Victoria University Vice Chancellor Lawrence Muganga has urged Ugandans to embrace peaceful and responsible participation in the January 15, 2026 general elections, calling on citizens to prioritise unity, maturity and national purpose over political division as the country enters a sensitive electoral period.
In his end-of-year message, Muganga emphasised that every voter has a role to play in shaping Uganda’s future and appealed for respect, love for country and restraint throughout the election season.
He said leadership choices should be guided by integrity, justice and compassion.
“We must reject violence, hate, and division,” Muganga said, adding that Uganda’s strength lies in the ability of its people to remain peaceful even during moments of intense political competition.
Reflecting on the year coming to an end, Muganga acknowledged that 2025 had been difficult for many Ugandans, marked by loss, uncertainty and personal hardship. He expressed empathy with those affected and encouraged them to carry hope into the new year.
“What happened to you is not the end of your story,” he said, wishing for healing and renewed strength as the country enters 2026.
Turning to the Victoria University community, Muganga commended students, staff and partners for their resilience and courage in navigating challenges throughout the year.
He urged students to focus on personal growth in character, skills and mindset, saying education must extend beyond academic success to addressing real-life challenges.
“Uganda needs graduates who can identify problems, build practical solutions, and create value for society,” he said, noting that 2026 should be a year defined by innovation and intentional learning.
Muganga thanked university staff for their dedication and parents for entrusting the institution with their children.
He reaffirmed Victoria University’s commitment to a practical and values-based education model designed to prepare graduates for the demands of the modern world.
He also recognised alumni and institutional partners for supporting the university’s mission and pledged to strengthen collaborations that expand learning opportunities and improve graduate employability.
As Uganda heads into 2026, Muganga wished citizens peace in their homes and wisdom in their decisions, encouraging them to turn the setbacks of 2025 into lessons that inform a more hopeful and purposeful year ahead.
