Government has officially embarked on the construction of Bunyoro University, a public institution aimed at providing quality education and opportunities for the people of Bunyoro.
The groundbreaking ceremony took place in Buhimba, presided over by President Museveni and the Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Kataaha Museveni.
Bunyoro University will be established on 100 acres of land generously donated by Canon Dr. Henry Wamani and his family.
Minister Janet Museveni revealed that the government has already invested shs6.4 billion in preparations for the university, with an additional shs15 billion allocated for construction.
“Since July 2022, the government has invested shs 6.4 billion in preparing for this university. With 18 approved science-based academic programs in place, today’s groundbreaking brings us closer to full accreditation. An additional shs15 billion has been allocated for construction,” she stated.
The minister expressed her gratitude to Bunyoro stakeholders, especially Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, for their efforts in making the project a reality. She also praised Canon Dr. Henry Wamani and his family for their generous contribution.
“My prayer is that Dr. Wamani and his family live to witness the fruits of their generosity. As Proverbs 11:25 states, ‘A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.’ May the Lord grant them favor and good health for this noble act of giving,” she said.
Bunyoro University will join the ranks of Uganda’s ten existing public universities, expanding access to higher education in the region.
During the ceremony, President Museveni thanked Canon Dr. Henry Wamani and his family for their patriotic sacrifice in donating the land.
However, he emphasized the urgent need to fully implement free education in government schools to ensure that children from poor families do not drop out before reaching university.
“My question to the people of Bunyoro is, how will you ensure that your children get into this university if we do not collectively tackle the issue of school fees? Insist on free education for children in government schools and implement it. The rich can take their children to private schools, but those from poor families should have no excuse for dropping out,” President Museveni stated.
He warned that if poverty continues to force children out of school, the local community may not fully benefit from the university.
“If families are still poor, children will drop out of school. If they drop out, who will attend this university? You will find students from other regions because local children didn’t complete primary or secondary education,” he cautioned.
