MADINAH, Saudi Arabia — A Ugandan diplomat has been named a recipient of the prestigious Islamic University of Madinah Distinguished Alumni Award, placing Uganda among only five countries recognized globally this year.
Ambassador Rashid Yahya Ssemuddu, Uganda’s envoy to the Republic of Sudan, received the Social Impact Award during the university’s 62nd graduation ceremony on April 27. The event was held under the patronage of Prince Salman bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the governor of the Al-Madinah region.
Ssemuddu was selected from a global pool of more than 150,000 alumni. The Social Impact category recognizes former students who have demonstrated meaningful contributions to society through community service, humanitarian initiatives, and volunteer work.
University officials cited Ssemuddu’s academic excellence, community service, and his role in representing the institution internationally as key factors for the honor.
The award was presented in the fifth edition of the program for the year 1447 AH. Uganda shared the global stage with recipients from France, the United Kingdom, the Philippines, Suriname, and Príncipe.
The distinguished alumni awards are divided into five categories, including professional achievement and sustainable development, innovation and entrepreneurship, scientific impact, and intellectual awareness.
Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the recognition as a symbol of national excellence and global respect. Ssemuddu has a long-standing reputation in diplomacy and has championed various educational and charitable causes both in Uganda and abroad.
With inputs from pml daily
