At Victoria University’s 9th graduation ceremony, the institution’s leadership delivered a powerful call to action, urging the new graduates to become ethical innovators and proactive problem-solvers for Africa.
Held in Kampala under the theme “Shaping the Future,” the event brought together graduands, parents, and dignitaries, including Members of Parliament and leaders from academia and the Uganda Police Force.
In his address, chancellor Prof John Opuda-Asibo framed education as a vital force for national development.
“Education is a noble pursuit that transforms individuals, families, and nations. To ignore education is to ignore the nation itself,” he stated.
The ceremony began on a somber note as Prof Opuda-Asibo led the gathering in a moment of silence to honor three late members of the university community: Rajiv Ruparelia, Joram Francis Kahene, and Dr Issa Seroda.
He praised their legacy of leadership and kindness. Reflecting on the university’s growth, the Chancellor highlighted its evolution into a pioneer of technology-driven, learner-centred education.
“We are now a mature university,” he declared, challenging the institution to reaffirm its mission to produce “future-ready graduates equipped with digital competence, moral clarity, and a spirit of innovation.”
He called upon university governance to ensure accountability and measurable impact, and encouraged faculty to break down disciplinary silos.
“The most complex challenges of our time cannot be solved within the walls of a single discipline,” Prof Opuda-Asibo explained, emphasizing the need for collaborative approaches to issues like climate change and technological disruption. His final message to the graduates centered on self-belief and agency.
“There is nothing more important than your character. Don’t doubt yourself — believe in yourself,” he said.
“Don’t look for anybody else; you are the one. Particularly for us in Africa, we must stop thinking that others are in charge. You are the future.”
KYABAZINGA CHAMPIONS A “DIGITAL-FIRST” MINDSET
The Chief Guest, His Royal Highness William Wilberforce Kadhumbula Gabula Nadiope IV, the Kyabazinga of Busoga, echoed the call for innovation. He commended the university’s “digital-first” approach as a model for African higher education.
“The world you are graduating into is vastly different from the one that existed when many of you entered university. Innovation has gained momentum, and it is no longer optional,” the monarch stated.
He described digital fluency as the new foundational language for progress, a tool for empowerment and transformation. The ceremony celebrated over 2,500 graduands who received awards across various disciplines.
Victoria University’s vice chancellor, Lawrence Muganga, reinforced the message by outlining the urgent shifts in the global job market due to Artificial Intelligence. Citing World Economic Forum predictions, he noted that while AI may create 170 million new jobs, it could also render 92 million obsolete.
“This raises a crucial question: Are we preparing our students for careers that may vanish tomorrow?” Dr Muganga asked.
“At Victoria University, we have chosen a different path. Every one of our students receives AI training for free so they are prepared to excel in the future.”
The event was attended by the university’s founder and chairman, Sudhir Ruparelia, and his family. Since its founding in 2013, Victoria University has established itself as a leading private institution in Uganda, focusing on digital education, innovation, and employability.
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