Dear graduands, parents, sponsors and faculty, today we gather here to celebrate a
significant milestone in your lives. The success of our students and children graduating
today is a shared success of all of us. As Chancellor, it is my greatest honour to address you
on this remarkable occasion and to share with you some perspectives of life as you all
graduate from the ivory tower to the very challenging world.
Graduation marks the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. It
signifies the acquisition of knowledge, the development of critical thinking skills, and the
nurturing of your intellectual curiosity. It is a testament to your resilience and determination
to succeed in the face of challenges. However, your journey doesn’t end here. In fact, it is
just the beginning of a new chapter that holds immense potential and opportunities.
For this kind of ceremony, the university couldn’t have thought of a better theme than
what they have coined: strengthening academia/industry partnerships for increasing
graduate employability and entrepreneurship. You, the graduands – soon to be graduates –
are about to be released into the world to put into use your acquired knowledge, skills and
competences. You will need either to find jobs or to start up ventures for self-employment.
In today’s rapidly evolving world, the demands of the job market are continually changing.
Employers seek graduates who possess not only a solid academic foundation but also the
practical skills and industry-relevant experiences necessary to excel in their chosen fields.
This is where the collaboration between academia and industry becomes paramount.
Academia and industry partnerships foster a dynamic ecosystem that bridges the gap
between theory and practice. By working hand in hand, universities and industries can co-
create educational programmes that align with the needs of the job market.
Through internships, cooperative education programmes, and collaborative research
initiatives, students gain exposure to real-world challenges, develop a deeper understanding
of industry dynamics, and enhance their employability. Today’s Commencement Speaker
has clearly explained this and I thank him for a job well done.
The partnerships between Academia and Industry provide a platform for industry
professionals to share their expertise, mentor students, and offer invaluable insights into
the workings of the corporate world. By tapping into this vast reservoir of knowledge and
experience, graduates are better equipped to adapt to the rapidly changing landscape and
contribute meaningfully to their respective industries.
Moreover, academia/industry partnerships also nurture the spirit of entrepreneurship
among our graduates. They serve as incubators of innovation, fostering an environment that
encourages students to think creatively, take reasonable risks, and develop an
entrepreneurial mindset. By facilitating access to resources, mentorship, and networking
opportunities, these partnerships provide a solid foundation for budding entrepreneurs to
transform their ideas into successful ventures.
I applaud the leadership of Cavendish University Uganda for continuing to strengthen and
expand these collaborations. Bringing here the CEO of the East African Business Council all
the way from Arusha, Tanzania, is highly commended. The academia, must actively engage
with industry leaders, stay abreast of emerging trends, and adapt their curricula to equip
students with the skills that are in high demand. Simultaneously, industries should actively
participate in shaping educational programmes, provide internships and apprenticeships,
and support research and development initiatives as a sure way to get a workforce that is
productive.
As I conclude, I congratulate each and every one of you on your remarkable achievements.
The future holds infinite possibilities, and I have no doubt that you have received sufficient
transformation of character and learning in this university.
Remember that opportunities do not always favour those who have only the needed skills
and competences but more so those with integrity and character. As you embark on this
exciting journey, always remember the values instilled in you during your time here, and
strive to make a positive difference in the world.
As your Chancellor, you all have my blessing and encouragement to make all your dreams
come true and succeed in all your endeavours
In line with the motto of the University ‘Educare Mundum’ which is Latin phrase for
‘Educate the World’, I charge all of you, our dear graduands, to leverage all the knowledge
you have acquired from CUU and shine your lights to illuminate and improve our world, by
starting with your countries and the continent.
SUCCESS BEGINS AT CAVENDISH
H.E. Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan
President, Federal Republic of Nigeria (2010-2015)
Chancellor
Cavendish University Uganda
