From Vice Chancellor to Vice Chiller”: Prof. Joy.C Kwesiga Bids Farewell to Kabale University After 21 Years of Transformative Leadership

By Peter Mabira

 

Kabale University on Friday, 4th September 2026, held a colourful farewell ceremony at Kikungiri Campus to honour Prof. Kwesiga, who has served as Vice Chancellor since 2005 From makerere university and guided the institution through some of its most defining moments.

Reflecting on her journey, Prof. Kwesiga described her retirement as a moment of relief, gratitude and fulfilment after years of commitment to building an institution she found in its formative stages”Eteine omutwe nekibunu” 

Using the Rukiga expression “AHUUU! AHUUU! AHUUU!”, she explained that the words represented relief after carrying a heavy responsibility, a well-earned rest, and satisfaction that she had completed a significant mission.

Prof. Kwesiga recalled that when she joined Kabale University in 2005, the institution had limited structures and resources, requiring a hands-on approach to establish systems, faculties, departments and administrative frameworks.

She revealed that she reported to the university with her own working equipment, including a laptop, printer, basic stationery and her personal vehicle, which became some of the key tools used to run university activities in the early days.

“Like a missionary, I came with my desktop computer, laptop, printer and basic stationery,”

Prof. Joy.C.Kwesiga said, explaining that these resources helped her execute her duties at a time when the university had limited capacity.

Due to inadequate staffing, she said she often performed multiple roles beyond her position as Vice Chancellor, including responsibilities similar to those of an Academic Registrar, Procurement Officer and administrator, as she worked to build a functional university system.

Overcoming Difficult Beginnings
Prof. Kwesiga highlighted some of the most challenging moments during her leadership, including the 2015 period when Kabale University accumulated five and a half months of salary arrears, unpaid statutory obligations and debts owed to service providers.

She also recalled the struggles faced by Rwandan students whose qualifications were not recognised before the university secured its Charter status, saying the situation required persistent engagement to protect students’ academic futures.

However, she credited the Government of Uganda for supporting the institution’s transformation from a private university into a public university in 2015, describing the move as a major milestone in Kabale University’s history.

She thanked President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for supporting the establishment of the public university and helping address financial challenges that had affected the institution.

Prof. Kwesiga also appreciated the Ministry of Education and Sports, the National Council for Higher Education, university councils, partners, staff, students, alumni and the wider community for their contribution to the university’s growth.
Recognising Those Who Built the University

During her farewell address, Prof. Kwesiga recognised successive Chancellors, Council Chairpersons, Senate members, management teams and staff who played a role in shaping Kabale University.

She described staff members as the backbone of the institution, thanking them for their commitment, resilience and support during difficult periods.
She encouraged them to maintain the culture of unity, teamwork and service that has helped the university progress over the years.

To students, she applauded their role in promoting Kabale University through academic excellence, innovations, awards and responsible leadership.
She also thanked alumni for carrying the university’s name across different professional fields and contributing to its growing reputation.

A Mission Fulfilled
Reflecting on her leadership philosophy, Prof. Kwesiga said she approached her role as a “missionary,” focusing on serving the institution and laying a foundation for future generations.

Despite the achievements, she noted one major regret — failure to fully convince some Kigezi leaders to appreciate the economic and social impact of Kabale University, including employment creation, business growth and community transformation.
She, however, left the university confident about its future, saying strong systems had been established and a dedicated team was ready to continue raising the institution’s standards.
“I did not do the work alone, but I hope that like other missionaries, the seed I planted will grow,” she said.

From Vice Chancellor to Vice Chiller
As she transitioned from university leadership, Prof. Kwesiga shared a humorous message on her X handle, reflecting her excitement and gratitude for the overwhelming support she received.
“I have finally discovered the most powerful words in academia: ‘That’s for the new VC to handle.’
I’m now officially moving from Vice Chancellor to Vice Chiller! 
Thank you all so much for your lovely messages, calls, texts and all the kind wishes. I truly appreciate,” she wrote.

After more than two decades at the helm, Prof. Joy Constance Kwesiga leaves Kabale University with a legacy built on determination, sacrifice and transformation — from an institution she joined with limited resources to a public university with a stronger national and international footprint.

Beyond academia, Prof. Kwesiga is also known for her passion for football, particularly as a strong Arsenal Football Club supporter, revealing a lighter and more personal side of the celebrated academic leader.

Her tenure may have ended, but the foundation she laid continues to shape the future of Kabale University.