Kampala International University (KIU) on Saturday, June 17, 2023, passed out 2530, out of which 1398 (55%) were males and 1132 (45%) females.
Comparing the contribution of campuses to this number, Western Campus had 1370 (54%) and 1160 (46%) were from the Main Campus. Out of the 2530 graduands, 1440 (57%) were from non-science disciplines and 1090 (43%) from the sciences.
Congratulating the graduands upon the massive achievement, Vice Chancellor Prof. Mouhamad Mpezamihigo reminded graduands that they have the duty to protect the award obtained by each one of them.
“Reflect on your colleagues who have been unable to complete their studies for one reason or another. Wherever you go, be generous to others, forgiving is the best way to save. This may sound like a contradiction, but life requires that we feel for others and in that way, we build strong bonds that will become meaningful later in life,” he advised the fresh graduands.
The Chairperson University Council, KIU, Pro. Maud Kamatenesi who was in attendance also went on to congratulate the graduands, imploring them to go forth and make KIU proud.
“Graduands; as you venture forth into the world, remember that success has a multitude of friends. More so, success lies in living a life of purpose, meaning, and fulfillment,” Prof. Kamatenesi said.
She also advised the fresh graduands to career their passions, and never lose sight of the values that define them.
“As you journey further on in your lives, don’t forget to move with God in everything you do and ensure to put Him at the centre of your lives and careers,” she added.
Attending the 27th graduation ceremony as Chancellor for the very first time, the new Chancellor Prof. Yunus Mgaya delivered a ‘take home’ message to the graduands as they join the diverse workforce.
“Please avoid being picky in the job search or creation. Start in your own humble circumstances and grow in the years ahead,” he advised.
The KIU Chairman Board of Trustees, Dr. Al Haji Hassan Basajjabalaba further thanked the University staff for the efforts they are making to ensure that KIU is positioned at the leading edge in higher education not only in Uganda but also on the continent.
“Am happy to note that our collective efforts as stakeholders of the institution have paid off with visible and impressive results. It’s our collective commitment that has created visible and impressive results at KIU. I pray we keep it up,” he said.
“I once again thank the Almighty God for His favour upon this University. KIU will always remain committed to Africa’s transformation through providing quality higher education,” Dr. Basajjabalaba added.
Issuing final remarks, the Chief Guest Her Excellency, Hon. Jessica Alupo, the Vice President of the Republic of Uganda, ably represented by Judith Nalule Nabakooba, the Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development also congratulating the graduands.
“Today, KIU releases yet another batch of graduates into the world of work in the most difficult of times given the economic hardships resulting from recent long lockdowns, skyrocketing commodity prices, and generally tough times of the national and global economies,” she said in her speech.
“We are hopeful that what the graduands have acquired at KIU, will be the springboard of their success in the years to come,” she added.
In her final remarks, she called upon all the graduands to consider their achievement today as a starting point to get themselves to the next level.
“For example, if you undertook a certificate, you should think about advancing it further to the degree level and beyond. The same applies to those who will be awarded PhDs, to plan to contribute to new knowledge, pursue postdoctoral programs, further their research unearthed from their PhD work, and come up with different innovations in order to remain relevant to society,” she advised.
KIU is the 2nd Overall, and the leading private University in Uganda. It has crossed borders and is a reflection of a truly East African university by establishing another KIU in Tanzania and an upcoming one in Kenya.
KIU has become one of the best private institutions in the country that has contributed to the human capital development of not only Ugandans, but also other neighboring countries like Somalia, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and many more, and bringing together both staff and students from over 23 countries around the World.