VICE CHANCELLOR’S SPEECH DURING THE HANDOVER FUNCTION FOR GLOBAL TEACHERS ASSOCIATION HELD ON 14TH OCTOBER, 2023 IN THE GUILD COUNCIL HALL
The Patron Global Teachers Association,
University Management Team,
Staff members present,
Religious Leaders,
Guild officials,
President Global Teachers’ Association Bishop Stuart University Chapter,
The Outgoing and Incoming Committee,
Postgraduate Associate Members and the entire community,
Christian greetings and good evening to you all.
I am so delighted to join you today at this auspicious function as the Guest of Honor. I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the outgoing and incoming committee and to the entire teachers’ fraternity here who have dedicated their lives in shaping the minds and molding for future generations.
It is always a joy and great honor to meet such a gathering considering the fact that, teachers still stand as strata majority within our mighty institution and most importantly, grateful to the patrons Madam Kyayemagye Florah for relentlessly offering her time and service to nurturing and grooming the young minds under Global Teachers Association and as well received an award on 11th October 2023 as an outstanding woman in education in Kazo and Kiruhura Districts.
Personally, I can’t thank you enough as the outgoing committee for efforts exhibited that have greatly impacted not only yourselves but the entire university. Suffice to add that your doors are now open on good records of the positive contributions you have made during your tenure. As you relinquish leadership to your successors, you proudly carry the memory of the history you have made and you earn a crown of distinguished service.
Teaching is a noble profession; one that empowers and transforms lives. Every teacher has a profound impact on their students, influencing not only their academic growth but also their character development. Teachers have the ability to inspire, ignite curiosity, and instill a lifelong love of learning in their students/learners; a gift that lasts far beyond the classroom.
As the Guest of Honor, I am compelled to express my gratitude to the teachers here who have left an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals. Your tireless efforts, creativity, and dedication have shaped the next generation of thinkers, innovators, and leaders. Your willingness to go above and beyond, to believe in the potential of every child, is truly commendable.
To the outgoing teachers, as you transition into a new phase of your lives, know that your impact will forever be remembered. Your guidance, wisdom, and mentorship have helped shape the future of our society. Although you may no longer be physically present in the classrooms, your influence will continue to live on through the generations of students you have taught.
And to the incoming teachers, I congratulate you on the beginning of a remarkable journey. You are embarking on a path filled with challenges, but also abundant rewards. Your passion, enthusiasm, and dedication are essential in creating an engaging and enriching environment for our students. Remember that you hold in your hands not just books, but the power to shape lives and change the world; “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world” This quote by Nelson Mandela is one of the most famous sayings on the value of education.
As we celebrate this handover function, let us also acknowledge the role of the entire educational community in supporting our teachers. Parents, administrators, and fellow educators, your collaboration and encouragement play a critical role in creating a conducive environment for learning. Let us continue to work together to provide our revered teachers with the resources, respect, and support they need to excel in their noble mission. Education is also ordained by God as our creator; 2 Timothy 3:16 “All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness”.
It is therefore undisputable that, teachers are the backbone of our society. They build the foundation upon which the future is shaped, and their influence has a lasting impact far beyond the classroom. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once noted; “The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character–that is the goal of true education.”
As the Guest of Honor, I offer my deepest appreciation for the outgoing committee members led by Mr. Oribariho Ronald and extend the warmest welcome to the incoming teachers. Together, let us continue to shine a light on the path of knowledge and inspire the hearts and minds of our students.
Our God Reigns
For God and my Country.
I thank you!
Assoc. Prof. Gershom Atukunda (PhD)
AG. VICE CHANCELLOR