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MBARARA - Graduands of Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) have been asked to celebrate the potential they hold within themselves by exploring it to develop their country.

The call was made by First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Kataha Museveni, who was represented by higher education state minister John Chrysostom Muyingo at the university’s 30th graduation ceremony on Saturday, February 24.

1470 graduates with their parents gathered at the university’s Kihumuro main campus to be conferred diplomas, degrees, masters, and PhDs in various disciplines.

“I stand before you not just as Minister of Education and Sports, but as somebody who sees in you the architect of our future, in you I see the future of Uganda,” Mrs Museveni said.

She reminded graduates that their education is not a finite journey but a long life pursuit spiced by the spirit of patriotism to make Uganda a better place for those yet to come.

John C. Muyingo, the State Minister for higher education addresses the congregation at MUST's 30th graduation ceremony on Saturday at Kihumuro compass. (All Photos by Adolf Ayoreka)

“The world is your classroom, offering experiences that will refine your skills and broaden your academic horizon, embrace curiosity, challenge assumptions and seek out knowledge with an open mind,” the minister said.

She added, “Of course, you will be called to serve, do it with diligence and apathy for those less fortunate and with love for those around you.”

Dr Faith Doreen, who graduated with a master's in paediatrics medicine said given the fact that she comes from the Karamoja sub-region where paediatricians are few, “Specialised services are very rare therefore my input is going to improve the health care services in my area”.

She added, “My passion is much in children to ensure that their health is prioritised. I am so excited and this should be an inspiration to the girls in Karamoja to take up this career.”

The ceremony was graced by the Bishop for Ankole Diocese Sheldon Mwesigwa, gender state minister Peace Mutuzo, and National Drug Authority board chairman Dr Medard Bitekyerezo, among many others.