Bugema University in Luwero District has announced an ambitious plan to establish an aviation program that will include the purchase of aircraft to enhance student training and strengthen emergency medical response capacity. University officials explained that the aircraft will also be utilized in airlifting and treating road accident victims in critical condition.

The initiative was revealed by the Vice Chancellor, Dr. Israel Kafeero, during the institution’s 31st graduation ceremony held at the main campus under the theme, “Empowered for Excellence; Serving with Purpose.” At the event, a total of 1,779 graduates were conferred with degrees, diplomas, and certificates.

Dr. Kafeero disclosed that representatives from the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) have already inspected the university and confirmed that it meets the foundational requirements to launch the program. He added that the university also intends to build a runway to support both flight training and emergency operations.

According to recent police statistics, Uganda registered 25,107 road traffic crashes in 2024, up from 23,608 in 2023, reflecting a 6.4% increase. The proposed aviation initiative is expected to contribute to faster medical evacuations and potentially help reduce fatalities resulting from such incidents.

The ceremony also marked a leadership transition at Bugema University, with Pr. Samuel Kajoba, head of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Uganda, officially installed as the new Chancellor, taking over from Dr. Maka Moses, who has retired.

In his inaugural address, Pr. Kajoba challenged graduates to apply their skills for the betterment of society rather than personal gain, saying they should not “keep their abilities as ornaments but transform the world and leave a legacy.”

Quoting Nelson Mandela, he reminded them that “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” He further urged graduates to view professionalism as a form of service, stressing that the true essence of education lies in how it benefits others.

URN