In a speech delivered on his behalf by Vice President Jessica Alupo at Kumi University’s 20th graduation ceremony on November 28, the President said Uganda needs enterprising, science-driven graduates who can innovate and support agriculture, technology and community transformation.
“I encourage you, graduands, to approach the future not as job seekers but as job creators by using the acquired knowledge and skills to innovate and start enterprises which support agriculture and embrace science and technology,” Museveni said.
A total of 1,578 students — 813 females and 765 males — graduated with degrees and diplomas in fields including Education and Languages, Social Sciences, Management Studies, and Science and Technology.
Museveni reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the education sector, promoting research, expanding digital infrastructure and supporting youth entrepreneurship.
He urged universities to work with government, the private sector and local communities to translate academic knowledge into practical national progress.
He encouraged the graduates to uphold values of hard work, integrity, patriotism and service.
“Wherever you go, whether into classrooms, farms, offices, laboratories or your own businesses, go with confidence and the commitment to contribute to the development of Uganda,” Museveni said.
The President thanked the management and staff of Kumi University for their dedication over the past 20 years, noting that the institution had made a significant contribution to Uganda’s human capital development.
“As you celebrate 20 years, I urge you to strengthen research, uphold academic integrity and ensure that your graduates are globally competitive by nurturing a learning environment that prepares them to meet the challenges of the 21st century,” he said.
He praised the university for producing professionals across critical sectors such as education, business, agriculture and information technology, saying such institutions help advance the NRM government’s agenda of skilling Ugandans and promoting innovation.
The university’s Chancellor, Dr Sung Joo Hwang, congratulated the graduates and staff, saying the ceremony marked the culmination of resilience and determination, especially through recent global disruptions.
“Yet here you are — standing strong, prepared and ready to serve your nation and the world,” he said.
Vice Chancellor Prof Jong-In Hong urged graduates to live with purpose and community spirit. “We are not meant to live just for ourselves, but to live for others and be a blessing to the people around us,” he said.