A spirit of celebration filled the halls of Protea Hotel Kololo as the Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) held a landmark graduation ceremony. Over 100 Rotarians, Rotaractors, and for the first time in history, two Interactors successfully completed the institute’s rigorous leadership training.
The graduates are now equipped with essential skills in leadership, strategic planning, club growth, and effective public speaking. The program is designed to prepare them as transformational leaders within their communities. This year's cohort included 86 participants in the undergraduate program and 17 in the graduate class, reflecting Rotary’s steadfast commitment to continuous leadership development across all generations.
In his keynote address, Guest of Honor Rtn. Andrew Kigumba Muguluma praised the graduates for embracing facilitated learning. He emphasized that this modern, interactive approach places the Rotarian at the center of the learning process. Unlike traditional one-way teaching, facilitation encourages reflection, collaboration, and the co-creation of solutions tailored to the unique challenges faced by clubs and communities.
"Facilitated learning will transform Rotary by moving us from passive listeners to active change agents, better equipped to deliver meaningful service to our communities," Rtn. Muguluma remarked.
The ceremony was marked by extraordinary moments that underscored the deep dedication within the Rotary family. One graduate, balancing both personal and Rotary milestones, attended the session on his wedding day. After a brief departure to exchange vows at a church, he returned in time to graduate alongside his class before heading back to his reception. This remarkable story drew admiration from all attendees, serving as a powerful testament to the commitment of Rotary’s members.
This graduation stands as a powerful affirmation of Rotary’s investment in innovative leadership development. By nurturing leaders who are not only well-trained but also deeply engaged, Rotary continues to position itself as a movement capable of driving meaningful and lasting change worldwide.
The writer is a Faculty Member of RLI