Prof. Edward Rugumayo, a former speaker of the National Consultative Council (NCC), also known as the 4th parliament of Uganda, has been appointed as the inaugural Chancellor of Mountains of the Moon University, located in Tooro.
Having previously served as a minister in Gen. Museveni’s government for a considerable period, Prof. Rugumayo now assumes leadership of this institution, which has transitioned back to government ownership after operating as a private establishment for 13 years.
The installation of Rugumayo has been done by workaholic Vice President Maj. Jessica Alupo who represented Gen. Yoweri Museveni at the 15th graduation ceremony held at Lake Saaka Campus-Fortportal Tourism City.
Alupo congratulated Rugumayo upon his installation as the first Chancellor, noting that he embodies qualities that would drive the university to the desired level.
“The role of the Chancellor is one of great importance, serving as a symbol of leadership, wisdom and commitment to the ideals and values that define the university education agenda. Today, therefore, I am confident that we have installed an individual who embodies these qualities and who will guide our University on a path of continued excellence,” she noted.
To the Graduands
The country’s No.2 informed the graduands that as they leave school, the encouraging part of facing the new chapter is that they are leaving the University space, already equipped with the knowledge, skills, and experiences gained during their studies.
“Education is a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty and I hope that you will contribute to the development of a knowledge-based economy, driving advancements in Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI),” she said.
Alupo said the NRM embraced the notion that Education plays a pivotal role in the transformation of nations, serving as a cornerstone for socioeconomic and cultural development.
The VP said the higher education sub-sector of Uganda requires a deliberate effort to not only leverage, but reposition all the required inputs; staff, curriculum review development and infrastructure, to optimize the Human Capital Development role to stimulate Uganda’s Vision 2040, and technological advancements.
“By advancing in education, Uganda has a chance to equip individuals with the knowledge, skills and competencies needed to contribute effectively to the workforce,” she noted.
She said that the NRM Government is committed to providing more scholarships and supporting students enrolling on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)courses and other courses that are marketable in the current local job market.
Alupo who is also Katakwi district woman MP added that the government’s strategy also includes the exploration of the introduction of new sponsorships for Scientific, Technical Engineering and Innovations (STEI) programs that foster entrepreneurship, technological advancements and a culture of innovation. She said all these are critical for sustained economic growth.
Prioritize Research
The VP challenged the university’s leadership to prioritize the promotion of research and innovation, saying Uganda’s development aspirations require active engagement of scientific and technological research to make an effective contribution to the Country’s growth.
“Mountains of the Moon as a publicly funded institution, has the potential to play a role in strengthening our national innovation performance which is a pillar required to improve the competitiveness of Uganda’s industrial development. As Government, we strongly believe that universities should be drivers of technological progress,” she advised.
Alupo said Uganda’s technology hubs should essentially adopt and develop cutting-edge technologies, leading to increased efficiency and competitiveness.
She pledged the government’s commitment to the university to enable it to complete its ongoing infrastructure some of which will among other things provide access to business incubation and scientific equipment.
She encourages people to think of education not only as an investment in their children but also as a promoter for national transformation.
“The Government is committed to investing in all primary, secondary, tertiary, and higher education systems, as a premise for laying the foundation for a prosperous, innovative and socially cohesive future,” she said.
About the Bumpy Road
The 2iC from Katakwi however, had to brave the bad road from Kampala-Mubende and then Mubende-Fortportal. She brought smiles to the faces of the Batooro when she said already a program is already underway to make the road as smooth a stable lake.
