Joy and pride: On Saturday, October 25, 2025, Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) held its 32nd Graduation Ceremony at the Kihumuro Main Campus. The colorful event was graced by government officials, parents, staff, students, and partners, and was marked by the installation of Professor Jack H. Pen-Mogi Nyeko as the 5th Chancellor of the University.
A total of 1,382 graduands were conferred with degrees and awarded diplomas. Of these, 942 were male and 440 were female, while 392 were postgraduate students. Notably, 31 students graduated with Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), the highest number in MUST’s history. Thirty-five students obtained First-Class degrees, while fourteen received Diplomas with Distinction.
The ceremony was presided over by Hon. Maj. Gen. Jim Muhwezi, the Minister of Security, who represented the President of the Republic of Uganda and Visitor to Public Universities, H.E. Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. The First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, was represented by Hon. Frank Tumwebaze, the Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries.
In her address, Professor Pauline Byakika-Kibwika, the Vice Chancellor of MUST, congratulated the graduands for their hard work and resilience. “This day is a remarkable milestone in your lives, and equally significant for those who supported you through this journey,” she said. “Succeed we MUST, and succeed we have.”
Reflecting on her first year in office, Prof. Byakika shared the progress achieved under the university’s new strategic direction focusing on governance, academic excellence, inclusiveness, research, and community engagement. She announced major institutional developments, including:
- The completion of the Faculty of Computing and Informatics building with space for 1,000 students.
- The upcoming MUST College of Health Sciences Complex, with UGX 31 billion already allocated for construction.
- Plans to establish a Faculty of Agriculture, Environment, and Veterinary Sciences to strengthen agricultural innovation and sustainability.
She also highlighted MUST’s rising global profile in research and innovation. “Our researchers continue to push boundaries from natural therapeutics like COVIDEX, to AI-driven data science applications, and innovations such as the Soila Mobile App and Afri-Milk Check Kit. We are not just publishing, we are innovating for impact.”
Prof. Byakika announced that MUST will host the African Forum for Research and Education in Health (AFREhealth) International Conference in August 2026 a continental event expected to attract hundreds of researchers and health professionals.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the University Council, Dr. Warren Naamara, the Chairperson, commended the leadership for steering the university steadily forward. He emphasized that the council’s commitment to administrative excellence, financial prudence, and academic growth remains firm. “We are proud of the progress made, but we must continue addressing key gaps such as staffing and infrastructure to match the growth of this great institution,” he said.
Delivering the President’s message, Hon. Maj. Gen. Muhwezi commended MUST for maintaining peace, discipline, and academic focus. “When we founded Mbarara University of Science and Technology in 1989, the goal was to train professionals who would serve with resilience and integrity. Today, that dream is alive,” he said.
He urged the graduates to embrace innovation, discipline, and patriotism as they enter the world of work. “Take advantage of government initiatives like the Parish Development Model and Emyooga to become job creators and productive citizens.”
Representing the First Lady, Hon. Tumwebaze congratulated the graduates and thanked the University for its Continued Contribution to higher education and community transformation. He said, “I, too, was once a student here many years ago, and I am proud to say that Mbarara University shaped me into the person I am today.” He commended the leadership of Vice Chancellor Professor Pauline Byakika-Kibwika for her “energetic and visionary leadership” and pledged government’s continued support in areas of infrastructure, research, and staffing.
The highlight of the day was the installation of Professor Jack H. Pen-Mogi Nyeko as the 5th Chancellor of MUST, succeeding Professor Charles Lwanga Olweny. Prof. Pen-Mogi, a renowned academic and former Vice Chancellor of Gulu University, brings with him decades of leadership experience and scholarship. In his acceptance remarks, he said, “I am deeply honored to serve as Chancellor of this great university. I pledge to support the leadership and to work collectively to advance research, innovation, and excellence at MUST.”
The Valedictorian, Mr. John Musasizi, from the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, emerged as the best overall student with a CGPA of 4.83. Delivering his speech on behalf of all graduands, he reflected on the long academic journey marked by “financial hardships, sleepless nights, and countless sacrifices.” He added, “Our success is not measured by grades or titles, but by the impact we create on others.”
The 32nd Graduation Ceremony was not only a celebration of academic achievement but also a reaffirmation of MUST’s enduring commitment to transforming communities through education, research, and innovation.
In her closing remarks, Prof. Byakika encouraged the graduates to go forth as agents of change. “Your degree is not just a certificate it is a launchpad for leadership, service, and innovation. The world awaits your contribution. Go out there and make us proud.”
The ceremony concluded with jubilation, music, and color as graduates, parents, and staff celebrated another milestone in the university’s history.
The vibe @ grad
