Victoria University has graduated more than 2,500 students at its 10th graduation ceremony held at Speke Resort Munyonyo, with university leaders challenging the graduates to embrace technological innovation, continuously upgrade their skills and develop solutions to Uganda’s development challenges.
Held under the theme “The Future Is Here,” the first day of the ceremony brought together graduands from the Faculty of Science and Technology and the Faculty of Health Sciences. The event highlighted the growing importance of digital competence, practical skills and adaptability in preparing graduates for an increasingly technology-driven world of work.
The university reported that 89 per cent of the graduands on the first day were already employed, while more than 40 per cent were pursuing science-related courses. The institution attributed the employment figures partly to a flexible learning model that allows students to pursue their studies while maintaining their professional responsibilities.
Speaking at the ceremony, Victoria University Chancellor Professor John Lawrence Opuda-Asibo urged graduates to prioritise practical skills and continuous learning, particularly as artificial intelligence continues to transform workplaces and professional practices.
Opuda-Asibo warned that graduates risk becoming less competitive if they ignore emerging technologies. He emphasised the need to understand and use artificial intelligence to remain relevant in the modern economy.
Victoria University Vice-Chancellor Professor Lawrence Muganga challenged the graduands to embrace what he described as a new world order driven by technology, artificial intelligence and blockchain innovations.
Muganga cautioned against dismissing technological advancements as developments meant for other parts of the world, arguing that African countries must also equip their populations with the skills needed to benefit from these changes.
He said the graduates had been equipped with digital skills and trained to use emerging technologies, urging them to remain adaptable as innovation continues to reshape the world of work.
Beyond technical skills, Muganga emphasised the importance of professional relationships and adaptability in the workplace. He urged graduates to work constructively with their supervisors, understand different leadership styles and remain open to continuous learning to maintain their relevance in changing professional environments.
Muganga said the university’s learning model was designed to allow students to balance education with employment, enabling them to advance their qualifications while gaining practical workplace experience.
Delivering the keynote address, Tim Abels urged graduates to identify their strengths early, invest in personal development and cultivate a culture of research, innovation and self-directed learning.
Abels encouraged graduands to start developing their ideas rather than waiting for ideal conditions, arguing that they should take the initiative in creating innovations that respond to emerging needs.
He also emphasised the importance of physical fitness and personal well-being, urging young graduates to invest in their health as they prepare for the demands of their professional lives.
Victoria University Council Chairman Dr Joseph N. Biribonwa said the institution would continue strengthening its learning environment and improving facilities to equip students with skills relevant to the changing demands of the economy.
Biribonwa challenged the graduates to demonstrate the practical value of their education by becoming problem-solvers, innovators and entrepreneurs.
He urged them not to depend solely on existing employment opportunities but to develop the confidence to establish businesses, create jobs and apply their knowledge to challenges affecting their communities.
The graduands welcomed the milestone, expressing their commitment to applying the knowledge and skills acquired at the university to address challenges facing Uganda and improve the lives of people in their communities.
The ceremony comes amid growing pressure on universities to ensure that graduates leave higher education with skills that match the demands of employers and the wider economy.
Victoria University says it remains committed to strengthening its training approach and preparing students to contribute to national development through technological competence, innovation and practical problem-solving.