Kampala University Cultural Gala Unites Campuses in a Celebration of Heritage and Diversity
Gracing the occasion as the Chief Guest, Owek. Amb. Al-haj Prof. Badru D. Kateregga, the Founding Vice Chancellor of Kampala University, delivered inspiring remarks emphasizing the importance of culture in defining identity and shaping moral values.
Luweero, Uganda
Joy and excitement filled the air at Kampala University’s Luweero Campus as students from all five campuses—Ggaba, Luweero, Masaka, Jinja, and Mutundwe—gathered for a vibrant three-day Cultural Gala held from October 16th to 18th, 2025. The colorful event was a dynamic showcase of Uganda’s and the region’s rich cultural heritage, blending traditional dances, music, drama, poetry, and fashion in a lively atmosphere of unity and creativity.
Gracing the occasion as the Chief Guest, Owek. Amb. Al-haj Prof. Badru D. Kateregga, the Founding Vice Chancellor of Kampala University, delivered inspiring remarks emphasizing the importance of culture in defining identity and shaping moral values.
“Culture defines us. It influences our interactions, our virtues, and even our education and beliefs,” Prof. Kateregga remarked. “As young people and future leaders, you must embrace and preserve your rich cultural heritage—it is your foundation and source of identity.”
Showcasing Unity in Diversity
The gala provided a platform for 27 student cultural associations from across the five campuses to present their traditions, languages, attire, and performing arts. From energetic traditional dances to captivating drama and poetry performances, the students demonstrated the beauty of Uganda’s multicultural fabric and the strength found in diversity.
One of the event’s most anticipated highlights was the crowning of Kampala University’s Miss and Mr. Culture 2025, where Ms. Elamin Suzy Elsir Adlan, a South Sudanese national from Ggaba Campus, and Mr. Yawe Mudashur Kasibante from Jinja Campus, were honored for their cultural excellence, charisma, and creativity. Both winners received accolades and cash prizes in recognition of their outstanding representation of their respective cultures.
Top Performers and Awards
The competitive spirit was high as cultural groups showcased their best talents. Nkobazambogo from Luweero Campus emerged as the overall winner, followed closely by the Bakonjo Students Association from the same campus. Nkobazambogo Masaka Campus took third place, while Zambogo Ggaba Campus and Basoga Nseete Jinja Campus claimed fourth and fifth positions respectively.
Among international participants, the Association of Kenyan Students at Kampala University (AKESKU) won the Best International Students Association, with the Kampala University South Sudanese Students’ Association (KUSSA) coming in second for their colorful cultural presentations and unity.
Music, Fun, and Knowledge
Adding more excitement to the festival, performances from celebrated Ugandan artists Caro Kasita and Fik-Fameica thrilled the crowds, blending modern entertainment with traditional celebration. The inter-campus quiz competition also drew significant attention, with Luweero Campus securing the top position followed by Ggaba Campus.
As the curtains closed on the 2025 edition, anticipation was already building for the 2026 Kampala University Cultural Gala, which will be hosted by Masaka Campus. The announcement was met with cheers as students expressed enthusiasm for another opportunity to celebrate unity through culture.
The event not only highlighted Kampala University’s commitment to promoting intercultural understanding, diversity, and talent development, but also reaffirmed its vision of nurturing well-rounded graduates who are proud of their heritage and values.
