Vice President Jessica Alupo has praised the long-standing partnership between the Government and the Church, describing faith-based institutions as critical players in Uganda’s national development, peace-building, and socio-economic transformation.
Speaking during the third graduation ceremony of the Queen of Apostles Philosophy Centre in Jinja City on Saturday, Alupo commended religious institutions for their contribution to education, healthcare, wealth creation, and moral development.
“I want to appreciate the work of faith-based institutions in the country, especially in key areas of health, education, wealth creation, and building the moral integrity and discipline of citizens,” Alupo said.
The graduation ceremony, held under the theme “Rooted in Wisdom: Set for Transformation Service,” saw 56 students graduate with Bachelor’s degrees in Philosophy of Arts, Philosophy in Peace and Security, and Philosophy in Social Sciences.
Established in 1989 by the Visionary Missionary Congregations, the Queen of Apostles Philosophy Centre is affiliated with the Pontifical Urban University in Rome and is currently mentored under Uganda Martyrs University.
Alupo noted that Uganda’s youthful population presents immense opportunities, emphasizing the shared responsibility of Government and Church leaders to equip young people with skills, values, and competencies needed for national development.
“Uganda is blessed to be among the countries with the youngest populations in the world. It remains our responsibility as Government and Church leaders to harness this youthful population into useful and resourceful citizens by imparting skills and competencies for a disciplined and productive society,” she said.
The Vice President, who also serves as Woman MP for Katakwi District, said institutions that combine academic excellence with moral values are key to shaping Uganda’s future.
“As an educationist and political leader, I believe the future of our country depends on institutions that combine knowledge with values, competence with integrity, and innovation with compassion and humanity,” she added.
Alupo reaffirmed Government’s commitment to socio-economic transformation under the leadership of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni through Uganda Vision 2040 and the National Development Plans, noting that priorities such as good governance, peace and security, human capital development, and wealth creation align with the institution’s aspirations.
She also commended the management and Board of Trustees of the philosophy centre for plans to transition into a fully-fledged university, describing the move as timely and promising.
However, she urged the institution’s leadership to strengthen governance systems, academic research, digital innovation, infrastructure, and partnerships with the National Council for Higher Education to ensure quality and sustainability during the transition.
Addressing the graduands, Alupo challenged them to become ambassadors of integrity, accountability, and service to humanity.
“The world does not only need brilliant minds; it needs trustworthy people. Uganda needs leaders who reject corruption, promote accountability, protect human dignity, and work for the common good,” she said.
She encouraged the graduates to emulate notable alumni such as Dominic Eibu, whose humility and service have inspired many.
Alupo also congratulated one of the graduates, Raphael Alemu from Ethiopia, whom she described as her “son,” for strengthening ties between Uganda and Ethiopia during his three years at the institution.
“You have motivated our young people to understand opportunities available between our two countries and the region as a whole. I congratulate you upon this milestone,” she said.
In his homily, Bishop Dominic Eibu, the main celebrant and Bishop of Kotido Diocese, urged graduates to use their knowledge and talents to serve Christ, the Church, and society.
Meanwhile, Rev. Prof. Maviiri John Chrysostom, Chairperson of the Governing Council, encouraged the graduates to remain connected to their alma mater and contribute to the institution’s growth as it transitions into a university.
“You are the generation that will witness and contribute to the transformation of PCJ into a university. Remain connected to your alma mater, support her growth, and mentor those who come after you,” Maviiri said.
