The Hon. Dr. Moriku Kaduchu State Minister for Education, representing the Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, Minister of Education and Sports
The Chancellor
Members of MUST Council
The Vice Chancellor, Mbarara University of Science and Technology
The incoming Vice Chancellor, MUST
Honorable Ministers
Your Excellencies, Members of the Diplomatic Corp
Honorable Members of Parliament
The Executive Director, NCHE
Vice Chancellors and Representatives of Sister Universities
Deputy Vice Chancellors, MUST
Members of MUST Senate
Teaching and Non-teaching staff
Religious, Civic and Local Leaders
Parents, Guardians and Sponsors
Graduands and Students
Distinguished Guests
Ladies and Gentlemen
I welcome you all to the 31st graduation ceremony of Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST). I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to the graduands, your parents, Guardians, sponsors and your mentors. This is the main University deliverable for which you should always demand! It is also a true refection to the collective efforts of the University community, our students, the dedication of our staff, the management and leadership of Council.”
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to our Chancellor for his firm leadership and being the university’s Ambassador by promoting its image and interest. Additionally, I extend my thanks to the Government of Uganda, under the visionary leadership of His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, for the continued support and investment in the institution.
Hon Minister, I humbly request that you convey our gratitude to H.E and the Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janett Kataaha Museveni.
Mr. Chancellor Sir, this is the second graduation within a year, a true depiction of staff dedicated and hard work. E.g, The University management has assured us that graduates will go with their certificates today.
Mr. Chancellor, I am particularly pleased to acknowledge the significant increase in postgraduate completion rates across all faculties. This achievement is a direct result of the guidance and mentorship provided by our esteemed Deans, faculty members, the Deputy VCs and the Vice Chancellor, Professor Celestino. This has been one of the biggest achievements during Professor Obua’s tenure.”
I would also like to extend my deepest gratitude to members of the MUST Council whose guidance and leadership have been instrumental in shaping the University. On behalf of the members of Council, we pledge the unwavering commitment to promoting academic excellence, innovation, research and student success. Despite the University being constrained by inadequate funding, we are determined to succeed to deliver on our mandate.
Hon Minister, Mr. Chancellor, as we celebrate today it is imperative that we recognize the importance human capital development. Our staff have been instrumental in driving the institution’s success and it is imperative that we provide them with opportunities for growth and development. The University appeals to Government to provide funds to recruit and promote our staff.
Hon Minister, Mr, Chancellor, as you are aware MUST did not receive seed funding unlike other public universities and this has greatly affected the infrastructure growth of the University including our anchor faculty of medicine. In order for the University to achieve its full potential we appeal to Government to consider providing seed grant to MUST for infrastructure development which is essential for delivery of University services. The completion and handover of the Faculty of Computing and Informatics building is key to addressing space issues in the university as it is greatly affecting teaching and learning in the university. We appeal to Government to address this issue promptly by providing the necessary developmental funds to enable the University pay its debts and furnish the building.
Nonetheless, we remain optimistic that funds will be made available to pay off the Contractor.
Mr. Chancellor Sir, we pay tribute to Professor Celestino Obua for his legacy His tenure as Vice Chancellor was marked by strong leadership and commitment to academic excellence. His legacy is evident in the numerous accomplishments of our University that include elevating the visibility and reputation of the University nationally and internationally, increased number of graduates, research publications, grants and postgraduate completion rates. “Professor Obua”, we thank you for being an exemplary leader, academic, researcher and a good manager and dedicated service to MUST in the last 10 years. We wish you the very best in your next phase of development, while you keep intouch.
Hon Minister, Mr. Chancellor, The University Council constituted a search committee comprising of 2 members of senate and 3 Council members. Chaired by Prof. Philippa Musoke other members included: Dr. Nabaasa Evarist (Senate Representative), Dr. Stevens Kisaka, Member (Council representative), Eng. Dr. Dorothy Okello member (Senate representative), Dr. Medard Bitekyerezo (Council representative) and Dr. Martha Kyoshaba Twinamasiko Secretary to Search Committee/ AR. We commend the search committee for the rigorous and thorough search process that delivered the most qualified candidate. We also thank all the applicants that expressed interest in working for MUST.
Hon Minister, Mr. Chancellor Sir, the Council, extends a very warm welcome to Professor Pauline Byakika-Kibwika and have this to say: MUST is not short of gold standards. Prof Kayanja, first VC, set them, the outgoing VC Prof Obua, perfected them and measured himself against them. The ball is in your court as from 24th midnight! I can assure you a lot is expected of you and as a plethora of challenges await you! I on behalf of Council, wish you all the very best in your new role. The University Council is committed to supporting you in your endeavors to further elevate our institution. “Congratulations.”
In the same vein, as we welcome the incoming Vice Chancellor, may I request you the staff and students at MUST is to give her all necessary support to enable her settle in and to carry out her mandate.
Message to Graduates
Words of Encouragement: To our graduating class, I offer my heartfelt congratulations. As you embark on this new chapter of your lives, remember to stay true to your values, pursue your passions, and make a positive impact on the society.
To quote the late John F. Kennedy on importance of civic action and public service. His historic words, “Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country,” challenged every American to contribute in some way to the public good. I challenge you to reflect on these words!
May your future be filled with success and fulfillment. Once again, I congratulate all our graduates, faculty, staff, and the entire University community.
Together, we have achieved remarkable milestones. Let us continue to strive for excellence and contribute to the betterment of our society.
SUCCEED WE MUST.
