Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) recently marked a significant stride in its commitment to inclusive communication with the graduation of its Second Cohort of Sign Language students. This pivotal ceremony, a vibrant testament to dedication and community impact, saw 53 students successfully complete their training, poised to bridge critical communication gaps across various sectors.
The event commenced with insightful opening remarks from Ms. Stella Dusabe, the PWDs Coordinator, who warmly recognized all present and highlighted the immense achievement of the graduating students. Stella emphasized MUST’s unwavering commitment to inclusivity, stating that learning sign language equips students and staff to communicate effectively with the hearing-impaired across diverse fields – from hospitals and schools to businesses and community engagements. This program, she conveyed, stands as a vital step in ensuring communication extends beyond mere speaking and writing, fostering a truly inclusive environment.
Following this, Mr. Brian Sande, a Sign Language Tutor, expressed gratitude to the graduating cohort for their perseverance and for making it to the successful completion of the program. He noted the impressive journey of the 53 graduates from an initial cohort of over 90 students, highlighting the diverse representation from various faculties, including the Faculty of Medicine (FOM) and the Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies (FIS). Brian also extended appreciation to the office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for their consistent support and passionately encouraged the graduates: “Don’t sit on your skills; opportunities are truly out there!”
Adding to the messages of praise, Deputy Dean Maureen Kahima extended her heartfelt congratulations to the students of this second cohort. She powerfully articulated that this graduation represents a great achievement not only for Mbarara University of Science and Technology but also for the broader community, underscoring the far-reaching positive impact of their newly acquired sign language skills.
Mr. Emmanuel Kyagaba, the Dean of Students at MUST, expressed his gratitude for being invited to partake in this important event. He articulated a plea for the university to establish programs where the contributions of participants are duly recognized. Emphasizing MUST’s commitment to aligning with global concerns through its policies, he underscored the critical importance of this graduation. Dean Kyagaba also took the opportunity to commend the dedicated team behind the sign language training, having witnessed firsthand how communication must extend beyond just speaking and writing to be truly inclusive. In a special way Mr. Kyagaba recognized candidates out of MUST that participated. He pointed out , Mountains of the Moon University,Las Vegas Hotel, a stay home mother and the S6 vacist.
Dr. Martha Kyoshaba Twinamasiko, the Academic Registrar, also emphasized the profound importance of this graduation ceremony. She began by sharing her personal experience as a Sunday school teacher, where she and her colleagues incorporated sign language into every song to help the children learn. Demonstrating with the song “Jesus’ Love Is Bubbling Over,” she explained how the children would use the signs to communicate. She reflected, “We did not know what we were doing, but it’s now that I appreciate that we were emphasizing what we were communicating.” Dr. Kyoshaba extended her heartfelt congratulations to all 53 participants, reiterating that she sees firsthand how communication truly goes beyond mere speaking and writing—it must be inclusive. She concluded by commending the dedicated team behind this invaluable sign language training.
Prof. Nixon Kamukama, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic Affairs), extended heartfelt congratulations to the 2nd cohort of graduates. He expressed appreciation for the DVC’s office in organizing such a significant event, highlighting it as a truly great opportunity. In a powerful final charge to the graduating class, Mr. Kamukama declared, “Go forth and make a substantial impact!”
Adding to the program, Ms. Goretti Turyahirwa extended congratulations to all the graduating students and delivered a compelling presentation about Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). They also expressed deep appreciation to the DVC and everyone who played a pivotal role in supporting this invaluable sign language program.
Concluding the series of insightful remarks, Ms. Angella Nakato Muyingo, the communications Officer (PRO), emphasized the university’s appreciation for inclusivity. She delivered a crucial message, urging everyone to “use the right language when addressing people with impairments because it can either break or make them,” underscoring the profound impact of respectful and mindful communication.
As the names of the graduates were read aloud, each accompanied by its sign language equivalent, the air was filled not with claps, but with enthusiastic waving arms the visual applause of the Deaf community. It was a powerful and moving demonstration of how deeply ingrained sign language has become within the MUST community.
The graduation ceremony underscored MUST’s unwavering dedication to fostering an accessible and equitable society, solidifying its position as a truly inclusive environment. This commitment is due in no small part to the steadfast support of the university administration.
Congratulations once again to all our graduates! Your dedication is making a tangible difference in building a more inclusive future for everyone.
