Victoria University calls for AI integration as it graduates students

19 October 2026, 7:24 pm

By Ronald Ssemagonja

Victoria University has commenced its two-day graduation ceremony at Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala, with university leaders calling for greater integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into education.

The university’s 10th graduation ceremony comes as the institution marks growth from 48 graduates in 2020 to a reported total of 26,000 graduates, highlighting its contribution to Uganda’s education sector.

The university’s Chancellor, Prof. John Opuda-Asibo, called for the integration of AI across all university programmes, saying emerging fields of study required continuous curriculum reviews to keep education relevant.

Prof. Opuda-Asibo challenged universities to clearly define the levels of AI they teach, noting that the technology ranges from basic applications to more complex systems.

He said university curricula should examine AI’s benefits, disadvantages and ethical implications.

Addressing the graduates, he urged them to value their education, describing knowledge as a source of independence and an important tool for competing in life and understanding their surroundings.

He also encouraged them to develop critical thinking skills, continually review their knowledge and take responsibility for what they say and write.

Victoria University Vice Chancellor Dr. Lawrence Muganga warned that Uganda risks falling behind in the AI revolution unless deliberate steps are taken to prepare learners for technological changes.

He called on the government to introduce a nationwide One Laptop Per Child policy, proposing that every learner from Primary Five to university, including students in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, be equipped with a laptop.

Dr. Muganga said AI was already transforming education, business and employment, adding that access to technology would be essential for Uganda to achieve its Tenfold Growth Strategy target of building a $500 billion economy by 2040.

He compared the impact of AI to an iceberg striking a ship, warning that Uganda and Africa must respond to the technological changes taking place globally.

The Vice Chancellor proposed the use of solar-powered laptops and satellite internet to extend digital access to underserved communities.

He said the proposed initiative was achievable if the government made the necessary decisions and investments.

Dr. Muganga also revealed that all programmes at Victoria University were now AI-driven, with the aim of preparing students not only to pass examinations but also to succeed in their careers and daily lives.

He further announced that construction of a new university campus in Naguru, which will include a teaching hospital for the institution’s new medical school, is expected to begin in January 2027.

The ceremony attracted graduates, parents, guardians and other invited guests. Businessman Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia was represented by Meera Ruparelia and Jay Sakaria.