In a speech during Victoria University’s 7th Graduation Ceremony at Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala on September 14, 2023, Ms Janet Museveni, the First Lady and Minister for Education and Sports, emphasized the importance of graduates being prepared for future challenges. She was represented by Mr. Thomas Tayebwa, the Deputy Speaker of Parliament.
Ms. Museveni commended the university for adopting technological innovations and urged graduates to be resilient, uphold integrity, and show compassion while serving the nation. She noted that the job industry is constantly evolving due to technological advancements, economic shifts, and global events, and graduates need to adapt accordingly.
Furthermore, Ms. Museveni encouraged graduates to be vigilant against HIV/AIDS. Mr. Tayebwa also called for universities to collaborate, highlighting that partnerships can strengthen universities, provide research funds, and offer job opportunities for students. He cited examples of government universities already utilizing academic information management systems and encouraged others to follow suit.
Prof. John Opuda Asibo, the university chancellor, urged graduates to combat corruption and apply the knowledge they have acquired. He cautioned against being driven by destructive tendencies such as the pursuit of power, property, prestige, popularity, and corruption.
Mr. Lawrence Muganga, the Vice-Chancellor of Victoria University, appealed to the government to implement policies that support the use of technology in education. He requested tax exemptions on technology gadgets imported by universities and called on companies and organizations to collaborate with educational institutions, offering their workplaces as learning environments.
A total of 548 students graduated in various disciplines during the ceremony, which centered around the theme “Future-proofing learning for you.”