Cavendish University Uganda has graduated 1,059 students from 33 nationalities during its 15th graduation ceremony, with graduates challenged to use their education to transform communities and create lasting social impact.
The ceremony was held at Speke Resort Munyonyo Convention Centre under the theme “Graduating Global Talent for Employment, Entrepreneurship and Impact.”
Addressing the Class of 2026, the university’s Chancellor and former Nigerian President, Goodluck Jonathan Ebere, urged graduates to look beyond wealth and professional titles and instead use their knowledge to address society’s challenges.
“Graduation is not the end of your journey; it is actually the beginning of a greater one,” Jonathan said.
He told the graduates that their university education comes with a responsibility to apply their knowledge for the benefit of society.
“You leave not merely holding a qualification, but carrying the responsibility to make that qualification matter—to use knowledge in service of humanity and create meaningful change wherever your journey takes you.”
Jonathan said the graduates were entering a rapidly changing world shaped by artificial intelligence, climate change and evolving global markets.
He said these changes require graduates to combine academic knowledge with integrity, innovation and adaptability.
According to Jonathan, the true measure of success should be the positive difference an individual makes in the lives of others.
“Success should never be measured only by income, influence or position. It should ultimately be measured by the difference you make in the lives of others.”
The former Nigerian leader also encouraged graduates to embrace entrepreneurship and create opportunities rather than wait for formal employment.
“Some of you will become entrepreneurs rather than waiting for opportunities. You will create them.”
Of the 1,059 graduates, 703 received bachelor’s degrees, 285 earned master’s degrees, 61 graduated with diplomas and one received a certificate.
The graduating class comprised 577 male and 473 female students.
Guest of Honour and Minister for Trade, Industry and Cooperatives Sanjay Gokaldas Tanna challenged the graduates to become problem-solvers and value creators rather than simply seeking employment.
“Do not knock on doors asking for a handout. Knock on doors showing them the value you bring,” Tanna said.
He urged the graduates to explore opportunities in agro-processing, tourism, mining, science and technology, noting that Uganda’s natural resources provide significant opportunities for young entrepreneurs.
Vice Chancellor Dr Olive Sabiiti said the university’s international footprint continues to grow, with students from 33 countries graduating during this year’s ceremony.
She also revealed that the university had introduced a virtual graduation clearance system developed by its Registry and Information Technology departments.
The system enables international students to complete graduation clearance processes remotely, reducing the need to travel to Uganda for the procedures.
The university said the innovation is part of its efforts to improve efficiency and enhance the experience of its increasingly international student community.
