Have you ever wondered why the Giraffe was specifically chosen as the Kampala International University logo? Kibuuka Ambrose, Member Board of Trustees at KIU, gives us the oral history on why this gracious animal was chosen to be the university's logo.

The notion "Exploring the Heights" was got from the Giraffe's ability to browse the leaves of tall trees.

Let's look at some of the amazing characteristics of a giraffe that has inspired the excellent achievements in KIU.

First of all, KIU is a well groomed University moving with confidence and elegance, which are some of the greatest characteristics that a giraffe exhibits. 

Secondly, the Giraffe feeds on the tallest leaves of acacia trees. This is because the Giraffe has the ability to reach to the top with it's long neck. Their extreme height allows them to eat leaves and shoots located much higher than other animals can reach. Their long tongues are helpful in eating because they help pull leaves from the trees.

In the same way, KIU strives to position herself well enough so as to reach all the parts of Africa and the world at large. 

Thirdly, Giraffes live primarily in savanna areas in the sub-Saharan region of Africa. This is evidenced with the number of students coming from different parts of the world to study here.

Next, a Giraffe is a towering giant and this makes competition irrelevant. In the same way, KIU is that Giant that towers all over the world, looking far much towards the future. 

"KIU reaches where others can not. We stand out from the crowd and do things that define dominion," Kibuuka said.

Last, but not least, Giraffes are so social that they don't have territories, and due to these characteristics, KIU is able to attract people from all corners of the world, hence the concept of "Exploring The Heights."

Faiza Mohamed Osman, a Masters student of project planning, says that when she saw the Giraffe, she thought it was just a mere design.

"I think it's just a design and the university wants to be different from the rest of the universities and indeed, KIU is exceptional," she said.

However, she is excited to know that the Giraffe is such a unique representation of the university.

The giraffe spirit animal symbolizes self-acceptance and self-love. The giraffe is proud of its appearance and knows that it is truly unique in the world, and this is what KIU is all about.