From Cleaner to First-Class Graduate: Cavendish University’s Duku Robert Defies the Odds
Like one philosopher said once, "you do not have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” The timeless words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. perfectly capture the remarkable journey of Duku Robert, a young man who began as a cleaner but will now graduate with a First-Class Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology from Cavendish University Uganda.
As Cavendish University prepares to confer degrees, diplomas, and certificates upon 990 students during its 14th Graduation Ceremony on August 21, 2025, at Speke Resort Munyonyo Convention Centre, Robert’s story shines as a powerful testimony of resilience, sacrifice, and determination.
Robert’s story began in 2021 when he enrolled for a Diploma in Information Technology. Despite financial struggles that had earlier derailed his A-Level education, he persevered, completed his diploma in 2022, and immediately upgraded to a bachelor’s program.His resilience has now culminated in academic excellence.
“Despite the struggles, I always knew I wanted to pursue higher education. The setbacks only fueled my determination,” Robert reflected, Monday, speaking to our reporter after a press conference.
While on scholarship, Robert balanced rigorous cleaning duties with his studies. His days started at 4:00 a.m. with cleaning shifts before attending lectures at 8:00 a.m. His ability to excel academically while shouldering such responsibilities became a source of inspiration for peers and faculty alike.
“It was not easy, but I had to prove myself to my bosses and avoid complaints. I also learned to collaborate with fellow cleaners, which made the work lighter,” he recounted.
Cavendish University Chancellor Ms. Olive Sabiiti praised Robert as a symbol of resilience and a living example of the university’s mission.
“Robert’s story is proof that with discipline, focus, and commitment, no dream is too big to achieve. At Cavendish, we prepare our students for the world of work in every profession, and Robert embodies the spirit of excellence and perseverance we stand for,” she said.
His triumph reflects this year’s graduation theme, “Empowering Futures: Cultivating Leaders for a Global Tomorrow.”
The 14th Graduation Ceremony will be presided over by H.E. Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Chancellor of CUU. Distinguished guests will include Mr. Bernard Paul Mono, Acting Director General of the East African Development Bank, as Chief Guest, and Dr. Vincent Ogutu, Vice Chancellor of Strathmore University, who will deliver the Commencement Address.
Speaking ahead of the event, Ms. Sabiiti further urged graduates to embrace lifelong learning in order to remain competitive in today’s rapidly changing world. She also emphasized the need to adopt emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) with responsibility and critical thinking.
“AI is not something we can prohibit. You either embrace it or perish. At Cavendish, we continue assessments but guide students to use AI responsibly and think critically,” she noted.
Among the 990 students graduating, 46 are scholarship beneficiaries, underscoring Cavendish University’s commitment to making quality education accessible. For Robert, that opportunity transformed not just his career prospects but his entire life story.
His journey from cleaner to first class graduate stands as a beacon of hope to many young Ugandans proof that with resilience, opportunity, and the right support, no obstacle is insurmountable.
