UMU graduands asked to champion community transformation
Kamuegeya cautioned the graduands against the tendency by many scholars and professionals to take pride in their credentials at the expense of competence and ethical service.
Some of the dons, graduands and students of Uganda Martyrs University share a photo moment after the presentation of the Commencement Lecture for the university's 32nd Graduation Ceremony at the university's main campus at Nkozi, in Mpigi district on October 17, 2026. (Photos by Mathias Mazinga)
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A locally acclaimed social entrepreneur, commercial agriculturalist, philanthropist and tax and audit expert, Francis Kamulegeya has asked the newly graduated students of Uganda Martyrs University to demonstrate the knowledge and skills they have acquired through their ethical conduct and selfless service to others.
He was delivering the commencement lecture of the 32nd Graduation ceremony of Uganda Martyrs University at the university’s main campus at Nkozi, in Mpigi district on Saturday, October 17, 2026.
Francis Kamulegeya (left), receives a gift from the Vice Chancellor of Uganda Martyrs University, Prof. Patrick Edrin Kyamanywa. Kamulegeya delivered the Commencement Lecture of the 32nd Graduation Ceremony of Uganda Martyrs University at the university's main campus at Nkozi, in Mpigi district on Saturday, October 17, 2026.
He clarified that a credential or certificate just tells of the capability of the one who holds it, but does not prove whether the same person can apply the competence that the certificate tells.
He gave the example of a driver, who has a driving permit, but will not be trusted until he demonstrates in practical terms, on the road, the expectations of a professional driver.
“A driving permit is a certificate of a person who drives. Nevertheless, it doesn't tell us whether that person can reverse or balance a vehicle. Likewise, your academic qualification just gives you a foundation on which you are able to build. Certification or accreditation is just a beginning. Therefore, after getting a degree, or diploma, or certificate, we would want to see your capability, to prove that you are able to do what you are supposed to do.”
Francis Kamulegeya delivers the Commencement Lecture OF the 32nd Graduation Ceremony of Uganda Martyrs University at the university's main campus at Nkozi, in Mpigi district on Saturday, October 17, 2026.
“Knowledge is potential power until it is applied. Applying what you have learned is capability. Show people what you can do with capability. A successful graduate, scholar or researcher is the one who knows how to apply the knowledge he or she acquired, not the one who knows much. So, when you go out, please make a difference in the communities. Be a problem solver. Do not lose your sphere of influence. Avoid the competence trap, I mean, the tendency to confine yourself to your respective profession,” said Kamulegeya.
He then highlighted the importance of character: “A degree is just a sieve to get you to a table, but what keeps you there is character. You can be qualified, but if people don't trust you, you cannot achieve much. So, be ethical. Keep your word. Take responsibility for your mistakes. Practice the virtues of integrity, respect for others, empathy, and willingness to do the right thing. Never sacrifice your character just to advance your career. Always seek advice and mentorship. What will it benefit you to own the whole world but lose your soul? Use your education and abilities wisely and generously. Do not take a job just to be employed but to create value,” Kamulegeya further said.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor of UMU, Fr. Dr. Christopher Mukidi, also put it to the new graduands to exercise a highly integrity in their daily life and as examples.
“Remember that you cannot give what you don’t have. Contribute meaningfully to society. Be men and women of character. Don't oppress or close doors to others. You have a responsibility beyond credentials. We need virtue and wisdom to lead the world, in addition to credentials. Show the value of education you receive. Always ask yourself what you can do for humanity,” Mukidi said.
The lecture was also graced by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Patrick Kyamanywa, who also emphasised the need for the new graduates and all professionals and scholars in Ugnada to ehave a eep sense of the virtures of integririty, respect, creativity and commitment to the common good.
The lecture was just a precursor to the meg graduation function, which took place on Sunday, October 28.