Graduates of Uganda Technology & Management University (Utamu) have been urged to look for employment opportunities beyond Uganda’s borders.
Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, the chancellor at Utamu said the East African Community had opened up opportunities in neighboring countries that they should look at.
Musyoka’s call came as he presided over Utamu’s second graduation last week. He explained that there was increasing demand for business managers and Information Communication and Technology (ICT) expertise in the region.
“You [2016 graduates] are a part of the generation faced with significant global challenges, the world is struggling with unemployment, poverty,” the former Kenyan vice president said, “Don’t just sit and wait to get jobs here, compete with Tanzanians and Kenyans in their own country.”
“We encourage all of you to please recognize the tremendous incredible significance of your achievements in making the transition and go forth and use it to better not only for yourself but your immediate family, but the nation and the world at large.”
Earlier, the vice chancellor, Prof Benon Basheka, reported that the ceremony was called for the 190 students, who had graduated, which is almost double those who completed their studies there last year.
“Of the 190 students graduating, 46 students obtained masters, 111 post graduate diplomas, 31 bachelor’s degrees and two got undergraduate diplomas; these are well trained cadres to work in all types of organizations,” Basheka said.
Representing the Education Ministry, Robert Odok Oceng, commended Utamu’s emphasis on its special niche in ICT and business.
“In the few years, UTAMU has demonstrated that technology can be useful and important mechanism of delivering education,” he said.
Oceng, who is also the ministry’s acting director, Higher Technical and Vocational Education and Training, urged Utamu to remain relevant to the market.
“You agree with me that the main challenge faced by our institutions to day is their relevance to the needs of the populations, in order to survive in this competitive world, you must demonstrate relevance in skills imparted.”
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