Prof Muganga calls for AI integration in Uganda’s Higher Education

Mbarara, Uganda:– Victoria University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Lawrence Muganga, has reiterated the urgent need to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital innovation into Uganda’s higher education system, stating that the country risks being left behind if it does not embrace technological advancements.

Speaking at the 6th Annual Higher Education Conference 2025 in Mbarara, Prof. Muganga emphasized that AI is not merely a tool for enhancement but a fundamental necessity for modern education.

“AI is no longer an option; it is a requirement for any education system that seeks to remain relevant in today’s digital era,” he said, adding that while other nations are rapidly adopting AI to improve learning and teaching, Uganda must act swiftly to remain competitive in the global knowledge economy.

The conference, which brought together key education stakeholders, including Hon. Janet Museveni, Minister of Education and Sports, focused on the transformative role of AI in education.

Prof. Muganga emphasized that AI-powered platforms could revolutionize learning by offering personalized tutoring, digital libraries with 24/7 access, and virtual laboratories. “Imagine a world where every student has an AI-powered personal tutor that helps them learn at their own pace,” he said.

The Revolutionary VC highlighted AI’s potential to empower educators by automating routine administrative tasks, allowing them to dedicate more time to mentorship, research, and innovation. “Lecturers should be focusing on inspiring and mentoring students, not being bogged down by unnecessary paperwork. AI can take over repetitive tasks so that teachers can do what they do best: educate,” he explained.

With AI expected to create millions of jobs globally by 2030, Prof. Muganga warned that Uganda must prepare its graduates with future-ready skills. “AI is creating a new economy, and if we don’t train our students in AI, data science, and digital entrepreneurship, we are failing them,” he warned, proposing a structured roadmap for AI adoption.

He further urged universities to begin by testing AI-powered learning tools before rolling them out nationwide and called for strategic partnerships between educational institutions and technology firms to provide AI infrastructure, training, and internship opportunities for students.

“We need to collaborate with tech giants to bring AI into our classrooms. We cannot do it alone,” he said. “AI is not just for computer scientists. Whether you are studying law, business, or agriculture, AI is going to affect your field. Every student must be equipped with AI knowledge,” he added.

Muganga also advocated for the use of AI in tackling Uganda’s pressing development challenges, particularly in agriculture, healthcare, and business innovation. However, he cautioned that AI should complement rather than replace human educators. “Technology should support teaching, not eliminate the human connection that is crucial in education,” he said.

Under his transformational leadership, Victoria University, which he spearheads, has already positioned itself as a model for AI-driven education, proving that Uganda can be a leader in digital transformation.

The Canadian-born Ugandan educator, therefore, called on the government, policymakers, and the private sector to make AI adoption in education a national priority. “With the right investment and commitment, Uganda’s education system can be redefined. We must act now, or we risk falling behind,” he concluded.