By Patriot Corps .
President Yoweri Museveni has urged universities to focus on research and academic programs that address Uganda’s developmental needs. Speaking through Vice President Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo during the 9th graduation ceremony at the University of Kisubi.
Museveni emphasized the importance of self-reliance in driving Uganda’s progress. “We cannot sit back and wait for other people to come and develop Uganda,” he said. He called on the graduates to utilize the country’s growing power resources, such as the 600-megawatt Karuma Dam, to create jobs and propel Uganda towards middle-income status.
Museveni highlighted the progress Uganda has made under NRM leadership, from peace and infrastructure development to increasing power production from 80 megawatts to over 2000 megawatts. He urged the graduates to take advantage of these achievements, warning them against reckless living, corruption, and bad politics.
The president praised the University of Kisubi for its research and innovations, noting that they align with the NRM manifesto and Vision 2040, which aims to transform Uganda into a prosperous country. “The role you have played over the years, especially in education, health, social services, preaching, and promoting peaceful coexistence, is commendable,” Museveni said, promising continued government support.
He also acknowledged the contributions of the Catholic Church and the Brothers of Christian Instruction, crediting their partnership in national development. “The NRM’s DNA is to partner with private individuals, organisations, and institutions to provide services and develop our people,” he noted.
Dr. Chrysostom Muyingo, the State Minister for Higher Education, echoed the president’s call for solution-focused courses, urging universities to align their programs with national needs as outlined in the NRM manifesto.
Br. Casio Aizire, the Chancellor of the University of Kisubi, celebrated the institution’s progress, including the graduation of 34 science teachers through the Science Teacher Scholarship Scheme. He praised President Museveni for his support and highlighted the university’s recognition as second in the Public and Chartered University category during the National Council for Higher Education’s exhibition. Aizire emphasized the university’s expansion into biomedical sciences and plans to offer nursing and midwifery programs.