The Kyabazinga of Busoga, His Royal Highness William Wilberforce Kadhumbula Gabula Nadiope IV, has urged graduates to embrace innovation and digital literacy as key drivers of transformation in today’s fast-evolving world.
Speaking as the Chief Guest at Victoria University’s 9th Graduation Ceremony, held at Speke Resort Munyonyo on Tuesday, the Kyabazinga commended the institution’s commitment to equipping learners with skills that meet the demands of the modern digital economy.
“The world you are graduating into is vastly different from the one that existed when many of you entered university. Innovation has gained momentum, and it is no longer optional,” he said.
The monarch further emphasised that digital fluency is now the foundation of progress in all sectors, describing Victoria University’s “digital-first” approach as a model for higher education in Africa.
“Digitally has become the language of our time, and the digital-first approach championed by Victoria University is not just about using technology; it’s about leveraging it to solve problems, create opportunities, and bridge divides,” he said.
“As you step into your careers, remember that digital literacy is a powerful tool for empowerment, inclusion, and transformation.”
The Kyabazinga also congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to use their skills to contribute meaningfully to society, noting that Victoria University had equipped them not only to seek employment but to create opportunities and drive innovation.
The colourful ceremony celebrated the achievements of over 2,500 graduands, who received master’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, diplomas, and certificates across diverse disciplines. The event was held under the theme “Shaping the Future: Innovation, Digital & Employability.”
Victoria University’s Vice Chancellor, Lawrence Muganga, reiterated the institution’s mission to prepare students for the rapidly changing job market, where artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are redefining the nature of work.
“A report from the World Economic Forum gives us a clear picture of the future. By 2030, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is expected to create around 170 million entirely new jobs and opportunities we have never seen before. At the same time, about 92 million existing jobs are likely to disappear,” Muganga said.
“This raises a crucial question: Are we preparing our students for careers that may vanish tomorrow? At Victoria University, we have chosen a different path. Every one of our students receives AI training for free so they are prepared to excel in the future.”
The ceremony was graced by several high-profile dignitaries, including Tycoon Sudhir Ruparelia, Founder and Chairman of the University’s Board of Directors, accompanied by his wife Jyotsna Ruparelia and son-in-law Jay Sakaria.
Founded in 2013, Victoria University has emerged as one of Uganda’s leading private institutions of higher learning, offering programmes across business, engineering, humanities, law, education, and health sciences.
The university continues to position itself as a trailblazer in digital education, innovation, and employability, celebrating a decade of transformative impact in Uganda’s higher education landscape.