“Abnormal” Professors Think Beyond the Ordinary, Kateregga Tells Kampala University Students
Founding Vice-Chancellor praises rising standards at annual Cultural Gala as students from five campuses compete for top prizes—including cows.
By Brian Mugenyi
KAMPALA — Kampala University’s founding Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Badru Dungu Kateregga, has commended students for an impressive showcase of heritage, music, and drama at the institution’s annual Cultural Gala, held at the Mutundwe Campus on Saturday, October 24, 2026.
Singling out the Mutundwe In-Service group for its electrifying routine, Prof. Kateregga urged participants to pour passion and originality into everything they undertake.
“I see a lot of improvement,” Prof. Kateregga said. “The Mutundwe In-Service group danced until they collapsed—and that is what you should do. If you have come to demonstrate your talent, do it with all your heart.”
‘Abnormal’ Thinking and Originality Injecting humor into his address, the Vice-Chancellor shared a lighthearted take on academic leadership: “Professors like me are not normal; they are abnormal because they think at a level beyond the ordinary.”
He explained that higher education should inspire students to challenge conventional thinking, avoid mere imitation, and embrace creative risk-taking.
“Originality is what Kampala University is about,” he added. “Let us bring our originality here and do what others cannot do.” He also commended the student body for their discipline and decorum throughout the festivities.
A Celebration of Heritage and Diversity The gala brought together student associations across Kampala University’s five campuses—Ggaba, Mutundwe, Masaka, Jinja, and Luweero—representing a body of over 10,000 students from more than 20 nationalities.
For Rose Mary Nakanwagi, a Mass Communication student who traveled from the Masaka Campus, the event served as an immersive cultural exchange.
“It was a wonderful experience,” Nakanwagi said, describing the vibrant traditional attire exhibitions, drama, and folk songs. “We watched from the upper floor and traveled all the way by coaster just to be part of this learning experience.”
The event was also graced by Buganda Kingdom official Owek. Kazibwe, whose presence highlighted the enduring link between academic institutions and traditional leadership in preserving cultural heritage.
Cows for Winners and Modern Entertainment Combining heritage with friendly competition, outstanding cultural groups were awarded live cows as grand prizes—a signature reward honoring excellence in cultural preservation.
Julius Ssekatawa, the university’s Public Relations Officer, commended both the student body and university leadership for organizing a seamless event that fostered cross-campus unity.
Closing out the festivities, popular musician King Saha took to the stage, adding a vibrant contemporary note to the traditional celebrations.
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