Friday 17th November was an exciting day for JJ with the college holding its inaugural graduation ceremony. Special guests included the Minister of Local Government, a representative from Uganda Business and Technical Examination Board, Hand in Hand’s East African Development Manager, the Diocesan Education Secretary and local government leaders. Events kicked off with a procession of staff, current students and members of the board of governors, led by a marching band, from Ishaka to the college ground.

Despite a delay of over two hours due to heavy rain, the procession went ahead and thankfully the sun shone for activities at the college. Current students provided entertainment during the ceremony, served as ushers and helped to prepare food for guests alongside staff and hired caterers.

16 of the 107 graduates were recognised for having achieved a Division One or Distinction, the top grades in their respective courses.

Graduates were encouraged to put the college motto “Skilled to Serve” into practice and to contribute to their communities and the wider society, using their skills to help others, and not only to secure income for themselves and their immediate families. The alumni representative, speaking on behalf of graduates, noted how he and two of his friends are already doing so — providing internship opportunities at their workplace for current students.

All 58 students who graduated with certificates in Early Child Care and Education are now either employed or, in a few cases, married and not looking for employment — the college principal has received requests for nursery teachers, but has none to recommend who are looking for work! Three graduates are employed as chefs in a large hotel in Mbarara, two as hotel receptionists and one as a hotel manager (in different hotels), another is a school secretary, two work for a construction company, one as a paymaster for the army, others in small businesses, …