How 23rd Kampala University graduation unfolded

KAMPALA - Excitement filled Kampala University (KU) main campus at Ggaba in Kampala as 3,514 students graduated with various academic qualifications.

In his remarks, Prof. Badru Dungu Kateregga, the Vice Chancellor and KU proprietor, urged graduands to remain humane, curious, focused, humble, innovative, and courageous as they leave the university to embrace world challenges.

Prof. Badru Dungu Kateregga, the Vice Chancellor, and KU proprietor, lauded the University Council, Senior Management, Senate, Staff, and the Students’ Guild for their exceptional work and unwavering commitment to the continued growth of Kampala University. (All Photos by Douglas Mubiru)

“Today marks both an end and a new beginning. You leave Kampala University now equipped with knowledge, skills, and values to excel in a complex world. Remain humane, curious, focused, humble, innovative, and courageous. Dream boldly, embrace challenges, and let failure be a stepping stone to growth. The world needs your leadership, creativity, and resilience,” Kateregga urged the cheering graduands on Thursday, April 23, 2026.

Among the notable graduates were MP-elects Jovia Katusiime (Kiryandongo District), Jamal Ayagalakyi Mukuve (Bukooli North), Joel Waiswa Azalwa  (Busiki), and Peter Ocen Peter (Kole South).

(L-R) Kampala University Chancellor Prof. Mondo Kagonyera, the Chief Guest Prof. Maggie Kigozi, and Vice Chancellor Prof. Badru Dungu Kateregga, during the 23rd Kampala University graduation ceremony in Kampala.

Kateregga also lauded the institution's School of Industrial Art and Design (SIAD), whose exceptional craftsmanship, he said, produced the graduation and ceremonial gowns worn by graduands.

He added, “Their work stands as a testament to our University’s growing creative capacity, technical excellence, and commitment to home‑grown innovation. The initiative has saved the university close to sh70 million in revenue.”

Prof. Maggie Kigozi, who was the chief guest at the ceremony, urged graduands to embrace AI and not only understand its potential, but also incorporate it into their professional disciplines to remain relevant and competitive in today’s job market, both locally and globally.

Positively embrace AI

Held under the theme, 'Empowering a New Generation: AI, Innovation, and Sustainable Development,' Prof. Maggie Kigozi, who was the chief guest at the ceremony, urged graduands to embrace AI and not only understand its potential, but also incorporate it into their professional disciplines to remain relevant and competitive in today’s job market, both locally and globally.

“As we move forward, I want to underscore the importance of embracing the rapid technological advancements that are reshaping our world. The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and other cutting-edge technologies presents both an exciting opportunity and a challenge for all of us. But we must remember that these technological advances must be paired with practical skills, community engagement, and a commitment to sustainable development,” Kigozi urged the graduands.

Kampala University deputy Resident Director Faquin Mohammad during the 23rd graduation ceremony at Ggaba in Kampala.

She added, “The future is not just about knowing how to use technology — it’s about using it to improve the quality of life for all people, particularly in our communities.

This is not just an opportunity for you to advance your career, but also an opportunity to contribute to the sustainable development of our nation and the world at large. We need thinkers, innovators, and leaders who will push the boundaries of what is possible and use their knowledge to solve the pressing challenges of our time, from climate change to poverty, inequality, and health crises.” 

Prof. Mondo Kagonyera, the KU Chancellor, urged graduands to reflect on the ethical dimensions of AI advancements, insisting that technology without values can lead to unintended consequences.

Ethical dimensions

Prof. Mondo Kagonyera, the KU Chancellor, urged graduands to reflect on the ethical dimensions of AI advancements, insisting that technology without values can lead to unintended consequences. 

“Therefore, we must instil in our students a strong moral compass, critical thinking skills, and a deep sense of responsibility to society. Sustainable development is not just about economic growth; it is about inclusivity, environmental stewardship, and ensuring that no one is left behind.”