By Frank Kamuntu
Victoria University Uganda (VU) today held its 9th Graduation Ceremony at the Speke Resort Convention Centre in Munyonyo, marking a grand celebration of academic excellence, innovation, and growth.
The colorful event, themed “Shaping the Future: Innovation, Digitality, and Employability,” saw 2,029 graduands proudly receive degrees, diplomas, and certificates across a wide range of disciplines. The milestone highlights the university’s commitment to producing competent and innovative professionals ready to thrive in today’s dynamic job market.
Embracing Innovation & Lifelong Learning
In his address, VU Vice Chancellor, Dr. Lawrence Muganga, urged graduates to embrace artificial intelligence (AI), practical skills, and lifelong learning as essential tools for success in a fast-changing world.
“The world is changing faster than many curricula can adjust. The right question is not ‘Do you have a degree?’ but ‘Can you deliver on day one?’” Dr. Muganga said, drawing applause from attendees. He emphasized that every academic program at Victoria University now includes free AI training, noting, “If AI is the new electricity of work, then AI fluency must be the new reading and writing.”
Dr. Muganga also highlighted success stories of graduates such as Shamim Nantongo and Grace Nambafu, who secured employment even before completing their studies through hands-on training at Acorns International School and Next Media. Their achievements, he said, exemplify the university’s experiential and competency-based learning model.
A Ceremony Of Pride & Vision
The ceremony was graced by His Majesty, the Kyabazinga of Busoga, William Gabula Nadiope IV, who served as Guest of Honour, alongside Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia, Founder and Chairman of Victoria University’s Board of Directors. Dr. Ruparelia attended with his wife, Ms. Jyotsna Ruparelia, and their son-in-law Jay Sakaria, Vice Chairperson of the University Council.
Hundreds of guests, including senior government officials, industry leaders, and members of the academic community from Uganda and beyond, attended the vibrant ceremony.
Dr. Muganga described the day as one of “pride, promise, and possibility,” paying tribute to graduates, parents, and faculty members whose dedication made the achievement possible.
Preparing Graduates For The Future
The Vice Chancellor reaffirmed Victoria University’s ongoing partnerships with the Office of the Kyabazinga of Busoga, aimed at promoting education, financial literacy, and employability among young people in the region. “Skill without stewardship leaks. With stewardship, skill becomes stability and growth,” he said.
He also cautioned against complacency in the age of AI, warning that individuals and institutions failing to adapt risk falling behind. “If universities maintain slow update cycles, graduates will have beautiful transcripts but limited readiness. The market will be merciless,” he observed.
Addressing the Class of 2025, Dr. Muganga encouraged graduates to be innovators, problem solvers, and lifelong learners:
“Go where the problems are. Work with humility and urgency. Measure progress by the value you create for others,” he advised.
The 9th Graduation Ceremony marks another milestone in Victoria University’s mission to transform higher education in Uganda. Through practical, technology-driven learning, VU continues to equip graduates with the skills and mindset to lead, innovate, and create impact locally and globally.
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