By Standard Reporter
Central Region has emerged the overall winner of the inaugural Uganda Christian University (UCU) Kampala Campus Cultural Gala after a series of competitions celebrating students’ cultural heritage, creativity and unity.
The gala, that was held on October 3, 2026, at the UCU Kampala Campus basketball grounds, brought together students representing the Central, Eastern, Northern and Western regions, as well as international students.
Held under the theme “In the Anchoring Roots” the event was hosted under the campus’ Ministry of Culture and Arts by Joshua Goodluck and Barbara Ainomugisha.
Ainomugisha, the Deputy Minister of Culture and Arts, said the inaugural event demonstrated that culture goes beyond entertainment and performances.
“This first cultural gala taught us that culture is more than performance. It is about knowing where we come from, appreciating one another and creating a space where everyone can confidently share their heritage.”
Students competed in drama and skits, poetry, folk songs, cultural dance and modelling as they showcased their talents and cultural identities.
The event also featured a modelling competition in which contestants presented creative wear, theme wear, evening wear and cultural wear.
Central Region took the trophy for overall winner earning praise for its coordination and outstanding performances, with its Kiganda cultural dance drawing applause from the audience, and its notable performances in poetry and drama.
Joshua Kimmich was named Best Male Dancer, while Shadia Nalubiri took the Best Female Dancer award.
Western Region also performed strongly in the folk song category, with Hadassah emerging as Best Soloist. Mercy Buwande represented Eastern Region among the notable performers in the category.
The gala provided students with an opportunity to express themselves through music, dance, drama, poetry and fashion while learning to appreciate the cultural backgrounds represented within the university community.
The winning team received a trophy and cash prize, while outstanding individual performers were awarded medals. All participants received certificates of participation.
The gala also attracted guests, including representatives from Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC) and members of the media.
