By Jamillah Kemigisa
St. Mary’s Kitende Stadium was on Sunday filled with jubilation, praise and celebration as the family of Mr. Stephen Dunstan Busuulwa (Nkwagaliza Byonjagaliza) and Mrs. Jackline Busuulwa hosted a grand thanksgiving ceremony to mark their remarkable double academic milestone.
The colourful event, attended by relatives, friends, alumni, cultural leaders, local government officials, and well-wishers, was held under the inspirational theme: “There’s nothing more powerful than an idea whose time has come.”
Busuulwa recently earned a Master’s Degree in Strategic Communication from Uganda Christian University, a major academic and professional breakthrough. His wife, also completed her Diploma in Midwifery, a demanding programme that reflects her dedication to the health sector.
The thanksgiving ceremony not only celebrated their academic accomplishments but also highlighted their resilience, mutual support, and the strong family values that have shaped their success.
Speaking on behalf of Jackline’s siblings, Irene Kasumba delivered an emotional reflection on the obstacles and triumphs that defined Jackline’s academic journey. She narrated how Jackline began with a certificate in counselling “real tight,” as she fondly recalled before advancing to a rigorous diploma in midwifery, particularly the challenging research component. She thanked God for seeing her sister through to completion.
For Busuulwa siblings, the message focused on gratitude to Sylvia for her patience and unwavering support throughout Stephen’s studies. They also thanked their parents for the solid upbringing that continues to shape the family’s values and achievements.
Busuulwa’s Master’s alumni, led by Irene Lugonvu praised him for his exceptional academic performance. She revealed that out of 40 students who enrolled for the Master’s in Strategic Communication, Stephen was the only one who successfully graduated and he did so with a First Class. She commended his unmatched speed, teamwork, and commitment to online learning, noting that he often used up to seven gadgets at once to ensure he never missed a class. Lugonvu described him as a student who lifted others, always ensuring no colleague was left behind.
Speaking on behalf of Jackline’s alumni, Joyce Kunihira applauded her outstanding discipline and determination. Balancing motherhood, work duties, and a demanding academic programme is no small feat, she noted, yet Jackline persevered and excelled. She described her as a woman who relentlessly pursues excellence.
Hon. Kazibwe Ismael Kitoke, Minister of Information and Speaker of the Buganda Kingdom, used the occasion to encourage parents to embrace vocational education. He emphasized that vocational skills offer lifelong economic opportunities and provide a vital pathway for young people, especially those who may not follow traditional academic tracks.
The thanksgiving ceremony stood out as a powerful display of resilience, unity, and gratitude. From emotional testimonies to inspiring messages of hope, the event showcased the strength of family support and the transformative power of determination.
As celebrations swept through St. Mary’s Kitende Stadium, one message resonated above all: When determination meets opportunity, success becomes inevitable.
The Busuulwa family is widely known for its strong commitment to education, hard work, and disciplined values. Over the years, several family members have pursued both academic and vocational paths, often overcoming personal and financial challenges to achieve their goals. Their latest accomplishments add to a growing legacy of excellence and resilience, inspiring many within their community to stay focused and persistent in their own educational journeys.
