On July 5, 2024, Ms. Yapsoyekwo Justine of Kapchebasa Clan made history by becoming the 9th person from the Sebei community to receive a PhD. Her achievement in educational management from the great Uganda Christian University was marked with joy and pride by her community.
The celebrations began at the 25th graduation ceremony of Uganda Christian University, where Justine was among only three doctorate recipients out of 1,160 graduating students. The crowd erupted in cheers and ululations as Justine, her parents, friends, and relatives danced to traditional Sebei music, including Moze Kibet’s popular Seriet song.
The festivities continued at Kisakye Hall in Silversprings Hotel, Bugolobi, where the community gathered to honor Justine’s achievement. The room was filled with music and praise as patrons celebrated the blessings Justine brought to the community. The hour-long entourage to the high table showcased traditional dances, adding to the day’s excitement. The celebration was opened by Rev. Woreya Dan, who led a celebration song and the opening prayer.
Fiona, one of Justine’s close friends and research assistants, shared her excitement over the remarkable achievement. She revealed that Justine had accomplished this feat while concurrently pursuing two other postgraduate programs, one of which she had already completed at Uganda Management Institute, and the other at Kyambogo University.
Festo Cheptuker, a friend and former classmate, recounted Justine’s educational journey, from their days as students at Sebei College Tegeres in 2007 to their enrollment and graduation from the BSc. Education program at Kyambogo University. Cheptuker also shared Justine’s proclamation of being a “successful lady,” which has now been confirmed by her doctoral achievement.
LP Fiona, the DJ instructor for the event, reminisced about the good memories from their days at Kapchorwa Modern and introduced other old boys and girls who were in attendance. She was also part of Justine’s research team and spoke about how Justine made every team member feel valued.
Alfred Cheboriot, representing the Kapchebasa Clan where Justine was born, thanked her parents for their support and urged Justine to continue honoring her community. He highlighted the importance of education and advised parents to prioritize their children’s education, even if it means making sacrifices.
Mr. Kitikoy Johnson, speaking on behalf of other headteachers in Kapchorwa district, congratulated Justine and encouraged his colleagues to follow her example and pursue doctoral degrees.
Ms. Benna Chebet, the Board Treasurer at Teryet High Altitude Secondary School where Justine is the Headteacher, praised Justine’s contributions to the school’s development and infrastructure. The board chairperson gifted Justine with a large goat to celebrate her achievement.
Mr. Mwesigwa, a senior citizen who had worked with Justine at the Ministry of Education, described her as a “go-getter” and suggested that she was destined to become Uganda’s Prime Minister. He gifted her with 12 bibles, which he referred to as a “symbol of leadership.”
Justine’s parents, Mr. Soyekwo Adolphus and his wife, were invited to the podium. Mr. Soyekwo expressed his gratitude to the guests and shared the family’s educational achievements, crediting his wife as a “family hero” for her support throughout their journey.
Grace Kiirya, who graduated with Justine, shared her joy and acknowledged that Justine’s presence and enthusiasm had inspired her to realize her own dream of earning a doctoral degree.
Justine expressed her gratitude to the countless individuals who had supported her along the way, including her siblings, friends, relatives, lecturers, former teachers, and colleagues.
The chief guest of honor, Justice Bonny Cheborion, a prominent figure in the country, attended the celebration and encouraged Justine to use her knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on the community and beyond.
Justine’s PhD in Education Administration and Management is a testament to her hard work and dedication. Her study examined the influence of the implementation of career education on dual career development among students in the Sebei Sub-region in eastern Uganda, and she made recommendations to expand networks and collaborations that provide students with diverse career opportunities.
