Kasekende with his father
A son of a boda boda rider was among the more than 8,000 graduands who completed their studies at Makerere University’s 76th graduation ceremony, held between February 24 and February 27.
Kasekende Fulugensio graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) from Uganda’s oldest and most prestigious university, marking a major personal milestone and a moment of pride for his family.
Kasekende, whose father earns a living as a boda boda rider, shared his achievement on social media, reflecting on the long journey from humble beginnings to the medical profession.
“A son of a boda rider graduates with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from Makerere University. From dusty streets to hospital wards — this is God’s grace,” Kasekende wrote on his X (formerly Twitter) account.
He added a verse from the Quran: “So which of the favors of my Lord shall I deny?” — attributing his success to faith, perseverance, and divine grace.
Photos shared online showing Kasekende with his proud father — one taken beside the family motorcycle in a busy market and another on Makerere University campus in graduation regalia — quickly went viral. The images attracted over 8,000 likes and hundreds of congratulatory messages celebrating parental sacrifice, resilience, and the power of education.
Fellow graduates, medical professionals, and members of the public praised the achievement as a powerful reminder that socio-economic background does not determine destiny.
The story has resonated widely across Uganda, where many families struggle to finance higher education amid rising living costs. It highlights the sacrifices made by informal sector workers and the transformative impact of education.
Makerere University’s 76th graduation ceremony saw thousands of students awarded degrees and diplomas across various disciplines, with Kasekende’s journey standing out as a symbol of hope, determination, and social mobility.
About The Author
