By Mulengera Reporters
A total of 436 students graduated from St. Lawrence University during its 15th graduation ceremony on Thursday, marking yet another milestone for the institution.
Of the graduands, 227 (52%) were male and 209 (48%) female. A majority, 271, were Ugandans, while the rest came from different East African countries, reflecting the university’s growing regional appeal.
The event, held under the theme “Embracing Artificial Intelligence in Contemporary Higher Education,” was graced by government officials, diplomats, and academic leaders.
In her speech, St. Lawrence University’s Chancellor, Maj (Rtd) Jessica Alupo, who is also the Vice President of Uganda, thanked the Almighty God for the success of the university and praised President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for creating a conducive environment that allows more young people to access higher education through private institutions.
She also acknowledged the growing partnerships, particularly with universities in Russia.
In a moment of reflection, the university held a candle-lighting tribute in honor of the late Lawrence Mukiibi, the university’s founder, recognizing his lasting contribution to education in Uganda.
Delivering the keynote address, Hon. Nyombi Thembo, Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), emphasized the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on education. “The teacher, once the sole source of knowledge, will now be a facilitator of learning. AI is democratizing knowledge, integrating insights from the best professionals worldwide, and changing how students learn,” he noted. He urged educators to embrace AI, acknowledging that students now have unprecedented access to information.
The university’s Vice Chancellor, Dr. Charles W. Masaba, reaffirmed this stance, highlighting the institution’s ongoing investments in AI research to improve teaching, learning, and administration. “AI is not just a technological advancement; it is a paradigm shift.
Our graduates must embrace it responsibly to drive efficiency and innovation,” he stated. Dr. Masaba also announced the university’s new partnership with the Research and Education Network for Uganda (RENU) to enhance internet connectivity, ensuring that St. Lawrence remains at the forefront of AI-driven education.
Alupo also praised the university’s commitment to community engagement, noting its initiatives supporting people with disabilities and its innovative training programs in fields such as Event Management.
“I am proud to note that the University has invested in supporting people with disabilities. Today we witness the service of a sign language interpreter who is a product of the University,” she said.
With graduates stepping into a rapidly evolving world, speakers at the ceremony encouraged them to adapt, innovate, and use AI as a tool for progress.
Maj (Rtd) Alupo urged the graduates to approach their future with integrity and perseverance, reminding them that their journey was just beginning.
“Departure from the University is just the beginning of your walk. Please go out but remain open to correction, counsel, and identify people of integrity to emulate,” she advised.
As St. Lawrence University continues to integrate AI into its academic programs, it remains committed to shaping a new generation of professionals equipped for the digital age.
“Use AI responsibly. It’s not just about the technology, but about the values that guide its application. May you lead the way to a brighter, more equitable future for all,” Alupo addrd.
The 15th graduation ceremony was not only a celebration of academic achievements but also a reminder of the immense responsibility the graduates carry as they go out into the world.
With a focus on Artificial Intelligence and an emphasis on ethical leadership, St. Lawrence University is preparing its students to be not just professionals but agents of positive change in the digital age. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
