Universities in Uganda must shift their focus from producing graduates who rely on imported technologies to equipping them with skills to develop innovations that solve the country's challenges, according to former finance minister Prof. Ezra Suruma.
Speaking at the 19th graduation ceremony of ISBAT University in Kampala on Thursday, November 12, Prof. Suruma, a renowned economist, cautioned that Uganda risks remaining a perpetual consumer of technology if universities do not prepare students to actively participate in developing innovations in fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and automation.
"Are we preparing our young people to participate actively and effectively in this technological revolution, or are we simply preparing them to consume technologies developed elsewhere?" he asked.
The event, held at Hotel Africana, was presided over by Eng. Jonard Asiimwe Akiiki, the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation. A total of 700 students graduated in various disciplines.
Universities as Engines of Innovation
Prof. Suruma advised universities to align their research, laboratories, and academic programmes with the development of technologies that address Uganda's economic and social needs. He highlighted AI, robotics, automation, and digital financial services as some of the technologies transforming how people learn, work, and do business.
He emphasized that universities should not only focus on theoretical knowledge but also on practical skills that can drive innovation and create jobs.
Job Portal and Industry Partnerships
University Chancellor Jachan Omach praised the institution's founder, Varghese Mundamattam, for his contribution to Uganda's higher education sector. He noted that the university has established a job portal to connect graduates with employment opportunities and encourage entrepreneurship.
Omach said the initiative has increased the number of ISBAT graduates absorbed into the job market. Those who do not secure formal employment are encouraged to become job creators rather than job seekers, thanks to the skills gained at the university.
Prof. Matthew Kalmatacal added that the university is strengthening partnerships with industry to expose students to changing labour market demands. He revealed that 60% of the university's students are male and 40% female, with learners from different countries. The institution also supports students from disadvantaged backgrounds, including those from Karamoja who cannot afford higher education.
A total of 420 men and 280 women graduated at the ceremony, which also saw the university's first four PhD graduates awarded their degrees.
The call for homegrown technologies comes at a time when African countries are increasingly recognizing the need to harness digital technologies for economic development. Uganda's universities are seen as key players in this drive, but challenges such as limited funding and outdated curricula remain.
Prof. Suruma's remarks echo similar sentiments from other African leaders who have stressed the importance of investing in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education to prepare the continent's youth for the future of work.
As the world moves towards the Fourth Industrial Revolution, Uganda's ability to develop and adopt new technologies will determine its competitiveness and ability to create jobs for its growing population.
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