Uganda, Feb. 29 -- Gerald Malinga, graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Biomedical Laboratory Technology from Makerere University on January 31, 2024 during the weeklong Makerere University 74th graduation ceremony.

While many graduates sail through university without a hitch, Malinga's journey at Makerere University was a tale of persistence, determination, and an unwavering, blind faith in God. After joining university in 2016, Malinga, also known as Sponge Man, finally donned the much adored graduation gown.

"My hope is that my story inspires and encourages a young person out there who might be on the verge of giving up. I got admitted but lost out on the first year because I couldn't afford tuition. I hawked loofah sponges at home ...