Avance International University held its 5th Graduation Ceremony at its campus in Nabweru, Wakiso District, bringing together university management, academic staff, government officials, diplomats, cultural representatives, members of parliament, parents, guardians, media partners, and other invited guests to celebrate the academic achievements of the graduating students.

The ceremony was graced by His Majesty the Issabaruuli Issabarongo Mwatyansozi Mwogezi Butamanya, who served as the Guest of Honour, alongside Dr. Gracious Ariyo Kazaara, Chairperson of the Board of Directors. Other distinguished guests included government officials, members of parliament, diplomats, parents, guardians, and media partners.

The ceremony celebrated the accomplishments of students who successfully completed various certificate, diploma, undergraduate, and postgraduate programmes offered by the university.

According to the Vice Chancellor, Dr. Kato Kimata Joshua, a total of 164 students graduated during the 5th graduation ceremony.

Remarks by the Guest of Honour

In his address, His Majesty the Issabaruuli Issabarongo Mwatyansozi Mwogezi Butamanya, the Guest of Honour, congratulated the graduates upon successfully completing their studies and reaching the university’s 5th graduation ceremony.

He observed that graduation represents a significant milestone in human capital development and contributes to national development through improved employability, innovation, and the development of skilled citizens.

His Majesty also commended the proprietors and management of Avance International University for their efforts in responding to the educational and human-resource needs of the country. He appreciated the university’s contribution to society through education and skills development.

He further noted the importance of the partnership between the Baruuli Kingdom and the university, expressing the view that the relationship would extend beyond academic expectations and continue to create opportunities for cooperation and development.

Remarks by Hon. Grace Ngabirano Akifeza

Hon. Grace Ngabirano Akifeza, the State Minister for Defence and Veterans Affairs, addressed the ceremony and called upon parents and other stakeholders to give attention to the empowerment of the boy child alongside continued efforts to empower girls.

She emphasized the importance of creating a balanced and supportive community environment in which both boys and girls are given opportunities to develop their potential.

The Minister also shared aspects of her personal experience, particularly her journey of combining motherhood and education. She used her experience to demonstrate that pursuing education while carrying family responsibilities can be challenging but achievable, and that determination can enable individuals to realize their aspirations and assume leadership responsibilities.

Her message encouraged the graduates and members of the audience to remain committed to their ambitions while recognizing the importance of family and community support.

Remarks by the Cultural Counsellor of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran

Mr. Rezaei D. Ali Asghar, Cultural Counsellor of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran, congratulated the graduates, their families, professors, and the university management on the occasion.

He described graduation as not only the completion of an academic journey but also the beginning of a new chapter characterized by new opportunities, responsibilities, and aspirations.

The Cultural Counsellor emphasized the role of education in building bridges between nations, cultures, and people. He stated that the Islamic Republic of Iran is ready to strengthen academic cooperation with Uganda, highlighting opportunities available in Iranian universities, particularly at the Master’s and PhD levels.

He expressed the readiness of the Cultural Counsellor’s office at the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Kampala to work with the university to:

• Develop academic exchanges;
• Connect the university with relevant Iranian universities;
• Facilitate information about scholarship opportunities;
• Support qualified Ugandan students seeking further studies; and
• Strengthen academic and people-to-people relations between Uganda and Iran.

He encouraged the graduates to continue learning, pursue their dreams, and apply the knowledge and skills acquired through their education to serve their communities and contribute to Uganda’s development.

He concluded by congratulating the graduates once again and wishing them success, happiness, and a bright future.

Key Themes of the Ceremony

Several important themes emerged throughout the graduation ceremony:

 Human Capital Development

The ceremony highlighted the importance of education and skills development in preparing citizens to participate meaningfully in national development.

Employability and Innovation

The Guest of Honour emphasized the contribution of graduates to employability and innovation, encouraging them to translate their academic knowledge into practical solutions for society.

Gender and Inclusive Empowerment

The remarks by Hon. Grace Ngabirano Akifeza emphasized the need for a balanced approach to empowerment, particularly by ensuring that the development and welfare of the boy child also receive appropriate attention.

 International Academic Cooperation

The remarks from the Iranian Cultural Counsellor demonstrated the potential for increased educational cooperation between Ugandan institutions and universities in Iran, particularly through academic exchanges and postgraduate scholarship opportunities.

Partnerships for Community Development

The ceremony also underscored the importance of partnerships between educational institutions, cultural institutions, traditional leadership, government, diplomatic missions, families, and communities.

The 5th Graduation Ceremony of Avance International University was a significant occasion that celebrated the academic achievements of 164 graduates, comprising 109 females and 55 males.

The ceremony brought together leaders from traditional institutions, government, academia, diplomacy, the community, and the media, demonstrating the broad role of higher education in society.

Mr. Rezaei D. Ali Asghar, Cultural Counsellor of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran speaking at the 5th Graduation ceremony

Hon. Grace Akifeza Ngabirano — Minister of State for Defence (Defence)