Lira, Uganda – The 11th graduation ceremony of All Saints University Lango (ASUL) held on the 21 February, 2025 in Senior Quarters A, Lira City East Division saw hundreds of graduates, parents and dignitaries converge to celebrate academic milestones.
The event was graced by Ochira John Pakony, representing the Guest of Honor, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Sports, who urged graduates to view education as a lifelong journey.
Addressing a distinguished audience, Ochira emphasized the strategic importance of ASUL as an institution of learning.
“To the graduands, let today not mark the end of your education. If you have earned a diploma, strive for a degree; if you have a degree, aim for a master’s. Education is the foundation of national development and personal transformation,” he stated.
Ochira also advised parents to be patient with their children, urging them to avoid setting unrealistic financial expectations immediately after graduation.
He acknowledged the economic hardships families face but emphasized that graduates need time to find stable employment and establish their careers.
Francis Peterson Ojede, the Chairperson of the University Council, commended ASUL’s resilience in overcoming challenges, including post-COVID financial struggles.
He revealed that the university is on a steady path of growth, with enrollment projected to reach 2,000 students next year and 5,000 within three years.
He announced that the council had approved new programs, including Master’s in Business Administration, Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and other professional courses, which will run on weekday, evening and weekend schedules to accommodate different learners.
Professor Anthony Chula, the Vice Chancellor of ASUL, encouraged graduates to embrace challenges as stepping stones to success.
“Our graduates today have been equipped not only with academic knowledge but also with the moral and professional discipline required to excel in their respective careers,” Prof. Chula stated.
He advised graduates to apply their skills with passion and integrity, reminding them that success is not just about achievements but also about the resilience to overcome difficulties.
Robert Pius Okello, the Acting Academic Registrar of ASUL, emphasized the importance of continuous learning and professional development.
He urged graduates to further their education and use their skills to contribute meaningfully to society.
“I encourage all our graduates to see this as a stepping stone. Whether you hold a certificate, diploma or degree, there is always room for improvement. Education is the key to unlocking greater opportunities,” Okello stated.
He also called on graduates to embrace adaptability and innovation in their respective careers, ensuring they remain competitive in the evolving job market.
Bishop Dr. Prof. Alfred Olwa, the Chancellor of ASUL, congratulated the graduates and urged them to uphold integrity, discipline and hard work in their professional lives.
“Education is a lifelong journey. Your degree today is not the end but the beginning of greater achievements. Carry the values of honesty, diligence, and service wherever you go,” he emphasized.
Bishop Olwa also expressed gratitude to the government of Uganda for its support, particularly in returning Canon Lawrence PTC to the university, which will now be transformed into a School of Education.
The graduation ceremony concluded with the recognition of top-performing students who attained first-class degrees and distinctions in various disciplines.
Among them, Longima Mary, who earned a Distinction in Diploma in Medical Records, expressed excitement about being the best student in her field.
She affirmed her commitment to applying the knowledge she has gained in her future workplaces.
Meanwhile, Apio Serine, who attained a Diploma in Medical Records, shared that the journey was not easy but she was proud to have finally graduated.
The 11th graduation ceremony at All Saints University Lango marked a significant milestone in the university’s journey, with students emerging from three faculties: Business and Management, Social Sciences and Education, with over 400 graduates joining the workforce, further solidifying the institution’s role in developing Uganda’s human resource capacity.
