Kabale University celebrated a historic milestone during its 11th Graduation Ceremony, held on Friday, 30th October 2026, at the Main Campus, Kikungiri Hill, Kabale Municipality. The ceremony brought together University leadership, government officials, diplomats, academic staff, graduates, parents, guardians and invited guests to celebrate academic excellence and institutional achievements.

Held under the theme “Empowering Future-Ready Graduates for Innovation, Employment and National Transformation,” the occasion marked ten years since Kabale University commenced operations as a Public University in 2016, following its historic transition from a private community-founded institution.

The University celebrated 2,469 graduates, representing a remarkable 47.6% increase from the 1,673 graduates recorded during the 10th Graduation Ceremony in 2025.

The graduating cohort comprised 1,448 males (58.6%) and 1,021 females (41.4%), including six Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) graduates, 144 Master’s graduates, 53 Postgraduate Diploma graduates and 1,670 Bachelor’s graduates, alongside Diploma and Certificate graduates.

Notably, approximately 53.3% of the graduates completed programmes in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Innovation (STEM/I), reflecting the University’s contribution to developing skilled professionals for national transformation.

The ceremony was presided over by the University Chancellor, Hon. Canon Mathew Rukikaire, and graced by Hon. Maj. Gen. Jim Muhwezi, Minister of Security, who represented the Chief Guest, the Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda.

Other distinguished guests included the Ambassador of France to Uganda, H.E. Virginie Leroy, the Ambassador of Nigeria to Uganda, H.E. Misitura Abdulraheem, members of the University Council and Senate, representatives of sister universities, government officials and other stakeholders.

In his address, the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Johnny Mugisha, highlighted the University’s significant achievements in academic growth, research, innovation, international partnerships and infrastructure development. He also reaffirmed the University’s commitment to producing competent, ethical and innovative graduates capable of contributing to national and regional development.

The ceremony celebrated outstanding academic performance, with 146 graduates attaining First Class degrees.

Desire Ampeire, who completed a Bachelor of Business Administration with a CGPA of 4.94, emerged as the overall best graduate and best female graduate. Gerald Ssebuuma, who completed a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering with a CGPA of 4.82, was recognised as the best male graduate.

The occasion also featured a special tribute to former Vice Chancellor Prof. Joy Constance Kwesiga, recognising her 21 years of distinguished service and immense contribution to the University’s growth and transformation, including her recognition with the prestigious title of Professor Emerita.

Beyond celebrating the Class of 2026, the ceremony reflected Kabale University’s continued progress in higher education, research and community engagement.

The University highlighted achievements including its rise to fourth position nationally in the July 2026 Webometrics Rankings, the establishment of the Kabale University Business Incubation Centre (KABBIC), the MTN Spark Hub, expansion to Rukungiri and Kisoro campuses, and its selection to host the National Artificial Intelligence Node for the East African Community.

These developments demonstrate the University’s growing contribution to innovation, skills development and socioeconomic transformation.

This photo gallery captures highlights of the historic celebration, including the Chancellor’s academic procession, addresses by distinguished guests and University leadership, doctoral graduates, ceremonial proceedings, and memorable moments shared by graduates, families and the wider University community.

Kabale University congratulates the Class of 2026 on their remarkable achievements and welcomes them to its growing alumni community.

Explore the photographs and relive the memorable moments of the 11th Graduation Ceremony, a celebration of academic excellence, institutional progress and a decade of public university education.

Download the Graduation booklet here