By Chris Mugasha and Bruno Mugizi.
BUSHENYI: Government has lauded Valley University of Science and Technology (VUST) for growing very fast.
“Acquiring a University charter in a period of 9years is a remarkable achievement and a clear vote of confidence in the management of the university,” said the Deputy Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa adding that, “this shows your credibility in academic.”
Tayebwa was on Friday presiding over the University’s 6th graduation at the university’s graduation grounds in in Bwatogo ward, Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipality.
Tayebwa said there are several universities that started long time ago but have not yet proved to government to be granted a University charter.
“Congratulations upon winning the charter,” Tayebwa said before he hastened to caution, “we (government) are now going to demand much from you especially on standards.”
He thanked and congratulated the University’s founder Mzee William Mukaira for being visionary. “Mzee, you are our hero,” Tayebwa said as he commended Mukaira.
The deputy speaker implored the university leadership to make sure that its programs align well with both global and national priorities to address the community needs.
He urged graduands to embrace innovation and technology to tackle national challenges, especially youth unemployment. “Graduation is not the end of learning,” he advised adding, “apply your knowledge practically.”
Tayebwa disclosed that President Yoweri Museveni has already directed parliament to plan and allocate a fund for unemployed graduates a strategy he said is aimed at addressing unemployment amongst the graduates. “The intention is that if there is any graduate who has spent 2years on street while unemployed, he/she accesses a fund to be able to create a job rather than being a job seeker,” Tayebwa explained.
Tayebwa also commended parents for investing in education, calling it “the most meaningful and lasting investment one can give to a child.” He urged graduates to safeguard the gains in Uganda’s education sector, including participating in upcoming elections.
At the same function, Tayebwa also presided over the installation of Prof. William Bazeyo as the Chancellor of the University succeeding the late Dr. James Garuga who passed on last year.
Tayebwa congratulated Bazeyo for taking on the mantle. “He will jump start the university to the global heights and make sure you match his efforts,” he appealed.
“I am honoured to serve as the Chancellor of Valley University of Science and Technology,” Bazeyo said. He urged the graduands stressing that, “Let your achievements reflect the values of VUST wherever you go. Be model citizens, innovators, and leaders in your communities.”
A total of 717 students graduated in different academic disciplines. 435 were female while the rest were male.
The Vice Chancellor Dr Enos Rwasheema said acquiring the university charter is a turning point for the university to grow, enhance its ability to attract quality staff, expand academic programs, and strengthen research and innovation.
Sir Richard Kaijuka, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, encouraged graduands to apply their knowledge to solve real-world challenges. “Collaborate and innovate to create appropriate applications for the local challenges in communities,” he challenged adding that, “you are going out of this university as problem solvers in your respective communities.”
Prof William Kyamuhangire, Chairperson of the University Council, encouraged students to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies to remain competitive globally.
Prof Joyce Kikafunda, Uganda’s Ambassador to India, pledged to strengthen collaborations between VUST and Indian universities to advance AI research.
“India, once one of the poorest countries, is now among the developed world for embracing innovation and technology, including AI. We are committed to collaborating with institutions like VUST to equip Uganda’s youth with 21st-century skills,” Prof Kikafunda said.
During the graduation ceremony, parents, relatives, and well-wishers cheered as graduands received their diplomas and degrees, marking the culmination of years of study, discipline, and resilience.
In his closing remarks, Prof Bazeyo reminded graduates that education is a lifelong journey.
“Graduation is not the end of learning but the beginning of greater responsibility. Use your skills and knowledge to transform communities, industries, and the nation,” he said.
William Mukaira, the founder of Valley University of Science and Technology, urged the graduates to uphold the values of the institution and serve as proud ambassadors of the university in their communities and careers.
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