UCU Sends Four Students to Netherlands

By Elton Mwidu
Uganda Christian University (UCU) has selected four students to participate in a five-month academic exchange program at Hanze University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands, strengthening its international academic partnerships.
The selected students are Byebyona John Guest and Ankunda Esther from the School of
Business, Otukei Christopher and Nakkazi Beatrice Antonniah from the School of Social
Sciences.
The students will undertake coursework and gain international academic and cultural exposure
under the UCU–Hanze University collaboration.
Vice Chancellor Canon Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi said the program aims to prepare students for
global competitiveness by exposing them to diverse learning environments and advanced
academic resources.
“This program adds value not only to your academics and life but also to your CV. You will
face challenges, but you will also grow and make friends,” Mushengyezi said.
He urged the students to be curious, humble, and proactive in using the learning opportunities
at Hanze University, while upholding UCU’s Christian values.
Speaking for the students, Esther Ankunda expressed gratitude for the opportunity and said
they were eager to learn and represent the university internationally.
“We are excited to experience new things and see what we have never seen before. We
thank the University for this opportunity, and we will represent UCU well,” she said.
Parents and guardians welcomed the initiative, with UCU alumnus Paul Agaba describing the
exchange as transformative and encouraging the students to excel while abroad. He quoted
scripture, urging them to “excel in a foreign land as Joseph excelled in Egypt.”
Dr. Jonathan Tumwebaze, Dean of the School of Social Sciences, said the program supports
UCU’s vision of being a center of academic excellence.
Dr. Mugisha Henry, Dean of the School of Business, said the partnership reflects growing
international recognition of UCU’s academic standards and urged the students to maintain
discipline and integrity.