Table of Contents
When was the IUIU 34th Graduation?
Mbale City came alive on Saturday, December 20, 2025, as the Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) hosted its 34th graduation ceremony at the main campus. The event saw a record 2,484 students graduate with certificates, diplomas, undergraduate degrees, and postgraduate qualifications across various disciplines. Vice President Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo was the chief guest, representing President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, and was conferred with an honorary Doctorate Honoris Causa in recognition of her contributions to education, women’s empowerment, and national development.
The ceremony, filled with pomp, cultural performances, and inspiring speeches, underscored IUIU’s evolution into a leading institution fostering academic excellence, gender equity, and societal impact. With women comprising over 50% of the graduates for the seventh consecutive year, the event highlighted the university’s commitment to inclusive education amid Uganda’s broader push for skill-based learning and innovation.
The atmosphere was electric from early morning, with graduates in flowing gowns, proud families, and dignitaries arriving under clear skies. Entertainment by groups like Matali Entertainment added vibrancy, with traditional dances and music setting a celebratory tone. As the academic procession marched in—led by university leadership, faculty, and the graduands—the crowd erupted in cheers, symbolizing tradition, scholarship, and hope for the future. This milestone not only celebrated individual achievements but also spotlighted IUIU’s role in bridging communities across Uganda and beyond, drawing attendees from diverse backgrounds, including international guests.
What is the Islamic University in Uganda, and how did it begin?
The Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) was established in 1988 through a collaborative effort between the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the Government of Uganda. It began operations modestly on February 10, 1988, with just 80 students and two undergraduate programs: a Bachelor of Arts in Islamic Studies and Arabic Language, and a Bachelor of Arts in Education. The main campus in Mbale, situated approximately 222 kilometers northeast of Kampala in the foothills of Mount Elgon, was chosen for its serene environment conducive to learning. Initially funded by the OIC to provide higher education opportunities for English-speaking Muslim communities in Africa, IUIU quickly expanded its mandate to welcome students of all faiths, emphasizing moral, spiritual, and academic development.
The university’s founding was rooted in a vision to address educational gaps in post-colonial Uganda, where access to tertiary education was limited, especially for marginalized groups. Over the years, it has grown into a multi-campus institution with additional sites in Kampala, Kabojja (a females-only campus promoting women’s education), and Arua in the West Nile region. Today, IUIU enrolls over 10,000 students from more than 21 countries, offering over 120 accredited programs in fields such as Islamic studies, education, health sciences, law, business, engineering, and cultural heritage. Its motto, “Bridging Communities,” reflects a commitment to fostering unity through knowledge, with a unique blend of secular and Islamic values shaping its curriculum.
How has IUIU grown over the years?
From its humble beginnings with a handful of students, IUIU has experienced exponential growth, graduating over 45,000 alumni who now contribute to various sectors globally. The university’s enrollment has surged due to strategic expansions, including the establishment of satellite campuses and the introduction of market-driven programs. For instance, the Kabojja Females’ Campus, opened in 1995, has been instrumental in advancing gender equity, providing a safe space for women to pursue higher education.
Infrastructure developments have been pivotal, with recent projects like the newly inaugurated Faculty of Engineering and Technology marking a shift toward STEM education. This faculty, commissioned in the lead-up to the 34th graduation, aims to equip students with skills in civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering, addressing Uganda’s infrastructure needs amid rapid urbanization. University leaders attribute the growth to partnerships with the OIC, the Ugandan government, and international donors, which have funded scholarships, research initiatives, and facility upgrades.
Enrollment trends show a consistent increase, with annual graduations now exceeding 2,000 students. This year’s cohort of 2,484 represents a diverse group, including international students from Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania, and Somalia, underscoring IUIU’s regional influence. The institution has also embraced digital transformation, offering online programs post-COVID-19, which boosted accessibility. Challenges like funding constraints have been met with resilience, positioning IUIU as Uganda’s first private university and a model for faith-based education in Africa.
Who were the key guests at the ceremony?
The 34th graduation drew a distinguished array of guests, adding prestige to the event. Vice President Jessica Alupo, arriving accompanied by Uganda’s Ambassador to Türkiye, Nusura Tiperu, served as the chief guest on behalf of President Museveni. Her presence highlighted the government’s support for higher education. Notably, the Emir of Kano State, Nigeria—His Highness Muhammadu Sanusi II—was among the international dignitaries, symbolizing IUIU’s ties to the broader Islamic world and African leadership.
Other notable attendees included university chancellor Prof. Adnan Muhammad Al-Mazrui, rector Prof. Ismail Simbwa Gyagenda, and academic registrar Dr. Halima Wakabi Akbar. Representatives from the OIC, government ministries, and local leaders from Mbale also graced the occasion. The diverse guest list reflected IUIU’s global outreach, with speeches emphasizing cross-cultural collaboration. Parents, guardians, and alumni filled the venue, creating a vibrant mosaic of support and celebration.
Why did Vice President Jessica Alupo receive an honorary doctorate?
Vice President Jessica Alupo was awarded a Doctorate Honoris Causa in Laws for her exemplary service in education, national development, and women’s empowerment. As a former Minister of Education and Sports from 2011 to 2016, Alupo spearheaded reforms that improved access to schooling, particularly for girls in rural areas. Her military background as a retired Major and her current role as Vice President have seen her advocate for gender equity and youth empowerment, aligning with IUIU’s values.
In her acceptance speech, Alupo expressed gratitude, noting the honor as a testament to collective efforts in building Uganda’s future. She conveyed President Museveni’s message, praising IUIU for nurturing innovative leaders. This recognition continues IUIU’s tradition of honoring influential figures, such as past recipients like former presidents and scholars, who advance societal progress.
What stood out about this year’s graduating class?
This year’s graduating class of 2,484 students was remarkable for its size, diversity, and gender composition. For the seventh year running, females outnumbered males, making up over 50% of the graduates—a clear indicator of IUIU’s success in promoting girl-child education. Graduates hailed from various faculties, including health sciences (with programs in nursing and midwifery), law, education, business administration, and emerging fields like information technology and cultural heritage studies.
Standout achievements included awards for excellence, such as the Rector’s Award for Innovation and Academic Excellence given to Waako Shadidu Ismail for his groundbreaking work in sustainable technology. Other honorees were recognized for discipline and leadership, with presentations during the ceremony evoking applause. Personal stories added depth: For instance, Nabakhwana Hafuswa, a TikTok-featured graduate, overcame financial hurdles to earn her degree, inspiring many. The class’s international flavor, with students from over 21 countries, highlighted IUIU’s role in fostering global citizenship.
What were the highlights of the event?
The ceremony was packed with memorable moments, starting with the academic procession that set a tone of dignity and tradition. Entertainment by Matali Entertainment brought energy, with dances that had the crowd swaying. Award presentations celebrated top performers, while the conferment of degrees saw emotional scenes of graduates crossing the stage amid cheers from families.
A key highlight was the inauguration of the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, symbolizing IUIU’s forward-thinking approach. Live streams on platforms like Facebook and Afromobile allowed remote viewing, extending the reach. The event also featured cultural displays, including Islamic recitations and Ugandan folk performances, blending heritage with modernity.
What new programs and initiatives are driving IUIU’s future?
IUIU’s growth is propelled by innovative programs tailored to contemporary needs. The new Faculty of Engineering and Technology offers degrees in civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering, aiming to produce graduates who can tackle infrastructure challenges like renewable energy and urban planning. Health sciences expansions include advanced nursing and midwifery, addressing Uganda’s healthcare shortages.
Initiatives like scholarships for underprivileged students and partnerships with international bodies enhance accessibility. The university is also investing in research centers for cultural heritage and Islamic finance, fostering innovation. Future plans include digital campuses and collaborations with tech firms, ensuring graduates are job-ready in a global economy.
How did graduates and families react to the ceremony?
Reactions were overwhelmingly positive, with graduates expressing joy and relief after years of dedication. “This is the culmination of hard work and sacrifices,” shared one graduate on social media, echoing sentiments of pride. Families beamed with emotion, many traveling long distances to witness the milestone. Parents praised IUIU for instilling values alongside academics, with one guardian noting, “The university has shaped my child into a responsible leader.”
Social media buzzed with posts of smiling graduates in gowns, hashtags like #IUIU34thGraduation trending as alumni and supporters shared congratulations. The event fostered a sense of community, with tears, hugs, and celebrations marking the day.
What message did leaders send to the graduates?
Leaders delivered empowering messages focused on service, innovation, and lifelong learning. Vice President Alupo urged graduates to become job creators rather than seekers, emphasizing entrepreneurship amid limited government positions. “Learning has no end; continue seeking knowledge to succeed,” she advised, thanking parents for their support.
University rector Prof. Gyagenda stressed translating education into societal impact: “We are releasing graduates with a clear message: education must translate into service, integrity, and impact.” President Museveni’s conveyed message highlighted IUIU’s role in nurturing morally grounded leaders. The Emir of Kano echoed calls for ethical leadership, inspiring the class to contribute globally.
What does this graduation mean for Uganda’s education sector?
The 34th IUIU graduation signifies progress in Uganda’s higher education landscape, where private institutions like IUIU complement public universities in expanding access. With female dominance in graduates, it advances gender parity, aligning with national goals under the National Development Plan. The focus on STEM and innovation addresses skills gaps, preparing youth for industries like oil and gas, agriculture, and tech.
Broader implications include strengthening ties with the OIC, potentially attracting more funding for education. As Uganda grapples with unemployment, IUIU’s emphasis on entrepreneurship offers a model for other institutions. This event reinforces education’s role in national unity and development, bridging religious and cultural divides.
The 34th graduation not only marked personal triumphs but also IUIU’s enduring legacy as a pioneer in inclusive education since 1988. As the sun set on Mbale, the new alumni stepped into the world, ready to bridge communities and drive change.
What you need to know:
Rising enrollment, sustained female dominance, new programs like engineering, and honors for national leaders mark another milestone for IUIU in Mbale.
