The Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), Nyombi Thembo, has called on higher education institutions to embrace technological innovation while preserving the human essence of learning.
He made the remarks during his keynote address at ISBAT University Kampala’s 18th graduation ceremony, where he spoke about the vital intersection between technology and education.
Nyombi expressed excitement at engaging with “bright young minds and educators,” emphasising that as the world changes rapidly, universities must innovate to remain relevant and impactful.
He noted that emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Virtual Reality (VR) have the power to transform the education sector by enhancing knowledge delivery and simulating real-world experiences.
However, he cautioned that while these tools can enrich learning, they must not replace the human qualities that define transformative education.
“Education is about mentorship, dialogue, and discovery the aspects that ignite curiosity and foster genuine learning,” he said.
Nyombi further highlighted the collaboration between UCC and academic institutions as key to integrating digital tools into university curricula, aligning with Uganda’s national digital transformation agenda.
He said the Commission’s mission is to make education more accessible, inclusive, and forward-looking for all Ugandans.
He urged educators and policymakers to strike a balance between cutting-edge technology and the timeless values that nurture character, ethics, and creativity among learners.
“Together, we can cultivate a generation that is not only technologically adept but also deeply rooted in ethical and transformative principles that will guide our future,” he added.
Nyombi concluded by congratulating the graduates and commending ISBAT University for fostering innovation and human connection in education, saying the journey toward a digitally empowered Uganda must be one that keeps people not machines at the center of progress.