Kampala, Uganda — The Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Dr Chris Baryomunsi, has challenged graduates of the Uganda Institute of Information and Communications Technology (UICT) to rise as innovators and job creators rather than job seekers, as he presided over the graduation of more than 600 students in ICT, engineering and management programmes.
Speaking under the graduation theme “Empowering the digital generation: building adaptive ICT talent for Uganda’s future,” the Minister told graduates that Uganda’s future lies in leveraging technology as a tool for transformation and solution-building.
> “Do not graduate as job seekers. Graduate as innovators and creators of opportunity. Technology must help you solve real problems in society,” he said.
Dr Baryomunsi illustrated his message using the Biblical story of the talents, reminding graduates that God rewards those who multiply what they are given rather than bury it.
> “Like the servants in the story of the talents, you have been entrusted with knowledge and skill. Do not bury it. Use it, grow it and let it benefit others. Those who generate value from what they are given are the ones who succeed,” he said.
The Minister stressed that innovation is no longer optional in the modern economy.
> “The world now pays for ideas, not just certificates. Be known for solutions, creativity and innovation,” he added.
In a major announcement during the ceremony, the Minister pledged to work towards transforming UICT into a national centre for ICT internship and practical training, enabling graduates to gain exposure in public institutions and the private sector.
> “We want UICT to become a hub where students get practical experience. I commit myself to making this institution a recognized centre for ICT internship in Uganda,” he announced, drawing applause from the audience.
Dr Baryomunsi also applauded UICT management and staff for maintaining training excellence and driving innovation.
> “I thank UICT for its consistency, innovation and commitment to producing high-quality ICT professionals. You are building the foundation for Uganda’s digital future,” he said.
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He encouraged graduates to consider service in government institutions, pointing out that digital service delivery, automation and cybersecurity need skilled professionals.
> “Government needs you. Step forward and build systems that improve service delivery and protect public data,” he noted.
UICT Principal, Dr Fredrick E. Kitogo, praised the Minister for supporting ICT education and reaffirmed the institution’s readiness to produce globally competitive graduates.
> “Our graduates are trained to compete beyond borders. With continued government support, UICT is set to rise as a key centre of excellence in ICT training,” he said.
Graduates expressed excitement about the Minister’s commitment to internship opportunities, while parents hailed the ceremony as both emotional and historic.
UICT operates under the supervision of the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance and continues to advance practical ICT training to support Uganda’s development vision.
The ceremony marked not only academic completion, but also the commissioning of a new generation of digital leaders entrusted with shaping the nation’s technological future.
