Culture, Talent And Unity Shine At Kampala University Cultural Gala 2026

Thirty-eight students’ associations from five campuses showcase their heritage as University and Buganda Kingdom leaders call on students to turn talent into opportunity.

Thousands of Kampala University students gathered at Mutundwe Campus for the Cultural Gala 2026, transforming the campus into a vibrant stage for cultural expression, creativity and talent.

The celebration brought together students from Ggaba, Mutundwe, Luweero, Masaka and Jinja campuses, with 38 students’ associations competing and showcasing their traditions through music, dance, poetry, fashion and creative arts. Exploring the relationship between heritage and technology, the Gala demonstrated how students can preserve their cultural identities while embracing innovation.

The Chief Guest, Owek. Sserwanga Robert Ssalongo, Buganda Kingdom Minister for Youth, Sports and Arts, attended alongside Owek. Israel Kazibwe Kitooke, Minister for Information and Mobilisation and Official Spokesperson of the Kingdom. They joined the University community at the invitation of the Founding Vice-Chancellor, Owek. Amb. Al-Haj Prof. Badru Dungu Kateregga..

Thirty-Eight Associations, One University Community

The participating associations reflected Kampala University’s diverse cultural and international community. They included Nkobazambogo, KUTASA representing Tanzanian students, Somalis’ association, Nigerians, Kenyans, South Sudanese , Congolese, Rwandeses. Bamasaba, Bakonzo students’ associations, Ateso students’ Association, Great North, Abasoga Nseete, Karo Karungi also participated, alongside other students associations.

Through traditional songs, folk dances, poetry, cultural attire and creative presentations, students shared their heritage and learned about the customs of their colleagues.

The competitions extended to the University Anthem and modelling, with contestants presenting evening wear, creative wear and official wear. These activities gave students opportunities to demonstrate confidence, teamwork, artistic skill and originality.

Beyond the competition, the Gala created a meeting point for students from different campuses and backgrounds, strengthening friendships and a shared sense of belonging to Kampala University.

Nkobazambogo In-Service Mutundwe Takes Top Honours

Nkobazambogo In-Service, Mutundwe Campus, emerged as the Overall Best Performing Association, following an impressive showing across the cultural competitions.

The association distinguished itself through traditional dance, University Anthem, folk songs, and cultural presentations that connected heritage with contemporary creativity and technology.

In the international category, the South Sudanese Students Association won the Best International Association title, while the Congolese Students Association finished as first runners-up.

The results highlighted both the strength of local cultural expression and the contribution of international students to the University’s cultural life.

The modelling competition also produced outstanding individual performances. Ian Kyagulanyi, representing the Nursing and Health Sciences Campus at Mutundwe, was crowned Mr. Culture 2026/2027, while Birungi Maria Tendo of Ggaba Campus took the Miss Culture 2026/2027 title.

Prof. Kateregga Urges Students to Turn Talent into Livelihoods

Addressing the gathering, Prof. Kateregga encouraged students to take their talents seriously and develop them into sources of income and financial independence.

He pointed to Ugandan musicians King Saha and Vinka, who performed at the Gala, as examples of people who had built successful careers through their abilities.

The Founding Vice-Chancellor urged students to pursue academic excellence while also investing time and effort in their creative strengths. He emphasised that talent, when developed with discipline and commitment, could open opportunities beyond the classroom.

He described the Cultural Gala as an important platform for discovering ability, learning from others and promoting unity across the University community.

Prof. Kateregga commended the participating students and those who supported their colleagues, recognising their contribution to the energy and success of the celebrations.

Chief Guest Champions Creativity and Innovation

The Chief Guest, Owek. Serwanga Robert Ssalongo, challenged students to develop the creativity and practical skills needed to succeed in a changing world.

He encouraged them to explore opportunities within their talents and apply their abilities to generate income, create opportunities and contribute positively to society.

His message reinforced the Gala’s wider purpose: to help students recognise the value of cultural knowledge and creative expression in their personal and professional development.

Strong Leadership Presence

The celebrations attracted senior University leaders, including, the Vice-Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the BDK Universities Network International and Resident Director of Kampala University Ms.Rashida Kateregga, the Deputy Resident Director Mr.Muhammad Faquih Kateregga , Dr. Mabo Nkwati, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, the University Financial controller Mr.Kamoga Ronald, the University Administrator and director of protocol OVC, Ms. Aida Naisanga, Director of Human Resources among others.

Mr.John Freeman, Chairman of Twezimbe attended alongside other Buganda Kingdom officials, campus directors, heads of departments, staff and invited guests.

King Saha and Vinka Energise the Celebrations

Live performances by King Saha and Vinka added excitement to the Gala, drawing enthusiastic responses from students and guests.

Their appearances also gave practical meaning to the leadership messages about the potential of talent, showing students how creative ability can develop into a professional career.

With all five campuses represented, the Cultural Gala 2026 stood out as a major University-wide celebration. It honoured cultural heritage, recognised outstanding performers and strengthened connections across Kampala University’s diverse community.

Ssekatawa Julius Abubakar,
The Public Relations Officer, Kampala University.