEM, Choda Raphael Daniel was recognized as the best performer with a CGPA of 4.85. In addition, 13 PhD graduates were honoured, some of whom advanced through the KIU Staff Development Scheme, now standing as doctors, researchers, lecturers, and leaders who have elevated KIU’s reputation globally.

The ceremony was not only a celebration of academic milestones but also a reaffirmation of KIU’s mission to nurture future?ready graduates. With resilience, innovation, and excellence, KIU continues to shape leaders who will transform Uganda and beyond.