Kampala University Staff Unite in Grand End-of-Year Celebration at Garuga Resort
Kampala University closed the curtain on 2025 in elegance, unity, and renewed purpose as staff from all its five campuses gathered for a colourful End-of-Year Staff Party at Garuga Resort Beach Hotel on December 20, 2025 .
Staff members from the Ggaba Main Campus, Masaka Campus, Jinja Campus, Mutundwe Campus, and Luweero Campus gathered as one family to mark the close of a demanding yet successful year.
The event, held against the serene backdrop of Lake Victoria, was a true manifestation of Kampala University’s culture of togetherness, gratitude, and shared vision. From the morning hours to late in the evening, the resort buzzed with excitement, laughter, and camaraderie as staff took a well-deserved break from their professional duties to celebrate collective achievements.
The function was graced by the Founding Vice-Chancellor of Kampala University, Owek. Ambassador Al-haj Prof. Badru D. Kateregga, accompanied by his family, the Katereggas (the stakeholders of Kampala University). In his keynote address, Prof. Kateregga congratulated members of staff upon successfully completing the year 2025 and expressed deep appreciation for their dedication and loyalty to the university.
He commended staff for standing with Kampala University through the year and encouraged them to carry the same spirit into 2026.
He urged them to remain steadfast, hardworking, and professional in all their duties, emphasizing that every action should be guided by the interests and reputation of the university. Prof. Kateregga called upon staff to “think for the university, work for the university, and put the university at the forefront,” stressing that Kampala University must continue positioning itself as a university of first choice.
He cautioned against complacency and encouraged staff to be proactive, diligent, and innovative in their respective roles, noting that collective effort is key to taking the university to greater horizons. In a strong show of support for staff welfare and financial empowerment, Prof. Kateregga encouraged the development of a robust staff SACCO that can support members in various ways and personally contributed UGX 10 million towards its growth—an announcement that was met with resounding applause.
In her address, the Resident Director of Kampala University and Vice Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, Ms. Rashidah Kateregga, congratulated staff for the remarkable work accomplished throughout the year. She applauded their commitment and teamwork, which she said had been instrumental in driving the university forward. Ms.Rashidah highlighted several key achievements registered by the university in 2025, particularly improvements in staff welfare, including the prompt payment of salaries. She noted that enhancing staff welfare remains a priority for management, as a motivated workforce is essential for institutional success.
She further celebrated the university’s regional recognition, citing the prestigious Trailblazer Award won in Kigali in recognition of Kampala University’s outstanding contribution to the region. She also applauded innovations emerging from the university, especially the IT Department’s hackathon workshop where students showcased creative and impactful technological solutions.
Sports excellence was also highlighted as a growing area of success, with Ms. Rashidah noting that Kampala University continues to perform impressively in various sporting disciplines, enhancing its visibility and reputation. She also talked about the Africa Elephant Award that was given to the university Vice-Chancellor for his outstanding services to Scouting. She encouraged staff to remain focused, professional, efficient, and hardworking in 2026, assuring them of continued support from management.
The Chairperson of the Organising Committee who serves as the University DirectorHuman Resource Directorate, Ms. Aidah Naisanga, also addressed the gathering, congratulating staff upon a successful event and thanking them for turning up in large numbers. She emphasized the importance of unity and solidarity as the university heads into the new year, noting that togetherness remains the backbone of Kampala University’s success.
The day’s programme began with engaging team-building activities in the morning, designed to strengthen bonds among staff through fun, cooperation, and friendly competition. These activities created an atmosphere of joy and relaxation, allowing staff from different campuses to interact freely outside the formal work environment.
A sumptuous buffet lunch followed, offering a variety of delicacies that catered to diverse tastes. As evening set in, the celebration transitioned into a lively barbecue session, further enriching the festive experience. Entertainment was a major highlight of the event, with electrifying performances from renowned Ugandan musicians Vinka and Winnie Nwagi, whose energetic performances thrilled the audience and kept the celebration vibrant. A live band complemented the performances, while refreshments flowed freely, creating a truly festive ambiance.
The event also recognized excellence and long service among staff. Best-performing staff members were honored with awards and accolades in appreciation of their dedication and outstanding contributions. Among those recognized was Mr. Kasumba Charles, who was awarded for being the longest-serving member of staff, drawing admiration and applause from colleagues.
By Ssekatawa Julius Abubakar
The Public Relations Officer, Kampala University