By Leonard Kamugisha

 KIU, MAIN CAMPUS - As I reflect on my journey, I am reminded of the profound impact Kampala International University (KIU) has had on my life. Growing up in a rural setting, my passion for storytelling and amplifying the voices of the voiceless drove me to pursue a career in journalism.

This passion led me to establish Parrots Media, an independent media organization. My educational background at KIU was instrumental in grooming me into the person I am today. I joined KIU in 2015, and each day was memorable, filled with challenges and growth.

One of my fondest memories is when my Head of Department, Dr. Joan Owade, intervened and pleaded on my behalf, allowing me to sit for my final exams despite financial setbacks. This experience taught me the importance of persistence, resilience, and mentorship.

Through KIU's Bachelor of Mass Communication program, I gained technical and soft skills, including news writing and reporting, communication, and multimedia storytelling. Coursework presentations helped me develop public speaking skills, problem-solving, and technical expertise, which I now employ in training the next generation of journalists.

As I look back on my KIU experience, I am grateful for the university's commitment to making education accessible and transformative. The offering of 50% academic bursaries for students facing financial difficulties is a testament to this commitment.

As KIU celebrates 25 years, I anticipate a future where the university will be ranked among the top 10 in Africa and globally recognized for academic excellence, innovation, and partnerships. I congratulate KIU on this milestone anniversary and look forward to its continued growth and impact.

About the Author:

Leonard Kamugisha, Founder of Parrots Media and Junior Lecturer at Team University.