UCU Scholar
Welcome to the Uganda Christian University Scholar
It aims to collect, preserve and showcase the intellectual output of undergraduate students of UCU. This growing collection of research includes dissertations, Extended Essays, Past Exam Papers, Research Reports, and more.
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- These are Undergraduate Student Reports for UCU Science Students
Recent Submissions
Assessing the Viability of Algal Biodiesel as a Supplement to Liquid Fossil Fuels in Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-02) Marvin Aheebwa Ashaba
Uganda faces energy security, open economies and environmental degradation due to heavy reliance on fossil fuels. This study investigates the viability of algal biodiesel as a supplement to liquid fossil fuels, leveraging Uganda's tropical climate. Three species of algae, namely Botryococcus braunii, Nannochloropsis sp., and Chlorella vulgaris, were evaluated under optimised conditions for species compatibility, lipid extraction yield, and biodiesel quality. Results indicated that Chlorella vulgaris is the most suitable species for decentralized systems, as it displayed the highest growth rate (13.4 cm biomass on Day 12) and a moderate lipid yield (20–30%). Diethyl ether-isopropanol achieved the highest yield at 83.1% but posed safety concerns, while hexane-isopropanol represented the best compromise between viability and effectiveness. The biodiesel characteristics partially met ASTM requirements; viscosity (2.82 mm²/s) and density (0.8335 g/cm³) were compliant, but cetane values of 5.2 required blending with petrodiesel (B20). Algal biodiesel is techno-feasible in Uganda, benefiting from low-cost open-pond systems, cooperative models at the community level, and the integration of wastewater treatment to address energy poverty, promote environmental sustainability, and support a circular economy concept.
Unlocking Economic Potential
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-28) Kirabo Katimbo Shantal
This work addresses the critical challenge of safeguarding Uganda's Traditional Medicine (TM). While TM is a vital healthcare resource and a cornerstone of the nation's cultural heritage, its significant economic potential remains largely unrealized. Despite Uganda's existing Intellectual Property (IP) policies and international commitments, key gaps persist. These include slow legal operationalization and a fundamental incompatibility between conventional IP systems and the communal, orally transmitted nature of traditional knowledge. This situation is worsened by a widespread lack of IP awareness among traditional healers and insufficient documentation of their knowledge. This deficit in IP awareness directly impedes equitable commercialization and heightens the threat of biopiracy. Foreign entities can exploit these vulnerabilities to appropriate communally owned knowledge without compensation, eroding indigenous sovereignty and cultural identity. The core purpose of this study is to propose effective IP protection strategies for Traditional Herbal Medicine in Uganda. This aims to ensure both economic empowerment and the enduring preservation of cultural heritage. It advocates for adapting successful global models to Uganda's unique socio-cultural and economic context through expedited policy implementation, targeted IP capacity building, and robust benefit-sharing mechanisms.
THE IMPACT OF FINANCE PRACTICES ON THE PERFORMANCE OF AGRICULTURAL SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES IN MUKONO
(UGANDA CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY, 2025-04-29) EKWANG JONATHAN
This research proposal aims to investigate the impact of finance practices on the performance of agricultural Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Finance practices play a vital role in the financial management and decision-making processes of agricultural SMEs, yet there is a gap in understanding the specific practices that contribute to improved performance. This study seeks to address this gap by examining the relationship between finance practices and the performance indicators of revenue, profitability, and cash flow within agricultural SMEs.
The research will adopt a mixed-methods approach, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. The quantitative analysis will involve collecting financial data from a sample of agricultural SMEs and conducting statistical analyses to identify the finance practices that correlate with superior performance. Additionally, qualitative data will be gathered through interviews and surveys to explore the challenges faced by agricultural SMEs in implementing effective finance practices.
The anticipated findings of this research proposal will contribute to the existing literature by identifying the specific finance practices that have the greatest impact on agricultural SMEs performance. Moreover, it will shed light on the challenges faced by SMEs in implementing these practices and provide recommendations for overcoming such obstacles. Ultimately, this study aims to provide practical insights and guidance to agricultural SME owners and managers, policy makers, and industry stakeholders, enabling them to enhance financial performance and promote the growth and sustainability of agricultural SMEs in the current dynamic business environment.
Evaluating the Impact of Payroll Fraud on Organizational Performance Case study of Stanbic Bank-Head Office
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-09-02) Bernadette Ilunga Nkulu
The influence of payroll fraud on organizational performance: a case of Stanbic Bank-Head
office. The general purpose of this research is to establish the influence of payroll fraud on
ghost workers, false wage claims, and false expense claims. Pursuing the objectives of this
research, a survey design was undertaken and questionnaires with 5-point Likert summated
rating scales were used. It was analyzed based on multiple regression analysis, and it has
identified the result that ghost workers, false expense claims, and false wage claims are found
to be the major factors affecting the organizational performance at Stanbic Bank- Head office.
Increase in ghost workers negatively affects the organizational performance of Stanbic Bank
but not significant when measured against the false expense claims and false wage claims. This
means that Stanbic Bank may not grow into developing the potential to help reduce or eradicate
unemployment if pragmatic decisions are not taken concerning this. The findings of the paper
concluded that proper management of variables on payroll fraud should be encouraged in the
Bank.
Unemployment Access and Well-being of Refugees Youth on Crime in Adjumani District West Nile Region North Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-07) Juach Bul Garang
The study's goal was to investigate how youth crime rates in Mukono Central Division, Mukono District, are affected by unemployment. The study's goals included assessing the factors that contribute to youth unemployment and its causes, examining the effects of unemployment on crime rates, and developing strategies to lower both rates. The study employed the use of a cross-sectional research design which involved the use of both qualitative and quantitative research approaches. The sample totaled 118 individuals, including unemployed youth, police officers, division political leaders, the town clerk, the mayor, and a community development officer. These were deliberately and randomly selected. Information was gathered via questionnaires, focus group discussion guides, and interview guides. Thematic content analysis was used to examine the qualitative data, and SPSS was used for statistical analysis. According to study findings, the main causes of youth unemployment and the variables influencing it in Mukono Central Division are skill mismatches between the educational system and employers' expectations, restricted access to financial capital, insufficient or lack of skills to join the informal sector, and rural-urban migration. It also demonstrated that youth unemployment leads to destitution, which later encourages criminal activity as a means of income, that high unemployment rates are "push factors" for young people to join gangs and commit robberies or participate in political violence, that the lack of options for legal employment forces youth to engage in illegal activities, and that youth inaction, which lengthens the period of unemployment, contributes to an increase in violent crimes. These are the key conclusions. In the end, it was determined that education, the introduction of welfare benefits specifically for unemployed youth, the participation of unemployed youth in entrepreneurial training and skills development, and the government's commitment to combating youth unemployment by launching programs like youth funds are the main ways to reduce youth unemployment and wrongdoings in Mukono Central Division. However, it can be inferred from the study's results that unemployment has an impact on juvenile misbehavior in Mukono Central Division.
Gummy Candy Enriched With Beta-carotene From Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato and Mango
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-06-10) Nowemigisha Isabel
Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) is a prevalent public health challenge in Uganda, especially among children and women, making the development of food-based interventions necessary. This study aimed to develop beta-carotene-fortified gummy candies using orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) and mango by optimising the formulation of the candy with respect to consumer acceptability and analysing the beta-carotene and vitamin A content of the optimised formulation. An experimental design was used, particularly Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used to optimise the ingredients, i.e Orange Fleshed Sweet Potato (OFSP), gelatin, and honey. Beta-carotene content was analysed using UV-Vis spectrophotometry. The optimised formulation contained 68.6% OFSP, 5.50% gelatin, and 15% honey and beta-carotene content of 3.225 ± 0.003 mg/kg, which is 26.9 µg RAE/100g, providing only 6.7% of a child’s daily vitamin A requirement. Further research should investigate beta-carotene retention during processing and storage, and comparison tests with other commercial products should be done. This study can improve food biofortification and food nutrition security.
The Efficacy of Plea Bargaining in the Promotion of the Criminal Justice: Pros and Cons
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-21) Frank Nyesigire
The efficiency of plea bargaining in the criminal justice system is examined critically in this study with reference to its operational, legal, and ethical issues. As a mechanism primarily used to expedite criminal cases and alleviate court congestion, plea bargaining has been a central component of most justice systems around the world. However, greater reliance on it throws grave doubts regarding fairness, voluntariness, and undermining fundamental rights. The study explores the historical development of plea bargaining, its statutory basis in various jurisdictions, and the different forms it can take, i.e., charge bargaining, sentence bargaining, and fact bargaining. It also explores the theoretical justifications which lend legitimacy to its practice, i.e., efficiency, resource management, and promoting judicial economy. However, it also refers to criticism that frames plea bargaining as a procedure that may compel defendants to waive their right to a fair trial under unfair bargaining terms and with limited understanding of the consequences. Methodologically, the study adopts a mixed approach: doctrinal analysis to examine statutory provisions and case law governing plea bargaining, and qualitative data gathered through questionnaires with legal professionals such as judges, prosecutors, and defense lawyers. This allows for a thorough understanding of the way plea bargaining works in practice and whether it is effective in its desired outcomes. The findings indicate that although plea bargaining can significantly reduce delays and expenses of trials, it may also compromise the ideals of justice by prioritizing expediency over the discovery of truth. Inequalities in legal representation, the discretion of prosecutors, and the limited supervision of judges often result in unequal outcomes. The research underscores the need for stricter procedural protections, greater transparency, and more standardized practices to ensure that plea bargains are truly voluntary, informed, and equitable. Lastly, the study argues that while plea bargaining is a good and precious institution in modern criminal justice systems, its efficacy must be quantified not only on the criterion of efficiency but also in respect for the rule of law and protection of individual rights. The article demands reforms aimed to enhance accountability, reduce coercion, and unify legal protections for defendants in plea agreements.
Assessing the Impact and Effects of Cyber Operations Under International Humanitarian Law in Kenya
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-21) Luke Gafa
Africa’s development and growth of Information and Communication technology has magnified. Digitalizing development and social economic development have coexisted, Kenya, Ethiopia and other African countries tell us the future of Armed conflict of a Non international and an International character. Common article 3 of the Geneva conventions provides for conflict that is not of an international character between organised groups and a high contracting party, or between organised groups themselves. Organised in the sense of having a leader, with a structure of command given from him. Considering the scale and effects of cyber operations, should constitute an armed conflict in that it should be targeting the high contracting party. Prohibition of attacks against civilians also applies to cyber operations because civilians are totally protected under IHL (NIACs) unless taking participation in these cyber operations. It is important to note that even if a cyber operation in a non international armed conflict does not rise to the level of armed conflict, that does not make the attacks legal.
A Legal Analysis of the Impact of Oil Spills on the Environment in the Area of Hoima District
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-18) Judith Afoyorwoth
This study examines the legal impact of oil spills on the environment in Hoima District, Uganda, focusing on the effectiveness of existing legal frameworks in mitigating environmental degradation. The research adopts a qualitative approach, utilising a doctrinal and analytical research design to assess legal compliance, environmental consequences, and regulatory gaps. Primary and secondary data sources, including legal statutes, environmental reports, and case studies from comparable oil-producing regions, are analysed through content and comparative analysis. The study evaluates Uganda’s legal regime, including the National Environment Act Cap 181 and the Petroleum (Exploration, Development, and Production) Act Cap 161, against international standards such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the African Convention on Conservation of Nature. Findings reveal significant gaps in enforcement, corporate accountability, and community participation, leading to persistent environmental harm, including soil degradation, water contamination, and biodiversity loss. The study concludes that while Uganda’s legal framework is robust on paper, weak implementation, regulatory capture, and insufficient remediation mechanisms undermine its effectiveness. Recommendations include strengthening institutional capacity, adopting stricter liability measures, enhancing public participation, and integrating international best practices to ensure sustainable oil exploration and environmental justice in Hoima District.
Balancing Between Law Enforcement and Human Rights of Detainees
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-19) Jerom Okware
This dissertation examines the role of corporate governance in mitigating financial distress within Uganda’s real estate and construction sectors. Financial distress in these sectors has been linked to poor management, weak governance, and adverse macroeconomic factors, which undermine business performance and sustainability. The study aims to analyze how effective corporate governance practices are such as risk management, board oversight, and strategic planning and how to improve financial stability and reduce the likelihood of distress. Using a desktop review approach, data were collected through a review of literature, financial reports from key firms in the sectors.
Intricacy of Plea Bargain in Uganda Criminal Justice
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-16) Leslie Stephanas Dogo
Through the aid of desk review, this study examines the extent to which plea bargain has facilitated in the promotion, protection and enforcement of justice in Uganda’s criminal justice system. The study highlights how plea bargain have been a tool in the alleviation of case backlogs in Uganda, protection of the rights of accused persons, reduction of prison congestion alongside improvement of inmates’ health condition, promotion of reconciliation rather than retribution and also put an end to unpredictable lengthy litigation.
In evaluation of the nature of plea bargain, amid the several benefits which plea bargain inputs in to Uganda’s criminal justice system, statistics and studies have shown that plea bargain while addressing the shortcomings of the pre-existing procedure for criminal litigation, plea bargain has apposition new challenges which goes against both its core objectives and the principles of law which governs the administration of justice.
All things considered, while understanding the positive roles of plea bargain programs in Uganda and how it tends to create new challenges, it is kin to acknowledge how all this affects the accused individual(s), the aggrieved party, and the society at large.
The Implication of Unregulated Cryptocurrency Business on the Financial Industry in Uganda (a Case on Consumer Protection)
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-29) Noble Nomwesigwa
This thesis presents the effects of non-regulation of cryptocurrencies in Uganda. Cryptocurrencies are a form of digital or virtual currency generated, exchanged and distributed exclusively online. They have been an issue with want of regulation since 2017 as the National Bank has time and time again released circulars informing the population not to partake in the purchase or even trading of these currencies. Recently, the Central bank restricted all its licenses from cashing out proceeds from the crypto currency business, which sparked legal action and a deeper question into why instead of regulating the sphere, the Central bank and other concerned parties (parliament) do not draft legislation regulating the sphere. In this thesis, we shall explore the different regulatory measures that have been undertaken in other jurisdictions to ensure that the rights of the users of cryptocurrencies are protected from the uncertainties that arise as a result of non-regulation of the cryptocurrencies.
Attend Sure :Revolutionizing Students' Engagement with Attendance Tracking In Education
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-14) BUSHENYULA SHEBAKANGA THEOPHILE; KALETE LYTON; MAYIKA KOLONGO GRADY
Many higher education institutions continue to rely on manual methods for tracking student attendance, methods that are time-consuming, error-prone, and vulnerable to manipulation. At Uganda Christian University, for example, 75% of student failures are attributed to poor attendance, while 80% of students report a lack of academic motivation. These inefficiencies not only compromise academic record accuracy but also reduce administrative productivity.
This report presents Attend Sure, a location-aware digital attendance management system designed to address these challenges through automation and geofencing technology. The system verifies student presence within a designated geographic boundary (e.g., N Block or Nkoyoyo Hall) before allowing them to check in via a secure mobile interface.
To ensure robust development, the project undertook a comprehensive system analysis and design process, including the identification of functional and non-functional requirements, process modeling using data flow and sequence diagrams, and database design through an Entity Relationship Diagram (ERD). The system backend is built using MongoDB, a flexible and scalable NoSQL database optimized for real-time data storage and retrieval. Attend Sure offers distinct user interfaces for administrators, lecturers, and students, supporting efficient role-based access and functionality.
By digitizing attendance workflows, the solution enhances accuracy, reduces administrative burden, and provides reliable data for monitoring student engagement, thereby contributing to smarter, tech-enabled campus management.
Medi_Link: A Digital Health Platform Enhancing Maternal Care in Rural Uganda
(2025-05-12) BALIGEYA DEOGRATIUS; JANE SANDE EVANS
Medi_Link is a digital health platform developed to improve maternal health in rural Uganda by addressing challenges such as poor healthcare access, infrastructure limitations, and shortages of skilled professionals. Key features include virtual consultations, personalized health tips, emergency first aid guidance, and digital medical records. Built with technologies like React, Vite, and TypeScript, it supports low-bandwidth and offline use to suit rural conditions. The platform promotes remote care, continuity in maternal health, and aims to reduce maternal mortality and improve healthcare experiences for mothers and children.
Final Year Project Report
(2025-05-14) Musiimire Emilly
This report presents Phalanx, a web based Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) developed to provide real-time detection and prevention of network intrusions.
Phalanx IPS is a highly intelligent, web-based security system developed to reinforce network protection through automated identification and blocking of cyber attacks. Phalanx IPS is for the Information Systems (UCU UIS) at Uganda Christian University to counteract the inadequacies of traditional firewall and open-source systems that present complicated setups and manual controls.
The framework combines real-time packet analysis, Snort-based signature and anomaly detection, and automated response mechanisms via ip_tables. It features a user-friendly web console for monitoring, managing rules, reporting, and prevention. Phalanx facilitates security efficacy with minimal human intervention and responding in real-time to the threat.
Utilizing a structured SDLC process, the solution has been tested and deployed in a production network environment. It is a scalable and proactive solution to the security problems of the present day.
This report details the design, development, and deployment of the system, showcasing how Phalanx addresses the need for advanced, web based intrusion prevention solutions in modern network security.
ATTENDANCE TRACKING SYSTEM MOBILE APPLICATION THAT USES BLUETOOTH SENSING TECHNOLOGY
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-27) CODE HUB
This project focuses on the development of a mobile-based Attendance Tracking System
using Bluetooth sensing technology to automate and streamline attendance recording. The
system detects Bluetooth-enabled devices within a set range and automatically marks
attendance when a registered user is nearby. It is developed using React Native, Bluetooth
Low Energy API, FireBase Django , Node Js, Firestore, and Firebase], the app includes key
features such as real-time tracking, automatic check-in/out, and an admin dashboard for
record management. This method reduces manual errors, saves time, and prevents proxy
attendance. Testing showed reliable performance and efficient data handling, proving it to be
a practical solution for institutions and workplaces.
LOCATING JOBS AND TRACKING AGRICULTURAL PRODUCE
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-24) KUTEESA GIDEON
This project report details the development of FarmConnect, a platform designed to modernize agricultural logistics in Uganda by connecting farmers and transporters through Information Communication Technologies. Recognizing the challenges of unreliable transportation and the need for enhanced security and product integrity, FarmConnect initially focused on real-time driver tracking. This report outlines the project lifecycle, development process, and critically, proposes future enhancements to address feedback regarding cargo security, product quality assurance, and theft prevention, aiming to create a more trustworthy and efficient agricultural supply chain.
AGRILINK- A WEB-BASED PLATFORM CONNECTING FARMERS TO BUYERS
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-17) Vangamoi Emmanuel
The Impact of Land Related Disputes on Women's Livelihood in Sebei
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-30) Aeko Faith Martha
The advent of land related disputes on women’s livelihoods within Sebei region has sparked an intense debate about the issues that arise out of such disputes. While there are various laws and literature that have tried to solve this issue, it still remains underscored and still a major problem affecting how the women live their lives.
This work analyzes and examines the tension between these land related disputes, highlighting the loopholes within the current laws and other various literature. A critical analysis of the laws depicts that there is a gap in the realization of women’s rights. The research argues for a more nuanced approach, one that reconciles the law with rights of women.
A Right to Inclusive Education for Persos with Disabilities in Universities in Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-23) Acam Elizabeth Christine
Uganda has progressive laws and policies that promote inclusive education at all levels. This dissertation examines the realization of the right to inclusive education for persons with disabilities in universities. The study uses desktop research to look at legal documents, policies, and academic writings. The study finds that some public universities have made efforts like creating disability support centres and admitting students with disabilities through an affirmative action scheme. However, most private universities fall short of this practice. Generally, in both public and private universities, students with disabilities are experiencing exclusion due to inaccessible buildings, a lack of support services, and limited awareness among university staff. This dissertation recommends staff training on disability inclusion, increasing funding, modifying infrastructure, adapting ICT and library services, and implementing disability policies to realize disability inclusion in universities.