By David Mwanje
At Victoria University Freshmen’s first ever meetup it was blessed with inspiration as Vice Chancellor Prof. Lawrence Muganga and renowned gospel artist Pastor Wilson Bugembe addressed students during a vibrant campus event celebrating Bugembe’s 20 years of ministry. The occasion, marked by the university’s sponsorship of Bugembe’s upcoming concert on August 8, 2025, at Serena Hotel, was more than a prelude to a musical milestone it was a clarion call for students to blend faith, practical experience, and cutting-edge technology to shape their futures.
Prof. Muganga, known for his forward-thinking approach, challenged students to look beyond traditional academics. “You spend only 16 hours a week in class,” he declared, echoing sentiments from his recent speeches at the university’s innovation forums. “The rest of your time use it to gain real world experience. I can’t teach you experience in a lecture hall, but I can guide you to opportunities.” He urged students to engage with the university’s Career and Employability Office (CEO), describing it as a transformative resource. “The CEO team, led by an incredible woman, will bridge the gap between education and the job market. Join them, and let them change your life,” he said, emphasizing the university’s mission to produce job creators, not just job seekers.
Muganga’s message took a futuristic turn as he underscored the importance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in today’s world. In a recent address at a regional education conference, he had called AI “the new normal, reshaping industries and redefining success.”
On campus, he reiterated, “Jobs are evolving, and systems are changing. Embrace AI as your friend, not your fear. Those who adapt will lead; those who don’t will be left behind.” Victoria University, he noted, is committed to equipping students with 21st-century skills, ensuring they thrive in a digital age.
Amid this call to innovation, Pastor Wilson Bugembe brought a soul-stirring message of faith and perseverance. Reflecting on his journey, he shared how prayer and scripture guided him through a childhood marked by loss. “I took God as my real father,” he said, recalling how singing and praying transformed his pain into purpose.
Quoting Psalm 23, he urged students, “You cannot live without a shepherd. A life guided by God is protected and purposeful.” His humor shone through as he recounted a vivid memory of a man kicking a cow until it nearly fell into a trench. “If a cow can rise with a shepherd’s guidance, how much more can you with God?” he asked, inspiring students to seek divine direction.
Bugembe also addressed the broader community, calling for churches to register officially to protect believers from fraudsters. “Appoint senior, knowledgeable leaders and form advisory committees to guide decisions,” he advised, emphasizing accountability in faith communities.
His words resonated deeply as he expressed gratitude to Victoria University for supporting his milestone concert, a celebration of “20 years of purpose, perseverance, and praise.”
The event was a powerful blend of spiritual and practical wisdom. Muganga’s vision for AI-driven, experience-based learning and Bugembe’s testimony of faith painted a holistic picture of success. As August 8 approaches, the Serena Hotel concert promises to be a beacon of hope, reminding students and Ugandans alike that with God, grit, and growth, no dream is too big.
Victoria University stands firm in its mission: to nurture leaders who are spiritually grounded, practically skilled, and ready to shape the future.
