John Odyek 
Norbert Mao, the Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs (second right) receiving the award from Dison Bosco Okumu, chief executive officer of the Institute of Corporate Governance of Uganda (first right). Looking on are UMU Vice Chancellor Prof. Patrick E. Kyamanywa (second left) and other officials. (Photos by John Odyek)
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The Uganda Martyrs University (UMU) Alumni Association has recognised Norbert Mao, the Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs, for his contribution to public service and community development.
Mao received the 2025 Politics and Community Leadership Award from the Uganda Martyrs University Alumni Association.
The alumni gathered on November 1, 2025, at the Grand Imperial Hotel in Kampala for the second Outstanding Alumni Awards Dinner. The event celebrated 30 years of academic excellence, leadership, and national impact.
Prof. Patrick E. Kyamanywa Vice-Chancellor Uganda Martyrs University (UMU) making his remarks during the event.
Organised by the Uganda Martyrs University Alumni Association (UMUAA) under the theme “30+ Years of Impact: Alumni Making a Difference,” the dinner recognised graduates who have distinguished themselves in public service, business, academia, and community development.
UMUAA president Stephen Alinaitwe said the awards were intended not only to celebrate achievement, but also to renew the sense of responsibility among alumni to contribute to the country’s progress.
“These awards are not just about recognition,” he said. “They remind us that the education we received came with a duty, to lead with integrity, to serve with humility, and to use our influence for national development.”
Among those honoured were Dr Julia Olima Oyet, chief executive officer of the Deposit Protection Fund of Uganda; Brian Ssemugenze; Francis Muhumuza; Sr Dr Mary Cecilia Draru; Mary Grace Magasa; Dr Anyanzo Thomas Abbey; Rev. Andrew Lubega; Ambrose Kibuuka; Moses Kasozzi; Kezara Derrick Damba; Samuel Kaweesi; Jovan Ngobya; Wasswa Achilles Kawoya; and Sr Specioza, all recognised for their professional excellence and contribution to society.
The guest speaker, Dison Bosco Okumu, chief executive officer of the Institute of Corporate Governance of Uganda, challenged the alumni to become advocates of good governance in their respective fields.
Dr Julia Olima Oyet, CEO of Deposit Protection Fund addressing the audience.
“Good governance begins with personal discipline,” he said. “It is reflected in how you make decisions, how you uphold fairness, and how you defend what is right even when it is not popular. Be the champions of integrity in every room you enter,” Okumu added.
His message resonated strongly with the audience, many of whom serve in public administration, education, and business leadership. Mao commended UMU for nurturing professionals who bring discipline and moral clarity to public service.
“UMU graduates have earned a reputation for decency, professionalism, and ethical conduct,” he said. “In a time when integrity is in short supply, this university continues to produce people who lead with conscience.”
“I thank the Uganda Martyrs University Outstanding Alumni Awards Committee for finding me fit to receive the 2025 Politics and Community Leadership Award of the Uganda Martyrs University Alumni Association. The Award is for my contribution to access to justice & national healing,” Mao noted.
Mary Magasa, the Minister of Public Service and UMU alumna, echoed similar sentiments, describing UMU as a model for value-based education.
Stephen Alinaitwe President Uganda Martyrs University Alumni Association (UMUAA).
“The mark of a true UMU graduate is consistency, humility and respect for service,” she said. “Your influence is seen in government offices, classrooms, and boardrooms across the country. Keep lifting the standard of leadership.”
Magasa encouraged the alumni association to strengthen mentorship and collaboration among members.
“Support one another,” she added. “The strength of a university is reflected in the strength of its alumni community.”
Network of impact
UMU Vice Chancellor Prof. Patrick E. Kyamanywa reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to building a dynamic alumni network that promotes mentorship, entrepreneurship, and research.
“Our graduates are the face of UMU,” he said. “Their integrity and innovation are shaping the nation, and we remain committed to supporting their growth.”
Celebration
The evening featured cultural performances, networking sessions, and moments of reflection on the university’s journey since its founding.
