Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening higher education and skilling as a sustainable pathway to fighting poverty, urging graduates to focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation.
The message was delivered on behalf of President Museveni by Vice President Jessica Alupo during the 18th graduation ceremony of Mountains of the Moon University (MMU) at the institution’s main campus in Fort Portal City. A total of 520 students received degrees and diplomas across various disciplines.
Alupo reminded graduates that earning a degree is the beginning, not the end, of learning. “Graduation marks the start of a lifelong journey of acquiring knowledge and skills. Our education system must continue to produce innovators and problem-solvers who can transform communities,” she said.
She emphasized positioning as job creators rather than job seekers, noting that innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship are critical for Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.
Representing the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Museveni, State Minister Joyce Kaducu called on graduates to uphold integrity, reject corruption, and ensure their skills contribute to national development.
She further urged universities to align programs with national priorities, particularly through the Competence-Based Curriculum, emphasizing research, agriculture, and innovation.
Earlier, Moutains of the Moon University Chancellor Edward Rugumayo appealed for government support to complete the Faculty of Agriculture building, strengthen research infrastructure, and improve accessibility by tarmacking the 8-kilometre road from Kabundaire Market to the university.
The ceremony marks another milestone for MMU as it expands academic programs aimed at addressing regional and national development challenges, particularly in agriculture, innovation, and community transformation.