A total of 751 students graduated from Makerere University Business School (MUBS) on Friday during its 19th graduation ceremony held at the Nakawa-based campus, as the institution reinforced its focus on innovation, entrepreneurship and skills development aligned with global economic shifts.
The graduates were awarded certificates, diplomas and postgraduate diplomas at a ceremony presided over by the Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof Crispus Kiyonga.
According to official figures, 449 of the graduates were female, representing 60 per cent, while 302 were male, reflecting continued gender balance trends in higher education participation.
The cohort included 54 postgraduate diploma graduates, 490 ordinary diploma graduates and 195 certificate graduates. Among them were inmates from Luzira Prison, which university officials said underscored the transformative role of education in rehabilitation and reintegration.
MUBS Principal Prof Moses Muhwezi said the institution is increasingly positioning itself to respond to emerging global realities driven by technological advancement, including artificial intelligence, digital transformation and shifting labour market demands.
He noted that the school is strengthening international partnerships, expanding research output and equipping students with practical entrepreneurial skills to enhance employability and innovation.
“We hope you will always trace your roots and remember that this institution contributed to your growth and history,” Prof Muhwezi said, thanking parents, sponsors and staff for supporting the graduates.
Representing Makerere University Vice Chancellor Prof Barnabas Nawangwe, Prof Buyinza Mukadasi commended MUBS for strengthening its reputation as a research-led institution with growing influence in innovation and mentorship.
He said the institution continues to play a key role in producing skilled graduates capable of contributing to Uganda’s socio-economic transformation through both employment and enterprise creation.
“MUBS is not only producing graduates, but is also influencing innovation and the research landscape in this country,” Prof Buyinza said, urging graduates to consider entrepreneurship as a viable path amid limited formal job opportunities.
“Do not despair if you cannot find employment. Reflect on the immense opportunities around you and rise as entrepreneurs,” he added.
He also cautioned graduates against corruption, drug abuse and other behaviours that could undermine their future careers.
Prof Kiyonga congratulated the graduates and urged them to use their education responsibly in support of national development, while emphasising integrity in public and private service.
“Corruption is a very bad thing. It undermines all of us whenever we ask for services that are due to us,” he said.
The ceremony also recognised outstanding students and newly promoted professors as part of efforts to celebrate academic achievement and institutional leadership.