Kampala, Uganda – November 29, 2024: The Uganda Institute of Information and Communications Technology (UICT) marked its 17th Graduation Ceremony, celebrating the achievements of 821 students who successfully completed their academic journeys. Held at the UICT campus, the event was graced by high-profile dignitaries, including Dr. Aminah Zawedde, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, as the Chief Guest, alongside inspirational guest speaker Cirus Sumika, alias Mr. Sumic, and other distinguished personalities.
*Principal’s Address: Inclusive Education and Excellence*
Dr. Frederick Kitoogo, Principal of UICT, lauded the graduands for their hard work and highlighted the institute’s commitment to inclusivity and academic excellence.
"Today, we are proud to graduate 821 students, including the first cohorts (2021/22 and 2022/23) of Government-Sponsored Students, alongside those privately sponsored. Among them, 212 are women, representing 26%, while 609 are men, making up 74% of the cohort," said Dr. Kitoogo.
He further emphasized the importance of diversity in fostering innovation and achieving sustainable development. The ceremony also celebrated the remarkable achievements of 15 students who were awarded distinctions.
"These distinctions are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to these top performers," Dr. Kitoogo added.
In his closing remarks, he urged graduates to remain committed to digital transformation, innovation, and research.
"Our world is changing rapidly, and you, as graduates, hold the key to ensuring Uganda thrives in this dynamic landscape. May this ceremony inspire you to achieve even greater heights."
*Guest Speaker: Resilience in Entrepreneurship*
Cirus Sumika, founder and CEO of Sumic Ug, delivered an inspiring keynote address, urging graduates to embrace resilience in their entrepreneurial journeys. Drawing from his personal experiences, Sumika recounted a time when his business proposal was rejected, an ordeal that fueled his determination to succeed.
"Rejection can be a stepping stone to greatness. Today, I lead a technology firm specializing in mobile applications, software solutions, and digital marketing, all because I refused to give up," Sumika stated.
He encouraged the graduands to remain steadfast in the face of challenges and to leverage their skills to create innovative solutions for Uganda's socio-economic transformation.
*Chief Guest: Bridging Technology and Good Conduct*
Dr. Aminah Zawedde, the Chief Guest, emphasized the need for the graduands to combine academic achievements with good behavior and a clean digital footprint.
"Paper and grades have to be tied up with good behavior. Your social media track should reflect the person you aspire to be," Dr. Zawedde advised.
She also challenged the graduands to become agents of technological change by sharing digital skills with their families and communities.
"Technology is not just for the young. Teach your parents and others how to use smartphones for socio-economic transformation. Plans are underway to make smartphones affordable for all Ugandans."
Representing the Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), Fred Otunnu, Director of Corporate Affairs, pledged the UCC’s unwavering support to UICT.
Comentarios