Northrise University Holds the 18th Graduation Ceremony Under the Theme “Your Life is in God’s Hands”

Ndola, Zambia —30th May, 2025
In a celebration filled with gratitude, joy, and spiritual reflection, Northrise University held its 18th Graduation Ceremony at its main campus in Ndola. Under the resonant theme, “Your Life is in God’s Hands” (Hebrews 4:13), the university recognized the academic and spiritual milestones of the Class of 2025.

The day brought together graduates, faculty, families, and partners in a spirit of unity and achievement, honouring not only academic success but also the faith and resilience that define the Northrise experience.

A Ceremony of Faith and Celebration

The event opened with a vibrant academic procession, led by the stirring sounds of the Northrise University Choir. Reverence and celebration set the tone for the ceremony, which continued with an opening prayer, the Zambian National Anthem, and a welcome address by Vice Chancellor Dr. Moffat Zimba.

Honouring Academic Excellence

Degrees were officially conferred by Mrs. Doreen Zimba, Chancellor, and Mrs. Bernadette Mwiya, Academic Officer, following graduate presentations by Mr. Peter Lungu, Dean of the Faculty of Business and Law, and Prof. Jan Wium, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Science, and Technology.

Recognizing Top Graduates

Several outstanding graduates received special awards sponsored by Northrise University’s industry partners and alumni:

• Maimbo Kabinga (EMBA)—K5,000 from Big Tree Beverages

• Sula Ndundu (BBA)—K5,000 from the Northrise University Alumni Association

• Jeff Blessings Chalwe (BTH)—K5,000 from Mr. K. Liyena & Family

• Chipego Moono Chifuwe (LLB)—K5,000 from HCL Chartered Accountants

• Emmanuel Silungwe (BITWSD) – K5,000 from Mukuru

• Suwilanji Sichalwe (BFA)—K5,000 from Simply Smart

• Comfort Mwilambwe (BSc Nursing)—K5,000 and second-best overall graduate with a GPA of 3.68, sponsored by ACCA Zambia

Best Overall Graduate

The top honor went to Charmaine Kimoni (BSc in Nursing), who was awarded a plot of land worth K35,000, courtesy of Zambezi Diamond.

Words of Wisdom and Inspiration

In a moving Valedictory Address, Sheppa Kalunga (BITWSD) reflected on the transformative journey at Northrise:

“Northrise University did not simply give us the freedom to dream. It gave us the tools to build. It trained our minds, shaped our character, and grounded us in faith.”

Graduates were then officially welcomed into the alumni family in an induction ceremony led by Ms. Asifiwe Banda, BScCN’16, EMBA’21, Alumni Association Executive.

A Charge for the Journey Ahead

Vice Chancellor Dr. Moffat Zimba closed the ceremony with a heartfelt Charge to the Graduating Class, rooted in Isaiah 41:10:

“As you stand at the brink of a new chapter — one filled with exciting possibilities and touched by a bit of uncertainty — remember this profound truth: your future is in God’s hands.”

He encouraged graduates to:

• Embrace their journey with trust

• Pursue their dreams with faith

• Find strength in uncertainty

• Live with purpose and integrity

“May you walk with confidence, knowing you are held, guided, and loved — every step of the way. Congratulations.”

A Joyous Conclusion

Mr. Ian Cosh, Chair of the Northrise University Board of Trustees, delivered the Occasional Address, emphasizing that:

“Today is not an end, but a beginning — the start of a new chapter in your life. The future always begins in the present.”

Mr. Japo Mbetwa, University CFO, extended a heartfelt vote of thanks, and Pastor Lama led the closing prayer.

The celebration concluded with commemorative group photos — a moment to reflect, rejoice, and remember a day filled with faith, achievement, and hope for the future.

Congratulations to the Northrise Class of 2025! May you go forth and serve as leaders of purpose, integrity, and faith.