09/04/2026
The feeling that comes when you hear the news that you have been selected to a public university or college by NCHE is something very difficult to explain. It is one of the best feelings you will ever undergo the culmination of years of hard work, late-night studying, and the high expectations of those around you. Anyone, regardless of the program they have been admitted into, rejoices. This is your moment, so enjoy it to the fullest. No one should restrict your joy or tell you how to celebrate. It is your great day, a milestone that marks the transition into a new chapter of your life.
However, once you step onto the university premises, the feeling changes its tone. The initial rush of the "selection" gradually shifts into the weight of the "journey." You quickly realize that being selected was simply the opening of a door; walking through that door requires a new kind of discipline and a very realistic outlook on life. You move from being a celebrated candidate to a student who must navigate a world of total freedom, but also a world of significant responsibilities.
One of the harshest realities you will face is the challenge of financial management. Whether you are at a large university or specialized institutions like Domasi College of Education or Nalikule College of Education, the "upkeep" or allowance money can be deceiving. It often feels like a lot when it first hits your pocket, but between stationery, meals, and daily needs, it disappears faster than you expect. Many students fall into the trap of "living big" in the first week only to struggle for the rest of the semester. You must learn to prioritize your needs over your wants immediately, as financial stress can easily distract you from your studies and affect your mental well-being.
To those of you who saw your names on the NCHE list today, congratulations on this massive achievement. Whether you are heading to UNIMA, MUBAS, MUST, LUANAR, MZUNI, KUHeS, or starting your teaching journey at Nalikule or Domasi, you should be incredibly proud. To those who did not find their names on the list this time, please do not let this moment break your spirit. The selection process is a narrow gate and many capable students miss out due to limited space, not limited potential. This is merely a detour, not a dead end. Whether you look toward private institutions, technical colleges, or upgrading, your future is still yours to write. Keep your head up and stay focused on your goals