In the presence of distinguished guests, including the Chief Justice of the Republic of Zambia, Dr Mumba Malila, academics, families and friends, 651 students received their Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral degree awards at the sixth Graduation Ceremony of Unicaf University in Zambia. The Ceremony, under the theme ‘Shaping Futures through Transformative Global Education’, was held at the impressive grounds of the state-of-the-art Unicaf University campus in Lusaka. The new cohort of graduates come from 57 different countries.
In her address to the graduates, the Vice-Chancellor, Dr Christine Phiri Mushibwe, stated the following: “Unicaf’s model uses technology to connect individuals and nations, shaping a global network, ready for the demands of a changing world. Invest your knowledge and integrity into national and global transformation.….. You graduate as global citizens. You have studied with peers from across the world, debated international issues, and engaged with diverse cultures. Such exposure is essential, because the challenges of climate change, inequality, conflict, public health, and artificial intelligence do not stop at borders – and neither should our solutions”.
Speaking about the importance of transformative education, the University’s Chancellor, Professor Mpazi Sinjela, stated: “In developing countries, transformative global education can be a catalyst for change. It can empower individuals, communities, and nations to break cycles of poverty, improve health outcomes, and foster sustainable economic growth. By sharing knowledge, expertise, and resources, we can bridge gaps and create opportunities for marginalized populations”.
The Guest of Honour, Chief Justice Dr Mumba Malila, referred to the importance of education in safeguarding democracy and lawfulness: “A well-educated leadership and electorate help ensure informed debate, sound policy, and respect for the rule of law. As Chief Justice, I can attest that when citizens understand their rights and duties, the wheels of justice turn more smoothly. Abraham Lincoln is often quoted as saying, ‘The philosophy of the school room in one generation will be the philosophy of government in the next’.
The candidates for the conferment degrees were presented to the Chancellor by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Research and Innovation, Dr Attridge Mwelwa, the Dean of the School of Business and Management Studies, Dr Mary Mandiringana, the Dean of the School of Education, Humanities and Social Sciences, Dr Pelekelo Kabundula and Dr Clement Mubanga Chela while Dr Daniel Mpolomoka, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor – Academic Affairs, presented the best graduating student in each programme, to receive merit awards.
On behalf of all graduates, Rudolf Henri Rittmann from Namibia, Valedictorian and graduate in the Master of Business Administration – Management Information Systems programme, stepped onto the stage to address his fellow graduates: “From lecture rooms and virtual platforms we have come to this grand celebration today, which marks the culmination of dedication, resilience, and purpose. It is a moment that reflects not only our academic achievement but also the perseverance, discipline, and unwavering spirit. We did not simply complete an academic programme; we have been transformed, we have grown, and we have triumphed. This is the true power of global education and the essence of the Unicaf spirit, that unites us across disciplines, cultures, and continents”.
The 2025 Graduation Ceremony concluded with the dissolution of the Assembly by the Chancellor, a closing prayer and the National Anthem played by the Police Brass Band.
Written by Eva Koursoumba
