The Independent Uganda: You get the Truth we Pay the Price
KAMPALA, UGANDA | THE INDEPENDENT | Uganda Christian University (UCU) has unveiled new graduation gowns to replace the traditional black gowns ahead of the second edition of its 25th graduation, scheduled for Friday this week.
During the unveiling ceremony, Rev. Dr. Assoc. Prof. John Kitayimbwa, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academics, announced that the new gowns mark the end of what he termed as the “old colonial era” of black gowns.
He explained that the black gowns have been overused by a variety of institutions, including those offering short courses and even kindergarten schools. “Graduation is a special occasion for students at higher institutions of learning who dedicate years to studying specific disciplines,” said Dr. Kitayimbwa.
“It is inappropriate for someone who has spent four years studying to wear a gown that is no different from those used at kindergarten graduations. In this country, the graduation gown has become the most abused symbol of education.”
Dr. Kitayimbwa questioned the practice of holding graduation ceremonies for kindergartens, challenging the rationale behind such events. He argued that such acts undermine the value of genuine academic achievements and suggested that schools and parents should focus on encouraging pupils to study hard and reserve graduation gowns for more significant academic milestones.
The new gowns, which will be worn by all undergraduates and postgraduates, feature a dominant blue color with variations to signify different faculties. Despite the change, the university has maintained the prices for the new gowns, which will be exclusively available at UCU.
Agira Birungi, the UCU Guild President, praised the initiative, describing it as a timely and well-thought-out decision. The university is set to graduate over 1,000 students at its Mukono campus on Friday.
****
URN
