In the heart of Uganda lies Kampala International University (KIU), an institution that has quietly but powerfully become a cradle for nurturing the next generation of leaders in East Africa. Among its many success stories is that of Stella Kijange Lajiri, a dynamic leader whose remarkable achievements exemplify KIU’s impact on shaping future change-makers.
Stella’s journey from a first-year law student to an influential advocate for human rights and gender equality underscores KIU’s role as a transformative force in higher education. During her time at the university, Stella held key leadership roles that laid the foundation for her future. For example, she was the moot court representative for first-year law students in 2011, Legal Advisor to the Acholi Students Association in 2012, and Vice Chairperson of the KIU Guild Electoral Commission in 2013. Under her leadership, the Guild Union was reinstated, and the electoral college system was introduced—a testament to her ability to inspire reform and drive change.
“KIU gave me the platform to lead, challenge the status quo, and build the confidence needed to address real-world issues,” Stella reflects.
Bridging Education and Advocacy
Today, Stella is celebrated as one of the Top 100 Most Influential Young Women in Africa by Women Who Win Africa (2024). Her accolades include her role as the Minister of Gender, Youth, and Culture at Ker Kwaro Acoli, where she prioritises cultural preservation and youth empowerment. Her academic foundation at KIU, particularly her Bachelor of Laws degree, equipped her with the tools to excel in roles that demand strategic thinking and advocacy.
Her groundbreaking research on the impact of cultural practices on women’s rights to land ownership in the Acholi subregion—which earned her a Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice from the Law Development Centre—is another example of how KIU nurtures intellectual curiosity and a commitment to social justice.
A Ripple Effect of Leadership
The leadership training and opportunities Stella received at KIU have had a ripple effect far beyond the university’s walls. As the Executive Director of the Equal Empowerment Network (EENet) in Nwoya District, she has implemented programs to promote equity and justice for marginalised groups. Her roles as a Woman Member of Parliament candidate and host of the popular “Lawyers’ Corner” radio segment demonstrate her commitment to public service and education.
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“KIU instilled in me the values of service and community engagement,” Stella says. “The mentorship I received shaped my ability to lead with integrity and empathy.”
An Institution Committed to Transformation
KIU’s contribution to shaping East Africa’s leaders goes beyond academics. The university emphasizes experiential learning, leadership development, and community engagement. Stella’s journey—from being a Deputy Speaker of the NRM Youth League to becoming an Umoja Global Peace Ambassador for the Acholi subregion—is emblematic of KIU’s broader mission to produce leaders who drive social transformation.
In her professional pursuits, Stella continues to build on the foundation laid at KIU. Whether organising stakeholder meetings to combat gender-based violence in Kitgum District or serving as Secretary of the Child and Family Protection Committee under the Justice Law and Order Sector (JLOS), her work reflects the ethos of leadership cultivated at KIU.
Empowering a Generation
Stella Kijange Lajiri’s story is just one among many at Kampala International University. Through its programs, mentorship, and leadership training, KIU has established itself as a hub for grooming visionaries who tackle the region’s most pressing challenges. As East Africa continues to evolve, the university’s graduates are poised to play pivotal roles in shaping its future.
With alumni like Stella, KIU stands as a testament to the transformative power of education and leadership. The university is not just building careers; it is building a generation of leaders committed to creating a more equitable, just, and prosperous society for all.
