President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has officially presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for the long-awaited Bunyoro Public University. The ceremony took place at Nyantwe Cell, Buhimba Town Council in Kikuube District, marking a significant milestone in the region’s education sector.
The university will be established on a 100-acre piece of land generously donated by Dr. Henry Wamani, a resident of Kikuube District. President Museveni acknowledged that the project had faced delays due to financial constraints but assured the public that the government is now prepared to fully finance its construction.
Museveni emphasized the importance of the university, stating that it will provide quality education for children in the region. He urged parents and local leaders to encourage their children to embrace Universal Primary Education (UPE) and Universal Secondary Education (USE) to qualify for university education. Additionally, he stressed the need for economic empowerment at the household level to ensure that children can afford to pursue higher education.
The President also called on university planners to prioritize programs that create employment opportunities, aligning education with national development goals. He reassured the people of Bunyoro that with expected oil revenues in the coming year, the government will invest in more development projects, including education.
The Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataha Museveni, revealed that the government has allocated UGX 15 billion to kick-start construction. She tasked the university’s task force, led by Professor Samuel Kyamanywa, to commence implementation without delay. The minister highlighted that the government has already invested UGX 6.4 billion in preliminary processes since the establishment of the task force in July 2022.
Hon. Janet Museveni further appreciated Dr. Wamani for donating the land and confirmed that the university’s academic programs have been submitted to and approved by the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE).
Professor Kyamanywa noted that 18 academic programs have been identified, focusing on science, technology, and ethical education. He affirmed that the university would enhance access to higher education for students transitioning from UPE and USE.
Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja announced that the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Engineering Brigade has been contracted to undertake the construction. She highlighted the university’s role in fostering economic development by creating jobs and attracting investment.
Andrew Byakutaga, the Prime Minister of Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom, expressed gratitude for the project, citing its long-standing demand among residents. He noted that the lack of a local university had previously forced many students to abandon their education due to high costs.
Other leaders, including Hoima Woman MP Harriet Businge and Kikuube LCV Chairperson Peter Banura, urged the people of Bunyoro to prepare for the opportunities the university will bring. They called for unity among leaders to support government initiatives and maximize the benefits of the institution.
The establishment of Bunyoro Public University marks a transformative step towards improving education and fostering socio-economic growth in the region.