By Joseph muyingo
Victoria University Vice Chancellor Prof. Lawrence Muganga has called on government to introduce a nationwide laptop programme for learners, warning that Uganda risks being left behind as Artificial Intelligence reshapes education, business and employment.
Muganga says providing laptops to learners from Primary Five through university and technical and vocational education institutions would help equip the next generation with digital skills needed to compete in an increasingly technology-driven economy.
Speaking during Victoria University’s 10th graduation ceremony at Speke Resort Munyonyo, Muganga proposed the use of solar-powered laptops and satellite internet to reach learners in underserved and hard-to-reach communities.
He argued that expanding access to digital technology should be treated as a national policy priority if Uganda is to achieve its ambition of building a 500-billion-dollar economy by 2040.
Muganga said Victoria University has already integrated Artificial Intelligence into its academic programmes, with a focus on preparing students for the demands of the changing workplace rather than examinations alone.
The university’s Chancellor, Prof. John Opuda-Asibo, also called for continuous curriculum reviews to incorporate emerging technologies, cautioning that students must understand both the benefits and risks of Artificial Intelligence.
The ceremony saw 2,600 students graduate from various academic programmes, as the university highlighted its growth from 180 students in 2020 to a reported current enrolment of 16,000.
Muganga also announced plans to begin construction of a new campus in Naguru in January 2027, which is expected to include a teaching hospital to support the university’s medical school.
The calls come amid growing debate about how Uganda can widen access to digital learning and equip young people with the skills required to participate in the emerging AI-driven economy.
