CUEA Valedictorian Calls on Graduates to be Ethical Leaders and to Transform Society
By Stephen Mbobu
The Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) Class of 2026 has been challenged to use its education, skills and values to transform society through ethical leadership, service and a commitment to improving the lives of others.
Delivering the valedictory address during the university’s graduation ceremony, Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduand Anita Cheyech Lopokoiyit urged her fellow graduates to measure success not only by personal achievements, but also by the positive impact they make in their communities.
“Success is measured not only by what we achieve, but also by how many lives we lift along the way,” she said, calling on graduates to reflect on how they could use their knowledge and abilities to address challenges in society.
Speaking in line with the graduation theme, “Transforming Societies through Ethical Leadership, Transformative Education, Research and Innovation,” Anita challenged her classmates to ask themselves what difference they could make in their communities and to identify opportunities to create meaningful change.
“Change begins with one person, one decision, one act of kindness and the courage to do what is right, even when no one is watching,” she said.
Drawing from her experience as a nursing student, she observed that even the smallest acts of service could make a significant difference in people’s lives. She encouraged the graduates to carry the values they had acquired at CUEA beyond the university gates and apply them in their professional and personal lives.
Anita described graduation as a significant milestone achieved through perseverance, sacrifice and determination. Quoting Nelson Mandela, she reminded the graduating class that, “It always seems impossible until it’s done.”
She acknowledged the challenges the students had faced throughout their academic journey, including sleepless nights and moments of uncertainty, noting that their achievement was a result of their courage to persevere.
“Today, I can confidently say that I am not the same person who first walked through these university gates. I leave with more than a degree. I have grown not only in knowledge and skills, but also in character, confidence and the way I see the world,” she said.
She credited CUEA with instilling in the graduates the values of integrity, personal excellence and leadership through service, urging them to uphold these principles as they embark on the next phase of their lives.
The valedictorian also paid tribute to parents, guardians and sponsors for their sacrifices and unwavering support, recognising the contribution of families and well-wishers to the graduates’ success.
She thanked lecturers and mentors for guiding and preparing the students for their future responsibilities. She gave special recognition to her mother, Dr. Grace Amurle, for her encouragement and support, as well as the School of Nursing, led by Sr. Dr. Mayaka, for its role in preparing students to become competent nurses and leaders capable of contributing to the country’s healthcare system.
As she concluded her address, Anita quoted Edward Everett Hale to reinforce her message that everyone has a role to play in making a difference, regardless of the scale of their individual contribution.
“I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something,” she said.
She urged her fellow graduates to leave CUEA determined to lead with integrity, serve others and use their education to make a meaningful contribution to society.
“Congratulations, Class of 2026!” she wrapped up.