Over 1,000 graduate from Nkumba University

Over 1,000 students on Thursday graduated from Nkumba University after being conferred with different awards. 

The Vice Chancellor of  the University Prof Jude Lubega said 1,857 students graduated in different disciplines including Degrees, Diplomas and Certificates. 53 percent of the graduates are females while 47 percent are male. 15 graduated with Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD), 236 with masters, 185 post graduates, 997 bachelors, 247 diplomas and 177 certificates.

Prof Lubega asked the graduates to continue learning and updating themselves with technological advancements in order to keep abreast with the current Artificial Intelligence led working environment after graduation.

“With the evolving world, your are aware of Artificial Intelligence which is already with us here targeting the jobs which you are looking out for.  Therefore, the ability for you to learn and relearn has never been more vital than in this 21st century.  You have to keep abreast with the current environment and adapt where necessary with the skills you have been equipped with,” Prof Lubega said during the 25th Nkumba University Graduation Ceremony held at the University main campus along Entebbe-Kampala Road.

Prof Lubega also appealed to government to grant private learning institutions eligibility to access government funds.

“One significant step in this direction would be granting private institutions of higher learning the eligibility to access grant funds already given to public universities. These private institutions posses immense potential to engage in cutting edge research, a capacity that often remains untapped,” he said.

The Chancellor Nkumba University, Mr Emmanuel Katongole said there is need for private universities to be given the same priority as public universities.

“Each of these institutions shares a common goal of educating Ugandans.  Every student enrolled in these institutions contributes to the progressive development of our nation and region,. Therefore, there should be a leveled and fair access to essential resources and services such as financial resources,” he said.

Mr Katongole added that government should set up a a research fund for all students pursuing Doctorate studies in order to support PhD capacity building which is pivotal in addressing the country’s research endeavors.

Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, who was awarded a Masters of Arts in Monitoring and Evaluation, urged fellow graduates to harness all the opportunities that come before them to attain success in the job sector.

“As you receive your degrees, diplomas and certificates today, remember that this is just the beginning of your journey. It’s now time for you to position yourselves and harness all the opportunities that come with this academic achievement,” she said.

Ms Nabbanja said  government will continue supporting private institutions to provide high quality education in order to facilitate jobs and wealth creation.

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