By Aulah Najjuuka
The Uganda Christian University (UCU) Alumni Association officially began its general election process earlier this month , an event eagerly awaited by alumni who wish to compete for over 20 key positions within the association. This announcement heralds the start of a lively campaign season, culminating in a virtual election on 1st July 2024.
The positions available include Chairperson, General Secretary, Secretary for Finance, Secretary for Religious affairs, among others, each vital to increased alumni engagement. Specific eligibility criteria applies to certain roles; for instance, candidates for the Speaker and Deputy Speaker positions must be practising lawyers, ensuring that those with the necessary expertise and experience lead the association’s discussions and decisions.
To be eligible for candidacy, alumni must have graduated at least three years earlier and should have updated their voters’ or contestants’ register.
This requirement ensures that candidates bring substantial professional and life experience to their roles. Additionally, there is a subscription fee for the application process: 60,000 UGX for higher positions and 30,000 UGX for other roles. This fee structure is intended to ensure a serious commitment from the candidates.
The nomination process closes on Friday June 7th 2024. Prospective candidates are encouraged to submit their applications promptly and ensure they meet all criteria. The Alumni Association office is available for inquiries and support throughout the nomination period, and interested parties can also contact them via email at admin@alumni.ucu.ac.ug.
This election cycle is a significant opportunity for UCU alumni to influence the future direction of their association. Alumni engagement is a core value of UCU’s community ethos, fostering a network of professionals who contribute to the university and broader society.
The upcoming election is not merely a procedural event but a call for dynamic leadership and innovative ideas to propel the association forward.
Many alumni are already expressing their excitement and anticipation. Leonah Nakiyinji, a UCU alumna and businesswoman, remarked: “This election is a fantastic opportunity for us to step up and take leadership roles. Even though I’m not yet eligible to contest since I graduated two years ago, I’m very invested in these elections because it’s about giving back to an institution that has given us so much.”
Similarly, John Kiggundu, a practising lawyer and potential candidate for the Deputy Speaker position, highlighted the election’s importance for alumni professional development. “Being part of the UCU Alumni Association leadership allows us to influence and contribute to our professional community in meaningful ways,” he stated.
As the election date approaches, the UCU Alumni Association looks forward to a vibrant and engaging campaign season. The association remains dedicated to ensuring a fair and transparent election process, selecting the best candidates to lead and inspire the next generation of UCU graduates.
For more details on the election and the application process, alumni are encouraged to visit the UCU Alumni Association’s office or contact them via the provided email. This election is a crucial moment for UCU alumni to actively shape the future of their alma mater and its dynamic alumni community.
