By Joshua Niwaha
With the new semester kicking in at Uganda Christian University, financial challenges remain a common experience; tuition fees, house rent, food, and materials for academics stretch many resources to a breaking point. We should understand however, that life is not about material gains but the manner in which one faces these predicaments and stands for values that count.
Success in today’s world has been equated with wealth, but richness lies in experiences, relationships, and purpose. A heart-to-heart talk with a friend, the joy of a shared meal, or the satisfaction of helping someone in need is worth much more than money. As Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 reminds us, “Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labour: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.” Relationships and support systems form the cornerstone of a rich life.
Most students balance side hustles, part-time jobs, or family sacrifices with scholarships to make ends meet. This instills resilience, resourcefulness, and the ability to navigate life’s uncertainties. As Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
UCU also endows students in ways that no money can. Chapel fellowships, outreach programmes, and friends from all over the world make university experiences have meaning.
As we embark on this new semester, let us focus on what we have; faith, friendship, and great opportunities for academic and spiritual growth. Truly, a well-lived life is not measured by the money in one’s pocket but by the contentment of one’s heart and the impact one makes on other people.