Mbarara University Holds 31st Graduation, Welcomes New Vice Chancellor

Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) held its 31st graduation ceremony on 19th October 2024, awarding degrees to 1,615 graduates.

The event, which also featured the introduction of Professor Pauline Byakika Kibwika as the university’s new Vice Chancellor, was marked by a ceremonial handover from outgoing Vice Chancellor, Professor Celestino Obua.

Mr. Muzamil Mukwatampora from the Ministry of Education and Sports attended as the chief guest, commending the university’s achievements and encouraging continued leadership in science and technology.

Chancellor Professor Charles Lwanga Mark Olweny conferred degrees on the graduates, which included 973 male and 642 female students. Among them were 227 postgraduate students, with 16 PhD candidates completing their studies.

Professor Olweny commended the collective efforts of the university’s staff, administration, and parents for supporting the graduates on their academic journey. He also emphasized the importance of leadership and service to the community in his address to the new graduates.

As part of his speech, Professor Olweny lauded the outgoing Vice Chancellor, Professor Obua, for his decade of service. “I could not have asked for a better leader,” he said, praising Obua’s leadership and contributions to the institution. He also extended his full support to Professor Byakika Kibwika, the newly appointed Vice Chancellor, and expressed confidence in her ability to continue the university’s trajectory of excellence.

In his remarks, Mr. Muzamil Mukwatampora, representing the Ministry of Education, commended MUST for its exemplary performance in the fields of science and technology. “MUST has established itself as an icon of science and technology in Uganda,” Mukwatampora stated, urging Professor Byakika to preserve and enhance this legacy.

The Chairman of the University Council also addressed the graduates, encouraging them to carry forward the legacy of their alma mater. He expressed pride in the accomplishments of the students and applauded the efforts of the Vice Chancellor search committee for their thorough work in selecting a successor.

Outgoing Vice Chancellor Professor Obua reflected on his 10-year tenure at MUST, thanking the university community for their support. He described his time in leadership as a valuable learning experience and extended his apologies for any shortcomings. He urged both staff and students to remain focused on research, innovation, and productive activities. “Let’s focus on advancing knowledge and learning instead of wasting time on unproductive endeavors,” he advised.

The grand event was attended by over 6,500 guests, including dignitaries, parents, sponsors, and partners. Security was managed by the Uganda Police Force alongside the university’s security team. Event organization was overseen by the Academic Registrar, Dr. Martha Kyoshaba Twinamasiko, with various partners providing technical support, including NBS Television for live streaming and Grace and Family Events for decoration.

The ceremony was a celebration of academic excellence and the transition in leadership, marking a new chapter for the university under the stewardship of Professor Byakika Kibwika.