President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called upon institutions of higher learning to prioritize the teaching of science and technology courses. He emphasized the importance of equipping learners with skills relevant to the demands of the modern job market.
The president’s message, delivered by the Rt. Honourable Prime Minister Robina Nabbanja, came during the 33rd graduation ceremony of the Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU), held on Saturday, December 14, in Mbale City. Museveni underscored the urgent need for career guidance in schools, highlighting that a lack of direction results in fewer students pursuing science and ICT-related programs.
“There is a high demand for professionals such as doctors, science teachers, nurses, engineers, and ICT experts in the private sector,” the president noted. “However, many learners are not choosing these fields because they are not guided effectively. Educational institutions must step up and address this gap.”
In addition to his call for career-oriented education, the president urged the graduates to prioritize their well-being by adopting positive and healthy lifestyles.
This year, IUIU conferred degrees and diplomas on 2,691 students, comprising 1,503 females (56%) and 1,188 males (44%) from various academic disciplines.
The Rector of IUIU, Assoc. Prof. Ismail Simbwa Gyagenda highlighted IUIU’s strides in promoting science and innovation. “We are establishing a Center for Science, Technology, and Innovation, aiming to position IUIU as a leading hub for scientific advancement and technological development,” he said.
SOURCE: IUIU
