MPIGI. The Chancellor of Uganda Martyrs University (UMU), Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Antony Zziwa, has challenged the institution’s 31st graduating class to be architects of national change, urging them to embrace science, technology, and integrity to solve Uganda’s endemic problems.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony on Saturday under the theme, “Innovation for Social Economic Transformation through Science, Technology and Enterprise,” Bishop Zziwa was categorical that graduates must use their knowledge to uplift society.
“Embracing innovation for social and economic transformation must be achieved through science and technology,” the Kiyinda-Mityana Diocesan Bishop stated.
He elaborated that true innovation must be geared towards tackling the root causes of national distress: “Innovation must address societal challenges like poverty, disease and inequality in service delivery.”
The prelate called upon the graduates to demonstrate ethical leadership and focus on the most vulnerable groups.
“Marginalised and vulnerable people should be prioritised when serving the nation. We must serve humanity universally,” he stressed, adding that graduates must always “carry ethical and moral responsibilities wherever you are.”
The Chancellor also delivered a clear message on self-reliance and job creation, advising graduates against a passive approach to employment.
“Be proactive and create own opportunities rather than waiting for seeking jobs, especially in agriculture, education, energy, health care and technology,” he said.
The chief guest, Ms Gloria Evelyn Byamugisha, the Group Chief Human Resource Officer of Dangote Cement PLC, also emphasized practical innovation, particularly in the food sector.
She advised universities to re-evaluate their course offerings to meet global demands.
“Can we reflect on agribusiness because the world is looking for food security,” she asked, suggesting that institutions should “focus on farming and farm-related topics.”
Ms. Byamugisha challenged the graduates to be problem-solvers, asking: “Why do we produce accountants, engineers, etc., who can’t handle poverty, diseases, food insecurity? The world is looking for solutions, not degrees or diplomas.”
A total of 2,399 students were conferred with degrees, diplomas, and certificates, comprising 1,236 females and 1,163 males. The university also produced four doctors of philosophy in agro ecology and food systems.
Notable among the graduates was Bonny Kazibwami, an intern attached to Nation Media Group Masaka Bureau , who obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication.
The ceremony also celebrated the perseverance of Rev. Samuel Matovu Mbogo, 52, the head teacher Sembabule Church of Uganda Secondary School who received a Master’s in Education Management and Administration.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Patrick Edwin Kyamanywa, announced that the university is undertaking a $2.7million (about Shs9.4billion ) project—the UMU Science and Innovation Hub, which he said will promote and develop technological education at the university.
The ceremony was presided over by His Eminence Cardinal Emmanuel Wamala and included the unveiling of the newly refurbished Cardinal Wamala Auditorium and the launch of a fundraising drive for the Science laboratory.