New Life Academy graduation celebrates excellence

It was a moment of pride, inspiration, and transformation as New Life Leadership Academy marked its 2nd graduation ceremony, leaving attendees moved by the profound impact of education on shaping future leaders in Uganda’s faith community.

Dr. Abraham S. Nalwebe, the Director of New Life Academy and representative of Transworld Accrediting Commission International in California, celebrated the remarkable progress of the academy’s graduates.

“The graduation was very, very good,” he remarked, visibly impressed by the students’ poise and newfound confidence.

Dr. Nalwebe revealed that many of the graduates had struggled with English when they first enrolled. However, through rigorous training, they not only mastered the language but also developed skills in public speaking – a critical tool for effective ministry.

“One should know how to speak in public,” he emphasized. “Many pastors don’t care whether their congregation is listening or not. They just talk and talk, and people lose interest. Our graduates are now trained to understand their audience and deliver impactful messages.”

He also called for a shift in Uganda’s religious teachings. “We preach too much and teach too little,” Dr. Nalwebe said, advocating for pastors to embrace more teaching to deepen their congregations’ understanding of salvation.

He urged those who missed this opportunity to join the academy, noting its flexible programs, some as short as three months, that equip learners with invaluable skills and certificates.

Adding to the ceremony’s inspiring narrative, Pastor Peter Mutebi, Overseer of Kawempe Pentecostal Churches, called for a renewed commitment to education among church leaders. With 660 churches under his leadership, Pastor Mutebi stressed the importance of being well-informed in a rapidly changing world.

“This generation is not for ignorant people,” he declared. “When you stand on the pulpit, young people in the congregation have already researched and interpreted the scriptures by the time you finish reading them. This is why education is critical. It has no money value or age limit.”

Pastor Mutebi lauded the academy’s affordable tuition fees, urging aspiring leaders to prioritize learning. He highlighted Uganda’s favorable environment for worship, crediting the country’s leadership for supporting religious freedoms.

“We have a president who loves worship and protects the freedom of worship rights,” he said, commending the academy’s role in nurturing educated and empowered leaders for the faith community.

Among the graduates was Kemigisha Edinah, who shared her transformation journey with pride. “When I joined, I couldn’t express myself in English, let alone address an audience,” she said. “But now, I am confident, equipped, and ready to serve in my church and community.”

Another graduate, Kakaire Moris, emphasized the importance of the academy’s practical approach to learning. “The training in public speaking and understanding our audience has been life-changing. I feel prepared to lead with both knowledge and humility,” he remarked, thanking the academy for shaping him into a better leader.

The event was a testament to New Life Leadership Academy’s mission to raise a generation of knowledgeable, skilled, and spiritually grounded leaders. As the graduates step into their next chapter, they carry not only certificates but also the promise of a transformed church that blends education with faith to build a better future.