23/04/2025
I) WELCOME REMARKS.
It is a privilege and profound honor to celebrate the peak of our 2025 graduating class's journey with you today, alongside the 6th School of Nursing and Health Sciences and the 22nd general graduation ceremony, as we mark 26 years of Kampala University's significant existence under the theme: "Celebrating 26 Years of Excellence: Advancing Efforts to Make Kampala University Greater."
II) WELCOMING THE GUEST OF HONOUR AND ACKNOWLEDGING THE VICE-CHANCELLOR
I would like to extend a warm welcome to our Guest of Honour, Rt. Hon. Rukia Nakadama Isanga, the Third Deputy Prime Minister of Uganda and Minister without Portfolio, represented by Hon. Joyce Moriku Kaducu, the State Minister for Primary Education, for accepting our invitation. Honourable Minister, your presence is highly valued, inspiring us and highlighting the vital partnership between the Government, the Ministry of Education and Sports, and higher education institutions like Kampala University in shaping our nation's future. We are deeply honoured and appreciate your time.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank and express our deep gratitude to Owek. Amb. Al-haj .Prof. Badru Kateregga, the founding Vice-Chancellor of Kampala University, for his exemplary leadership and strategic management of the Institution. Under his tireless guidance, the university has blossomed into a beacon of academic progress.
Following my commendation of Professor Kateregga's leadership, I also wish to address recent public discourse. It is truly heartening for us all to see the Vice-Chancellor present with us today, addressing this congregation with his characteristic vigour, confirming his positive recovery. Furthermore, let me affirm that Kampala University’s established structures and robust governance have ensured its continued and unwavering progress during this period. The institution remains strong and focused on its core mission. This resilience is a profound testament to the remarkable dedication and professionalism of our entire university community – academic, administrative, and support staff – who have remained steadfast. My sincere gratitude goes to each of them for their commitment.
III) CONGRATULATING KAMPALA UNIVERSITY ON ITS 26TH ANNIVERSARY.
As we gather here today, we are also proud to mark an important milestone in the history of Kampala University, the 26th anniversary of its establishment. For 26 years, Kampala University has been a cornerstone of academic excellence, providing quality education to thousands of students who have gone on to become influential leaders in various sectors across the country and beyond. To all those who have played a part in shaping the university’s success, we offer our deepest gratitude and congratulations.
IV) WHAT SHOULD BE THE CONTRIBUTION OF INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING IN SHAPING THE FUTURE OF OUR COUNTRIES.
Institutions of higher learning, like Kampala University, play a crucial role in shaping the future of our countries by equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking needed to address complex global challenges. They should focus on fostering innovation, research, and entrepreneurship, while promoting social responsibility and ethical leadership. By cultivating a diverse and inclusive learning environment, Universities can prepare graduates to lead sustainable development, drive economic growth, and contribute to solving pressing issues such as climate change, poverty, and inequality. Their active engagement in community partnerships and global collaboration can help shape a brighter future for all.
V) GLOBAL TRENDS IN HIGHER EDUCATION
In recent years, the landscape of higher education has undergone a significant transformation. Globally, education is no longer confined to the classroom or the four walls of a university. With the advent of technology, we are witnessing a shift towards digital learning and remote education. Universities around the world are embracing these trends, integrating technology into their curricula, and providing students with the flexibility to learn from anywhere at any time.
Kampala University has made strides in adopting these trends and ensuring that its students are equipped to compete in an increasingly interconnected and digital world. The ability to think critically, innovate, and adapt to new technologies will be key for the future success of our graduates.
VI) THE IMPORTANCE OF CRITICAL THINKING AND INNOVATION.
Today’s graduates are inheritors of a world that is in constant fluctuation. The ability to think critically and innovate will determine their success in navigating this complex landscape. The challenges of the 21st century demand individuals who can think beyond the conventional, who can come up with solutions to problems that may not yet exist, and who are bold to question the status quo.
Critical thinking is about more than just absorbing information; it is about analyzing, evaluating, and creating new perspectives. Innovation goes hand in hand with critical thinking. As you step into the world, I encourage you, our graduands, to apply these skills not only in your professional endeavors but also in your personal lives. Whether you are starting your own business, leading a community initiative, or contributing to the public sector, your ability to innovate and approach problems with an open mind will be invaluable.
VII) MESSAGE TO THE STAFF
To the staff of Kampala University, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation for your dedication and tireless efforts in shaping the future of our students despite the challenges we might have faced. You have played a pivotal role in ensuring that the university remains a center of excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement.
VIII) APPRECIATION TO PARENTS, GUARDIANS AND SPONSORS.
On behalf of the entire institution, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the parents, guardians, and sponsors for their unwavering support and dedication. Your sacrifices, encouragement, and belief in our graduates have been instrumental in their success.
IX) MESSAGE TO THE GRADUANDS
Our dear Graduands: Today is a day of immense pride. It marks the end of one chapter in your lives and the beginning of another. Your time at Kampala University has equipped you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the world. But more importantly, it has prepared you to be leaders, thinkers, AI and innovators in a rapidly changing world. The challenges ahead may seem daunting, but remember this: you are now ready to face them. You have been equipped not only with a degree but also with the tools to navigate the complexities of life.
As you embark on the next phase of your journey, remember to stay curious, remain humble, and keep pushing the boundaries of what you can achieve. The world needs your ideas, your creativity, and your leadership more than ever before. I encourage you to dream big, take risks, and embrace failure as part of the learning process.
X) CONCLUSION.
I once again thank you our Guest of Honour, Rt. Hon. Rukia Nakadama Isanga, the Third Deputy Prime Minister of Uganda and Minister without Portfolio, represented by Hon. Joyce Moriku Kaducu, the State Minister for Primary Education for your presence on this distinct function.
My gratitude finally goes to the Vice-Chancellor Owek. Amb. Al-haj Prof. Badru Kateregga management and staff of Kampala University for the endless services delivered for the progress of this institution, embodying our theme of excellence and advancement, and also for organizing such a colorful high-profile function.
Once again congratulations to our graduands and the entire congregation.
I wish you all a happy and fruitful life.
For God and My Country.
HON. PROF. MONDO .G. KAGONYERA -CHAN
