TORONTO,CANADA. Victoria University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Lawrence Muganga, has scooped a Global Impact Award, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to transforming global education.
The award handed to Prof Muganga at the Excellence Awards 2025 on Saturday, October 18, at the Meridian Arts Centre in Toronto, Canada is in recognition of the academic ’s leadership in pioneering people-centred education reforms and championing innovation-driven learning both in Uganda and internationally.
According to a statement issued by Victoria University, the award handed to Prof. Muganga is a testament to his long-standing commitment to advancing practical, skills-based education systems anchored in technology and human development.
“From the University of Alberta to Victoria University, Prof. Muganga has led groundbreaking innovations, bold reforms, and people-centered educational policies,” the university said.
The statement further noted that beyond university leadership, Prof. Muganga continues to advise governments globally on rethinking traditional education models toward systems that are skills-driven and powered by emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.
A transformative education visionary
With academic roots tracing back to the University of Alberta in Canada, where he earned his PhD in Educational Administration and Leadership, Prof. Muganga has championed experiential, competency-based learning and the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital innovation into mainstream education.
Since assuming leadership at Victoria University, Prof. Muganga has spearheaded sweeping reforms aimed at positioning the institution as a model for modern education in Africa. His “Real Learning” philosophy—anchored on creativity, hands-on skills, and employability—has redefined how universities prepare learners for global competitiveness.
Under his stewardship, Victoria University became the first institution in East Africa to introduce an AI-driven learning management ecosystem, enabling adaptive learning, real-time student engagement analytics, and personalized academic support. The university has also emerged as a key hub for innovation partnerships with industries and international institutions.
Beyond his local influence, Prof. Muganga serves as an international advisor and speaker on educational transformation, digital pedagogy, and the future of work. He has delivered keynote addresses at global conferences in Europe, North America, and Africa, and authored the highly acclaimed book “You Can’t Make Fish Climb Trees,” which challenges outdated education systems and advocates for learner-centered instruction.
His reforms have inspired multiple governments and academic bodies to explore curriculum redesigns that align with practical skill-building, entrepreneurship, and emerging technologies.
In a statement shared by Victoria University, the institution described the award as “a celebration of Ugandan excellence on the world stage and a testament to the transformative power of visionary leadership.”