Nairobi, Kenya — Adventist University of Africa (AUA) joyously celebrated its 14th Graduation Ceremony from June 6 to June 8, 2025, marking a momentous milestone in its mission to nurture competent and spiritually grounded leaders across Africa and beyond. The event was a vibrant showcase of academic achievement, spiritual growth, and unwavering commitment to service, drawing together graduates, faculty, church leaders, families, and friends in a truly celebratory atmosphere.
This year’s ceremony was distinguished by inspiring addresses from eminent guest speakers — Dr. Vanny Munyumbwe, Dr. Hudson Kibuuka, and Dr. Pierre Omeler — each offering powerful messages centered on service, faith, and leadership rooted in biblical principles.
A Consecration of Purpose: Dr. Vanny Munyumbwe’s Address
During the consecration service, Dr. Munyumbwe emphasized the importance of education that serves humanity. Reflecting on Acts 7:22, he highlighted that Moses, though highly educated, remained connected to his roots and was used by God to correct injustice. “An education that does not help you serve the common man is not true education,” he stated. He urged graduates to remain humble and receptive to God’s calling, cautioning that excessive education can sometimes hinder divine use if not paired with humility and spiritual sensitivity. “We are sending you out as an axe in the hand of God,” he proclaimed, reminding graduates that spiritual abilities are bestowed by God’s Spirit, not by human might.
Faith and Character: Dr. Kibuuka’s Baccalaureate Message
In his inspiring address, Dr. Hudson Kibuuka focused on faith that rests solely on God’s wisdom rather than human understanding. Drawing from the story of Ruth and the blessings of the Kinsman Redeemer, he exhorted graduates to embody characteristics of those empowered by divine grace—love for Christ, abhorrence of evil, prayerfulness, and integrity. He emphasized that true empowerment comes through active faith and producing the fruit of the Spirit, urging graduates to live lives of total commitment and trust in God’s guidance. “Blessed and powerful are you who glean in the field of the Kinsman Redeemer,” he affirmed.
A Call to Service: Dr. Omeler’s Commencement Address
Closing the ceremonies, Dr. Pierre Omeler challenged graduates to trust in the mission of the church, in their dreams, and most importantly, in God’s perfect plan. He encouraged them to become innovative leaders motivated by service rather than personal gain. “Greatness is not measured by what you gain but by what you give,” he emphasized. His words resonated deeply as he urged graduates to go forth with Christ, leading with wisdom, humility, and a servant’s heart.
A Proud Moment for a Growing Institution
This year’s graduation saw an impressive total of 123 graduates, including 104 master’s and 19 doctoral degrees, representing diverse nationalities across Africa and beyond. The graduates come from various divisions such as ECD, SID, and WAD, and have earned degrees spanning leadership, theology, public health, computer science, and more. The class of 2025 joins a proud lineage of over 1,000 graduates who are actively shaping the church, society, and the world.
A Future Bright with Hope and Purpose
As the graduates received their diplomas, they were not only celebrated for their academic excellence but also commissioned as ambassadors of faith and service. The ceremony reaffirmed AUA’s mission of developing leaders who will serve with integrity, humility, and unwavering commitment to Christ’s mission.
Closing Remarks
The 14th graduation of AUA was a testament to the university’s dedication to excellence in education and spiritual development. It was an inspiring reminder that true leadership stems from a heart committed to service, guided by divine wisdom, and rooted in biblical truth.
Congratulations to all graduates of 2025 — may you go forth to serve, to lead, and to make a lasting impact for the glory of God!
Add a Comment