On 23rd May 2026, the Department of Social Work held the Annual Social Workers Dinner at Oxford Hotel in Mbarara. The event brought together alumni currently serving in different fields of social work alongside continuing students, creating a valuable platform for engagement, networking and professional collaboration.
The dinner aimed to strengthen connections among social workers, allowing participants to share experiences, discuss challenges faced in the profession, and explore opportunities for growth and mutual support. The gathering also reflected the department’s commitment to nurturing professional relationships beyond the classroom.
The Vice-Chancellor & Guest of Honor, Prof. John F. Mugisha, delivered his keynote address online, encouraging social workers to embrace additional skills required in the 21st-century workplace to remain relevant and competitive. He emphasized the importance of communication, creativity and collaboration in unlocking future opportunities and addressing emerging societal needs.
Prof. Mugisha commended alumni for remaining connected to their alma mater and for demonstrating resilience in their professional journeys. He noted that, in line with the university’s strategic direction, student “alumnisation” remains an important aspect of the institution’s “Cambridgisation” agenda aimed at strengthening lifelong engagement between the university and its graduates.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Joshua, the Head of the Department of Social Work, called upon social workers to remain united and build trust among themselves to establish a strong support system within the profession. He thanked the alumni for their active involvement in organizing the dinner, describing the event as memorable and impactful. He further encouraged social workers to continue mobilizing their colleagues to participate in future gatherings in even greater numbers.
In a spirit of solidarity and compassion, students and alumni also launched a fundraising initiative aimed at supporting fellow social workers facing challenges.
