Busitema University, on 2 June 2026, held a farewell function in honour of Mrs. Sophia Alum Acon in recognition of her dedicated service and outstanding contribution to student welfare and development. Mrs. Acon served the University as Dean of Students for a total of thirteen years, including three years as the pioneer Dean of Students at the inception of the University and a further ten years during her second tenure from 2016 to 2026. Her leadership and commitment to student affairs have left an enduring impact on the institution and on the generations of students who passed through Busitema University.

The ceremony brought together members of the University's Top Management, Faculty Deans, staff from the Dean of Students' Department, representatives from various administrative units, the Guild President, and other members of staff. The gathering provided an opportunity for the University community to celebrate Mrs. Acon's remarkable service and reflect on the profound impact she has made on both students and the institution.

In their remarks, members of Top Management commended Mrs. Acon for her professionalism, commitment, and unwavering dedication to student welfare. They noted that throughout her tenure, she served with distinction and played a key role in creating a conducive environment for learning, personal growth, and student success.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Paul Waako, paid glowing tribute to Mrs. Acon for her exceptional service to the University. He described her as a dedicated leader whose commitment to student welfare greatly contributed to the institution's growth and reputation.

“Mrs. Sophia Acon served Busitema University with dedication, professionalism, and a genuine passion for student welfare. Her contribution has left a lasting mark on the institution, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of staff and students,” Prof. Waako said.

Speaker after speaker praised Mrs. Acon for her approachable leadership style and her ability to guide students through various challenges during their academic journey. Many attributed the success of numerous graduates to the mentorship, guidance, and support she provided over the years. They noted that her contribution helped the University produce responsible and productive graduates who continue to serve society in various capacities.

The Guild President, Kamara Onesmus, paid tribute to Mrs. Acon for maintaining an open-door policy throughout her years of service. He described her as more than an administrator, noting that for many students she was a mentor and mother figure who was always ready to listen, advise, and support them whenever the need arose.

Kamara commended her efforts in strengthening student engagement and fostering a positive relationship between the student community and the University administration. He noted that Mrs. Acon's leadership positively impacted generations of students and contributed significantly to creating a conducive environment for learning and personal development at Busitema University.

Colleagues from the Dean of Students' Department and the units under her leadership shared fond memories of working with her. They described her as a supportive supervisor, a dependable colleague, and a source of inspiration whose guidance enabled many staff members to grow professionally. They noted that her door was always open, her counsel was thoughtful, and her commitment to service never wavered.

The speakers further recognized Mrs. Acon's role in nurturing a culture of teamwork, mutual respect, and excellence within the department. They celebrated not only her years of service but also the relationships she built, the lives she touched, and the positive work environment she fostered throughout her tenure.

In recognition of her outstanding service to the University, Mrs. Acon received several gifts and tokens of appreciation from the Dean of Students' Department and the various units she supervised. The presentations reflected the gratitude, admiration, and respect she earned from colleagues and the wider University community during her years of service.

Speaking at the function, Mrs. Acon expressed her heartfelt appreciation to the University Council, Management, staff, and students for the support and cooperation they accorded her throughout her tenure. She reflected on the many memorable experiences she shared with students and colleagues and expressed pride in having contributed to the growth and transformation of Busitema University.

“I am grateful to Busitema University for entrusting me with the responsibility of serving our students over the years. The experiences, friendships, and memories I have gained will always remain special to me. I thank Management, colleagues, and students for the support they accorded me throughout this journey,” Mrs. Acon said.

She encouraged staff members to continue serving students with dedication, fairness, and compassion, emphasizing that universities have a responsibility not only to impart knowledge but also to shape character and prepare young people for responsible citizenship and leadership.

The farewell event was marked by warm tributes, gift presentations, shared memories, and moments of celebration that highlighted the immense impact Mrs. Acon has had on the University community.

As she concludes her service as Dean of Students, Busitema University extends its sincere gratitude to Mrs. Sophia Acon for thirteen years of exemplary leadership, commitment, and selfless service. While her tenure in office has come to an end, the impact of her leadership, mentorship, and dedication to student welfare will continue to be felt across the University for many years to come. The University wishes her good health, happiness, and success in her future endeavours.