By Christine Niyosenga

KIU, MAIN CAMPUS-When Gift Kukundakwe walked through the gates of Kampala International University in 2021 to begin her Bachelor of Laws degree, she was driven by more than academic ambition. She was driven by a deep curiosity about the legal system and a desire to utilize the law as a tool for justice and change.

As she prepares to graduate at KIU’s 31st Graduation Ceremony on Saturday, July 26th, 2025, Kukundakwe reflects on her four-year journey at Uganda’s best private university with pride and gratitude.

“I’ve always wanted to understand and navigate the complexities of the legal system,” she said in a recent interview. “Studying law felt like the natural path for me, one where I could gain the knowledge to not only empower myself but also positively contribute to my community.”

While academics formed a crucial part of her journey, Kukundakwe said her experience at KIU was far more holistic. “KIU didn’t just teach me law. It taught me how to think critically, solve problems, and see the bigger picture,” she said.

“More to that, I met legal professional mentors who inspired and shaped me, plus friends who helped me grow socially, academically, and professionally,” Kukundakwe added.

Kukundakwe's experience as Minister of Moots in the KIU Law Society proved instrumental in honing her advocacy and public speaking skills. She particularly cherished coordinating moot activities and engaging with fellow students, especially during the annual Law Week. "It was a highlight of every year," she recalled. "We'd interact with senior legal minds, network with colleagues, and feel part of something bigger than ourselves."

Unlike many students’ stories filled with hardship, Kukundakwe described her time at KIU as “smooth and rewarding”.

“There’s no major challenge I can recall,” she said. “Everything was well‑structured, and the administration truly worked hard to ensure that each student had a comfortable learning environment. I’m so grateful for that.”

With her undergraduate degree complete, Kukundakwe will enrol at the Law Development Centre to pursue a postgraduate diploma in legal practice.

As KIU marks 25 years of academic excellence, she offered a message to administrators and students alike.

“To the university management, thank you for creating a place where students can thrive. And to current and future KIU students, embrace your journey. You are going to have a good time here.”

Kukundakwe’s story shows what happens when passion meets opportunity. With a solid foundation behind her and a promising legal future ahead, she is poised to become a force for justice in her community and beyond.