Uganda Christian University (UCU) is a private, church-founded university in Uganda, established on 1 July 1997. It is administered by the Church of Uganda and was the first private university in Uganda to receive a government charter in 2004. UCU is one of the largest private institutions in East Africa, with over 15,000 students (as of 2020).
Location
The main campus of Uganda Christian University is in Mukono, about 25 kilometres east of Kampala on the Kampala–Jinja Highway. UCU also has regional campuses in Kabale (Bishop Barham University College), Mbale, Arua, and Kagando (Kasese). In 2019, construction began on a permanent Kampala campus in Mengo, along Musajja Alumbwa Road.
History and Origins
UCU was founded in 1997 from the Bishop Tucker Theological College, which dates back to 1913. The college was named after Alfred Robert Tucker, a pioneer missionary bishop.
- First Vice Chancellor (2000–2010): Stephen Noll, who helped UCU secure its government charter.
- Second Vice Chancellor (2010–2020): John Senyonyi, evangelist and mathematician.
- Current Vice Chancellor (since 2020): Aaron Mushengyezi, linguist and academic.
The university’s chancellor is always the Archbishop of Uganda, currently Stephen Kaziimba (since 2020).
Faculties and Schools
As of 2020, UCU is structured into several schools and faculties, including:
- School of Law
- School of Medicine (including Dentistry and Public Health)
- Faculty of Public Health, Nursing and Midwifery
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences
- School of Social Sciences
- School of Education
- Faculty of Engineering, Design and Technology
- School of Business
- Bishop Tucker School of Divinity and Theology
- School of Journalism, Media & Communication
Medical School
In 2018, UCU launched its School of Medicine, accredited by UNCHE. It offers:
- Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery
- Bachelor of Dental Surgery
- Bachelor of Public Health
The school is closely affiliated with Mengo Hospital in Kampala, serving as a teaching hospital.
Libraries and Archives
The university maintains two major libraries at Mukono:
- Hamu Mukasa Library – the main library.
- Bishop Tucker Library – focusing on theology and history.
In addition, UCU manages the Church of Uganda Archives, preserving important historical and religious records.
Notable Alumni
- Henry Luke Orombi – 7th Archbishop of the Church of Uganda.
- Evelyn Anite – Member of Parliament and Minister of State for Investment and Privatisation.
- Ronald Kibuule – Former MP and Minister of State for Water Resources.
- Daniel Kidega – 4th Speaker of the East African Legislative Assembly.
- Peace Proscovia – Netball star and national team captain.
- Grace Akallo – Human rights activist.
- Faridah Nakazibwe – Journalist and media personality.
Overview
Today, Uganda Christian University is one of Uganda’s most respected institutions of higher learning. With strong Anglican roots but open to all students, UCU combines faith, academics, and community service. Its growth into medicine, law, technology, and social sciences demonstrates its commitment to holistic education in both urban and rural settings.
