By Frank Kamuntu
Victoria University Vice Chancellor Prof. Lawrence Muganga has been honoured with the Education Impact Award of the Year at the inaugural Sanyuka Uncut Awards, a prestigious recognition celebrating individuals who shaped public discourse in 2025 through bold, honest and unfiltered engagement.
The awards ceremony recognised voices, moments and conversations that significantly influenced society, with Prof. Muganga standing out for his transformative contribution to higher education in Uganda.
Receiving the award, Prof. Muganga expressed deep gratitude to Sanyuka TV, its viewers and the leadership of Next Media for consistently amplifying education-focused narratives.
“I receive the Education Impact Award of the Year with deep gratitude,” Muganga said. “Thank you, Sanyuka TV and the viewers for your continued support. I also appreciate Kin Kariisa and the entire Next Media family for consistently championing education and meaningful impact. This recognition strengthens my commitment to serve even more.”
Redefining University Education
Under his leadership, Victoria University has undergone a bold transformation from a traditional lecture-based institution into a skills-driven, industry-linked university. The shift has prioritised innovation, entrepreneurship and employability, positioning graduates as problem-solvers, innovators and job creators rather than mere degree holders.
His message that universities must prepare students for life and work, not just graduation has resonated strongly with students, parents, employers and policymakers alike.
Driving Practical & Inclusive Learning
Among Prof. Muganga’s most notable contributions are the introduction of hands-on, industry-relevant learning models, the expansion of digital and blended learning, and improved access to higher education for working students.
He has also been widely commended for championing affordable and flexible university education, integrating entrepreneurship and innovation hubs into academic programs, and maintaining active public engagement on education policy, youth skills development and employability.
Through frequent media appearances, public lectures and academic forums, Prof. Muganga’s thought leadership has helped shape national and regional conversations on the future of education.
A Visionary Leader With Global Experience
Beyond his administrative role, Prof. Muganga is a visionary educator, renowned author, widely credited with driving Uganda toward technology-enabled learning in the digital age. He has consistently promoted the integration of technology, artificial intelligence and industry-driven curricula to equip students with future-ready skills.
He holds a Master’s degree in Education from Makerere University, a Master’s degree in Economic Policy specialising in Adult Education from the University of Alberta, and a Ph.D. in Educational Administration and Management. His academic journey also includes post-doctoral training in Leadership and advanced professional development at Harvard University’s Derek Bok Center for Teaching and Learning.
Under his stewardship, Victoria University has fully digitised its teaching and learning processes, rolled out free AI training programs and embraced cutting-edge technologies. His advocacy for “Authentic Learning” has shifted education away from rote memorisation toward critical thinking and real-world problem-solving.
Impact Beyond Borders
Having advised on education in over 51 countries, including Canada, Sweden, Finland, Botswana and Singapore, Prof. Muganga brings rich international experience to Uganda’s education sector. The AI-enhanced platforms and virtual classrooms introduced at Victoria University now stand as a model for institutions across Africa.
He is also a prolific author whose works continue to spark debate and innovation in education. His publications include Authentic University: Education for a Digital World, You Can’t Make Fish Climb a Tree, Discovering Authentic Education with AI, the first AI-focused education book in East Africa and From Chalk to Chatbots.
The Sanyuka Uncut Award adds to a growing list of accolades recognising Prof. Muganga’s impact in education, leadership and innovation. Education stakeholders credit his bold messaging and public visibility for demystifying higher education and refocusing it on outcomes that truly matter to learners and society. CONGS!
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