Rukungiri– After a long wait, Rukungiri district has finally got a public University which will soon open its doors for pioneer students in August this year 2025.
The coming of this university attached to kabale is in a move aligned with the government’s strategic overhaul of the education sector and it comes as part of a broader initiative by the government to phase out Primary Teachers’ Colleges across the country, marking a pivotal shift in the landscape of teachers’ education in Uganda.
The decision to restructure the educational framework stems from the implementation of a new teachers’ education policy, aiming at enhancing the quality of teacher training programs and ultimately improve the standard of education in the nation.
Mr Geoffrey Kyomukama, the Rukungiri district chairperson says the university will greatly transform the livelihoods of local people not only in education but also in other sectors of life.
“Am the happiest man today after seeing my people (district) getting a first ever university in its life time history. This university will greatly support us with nearby education services to our people who have travelling to kabale, Mbarara and Kampala looking foe university education services. It has come so let’s welcome by bringing our children to study from here” Mr Kyomukama said.
Ms Musimenta Clare, the minister of education, Sports and Tourism is so optimistic that university of great importance to people of Rukungiri.
‘’Am so thankful to the Lord that we have got a university , God has finally answered our prayers but am appealing to our people please let’s use it to develop our district in terms of education and increasing our levels of income because it will create market for our products like food items and many more’’. Ms Musimenta said.
Dr.Annet Mugisha Kajura, the Asst. commissioner at the ministry of education, ITC and sports in- charge of teacher education said the government is committed to facilitating a seamless transition.
‘’Efforts are underway to provide necessary support mechanisms, including training opportunities and resource allocation, to ensure a smooth continuation of academic operations during this period of transformation’’ she noted.
She however tasked the university administration to respect and protect valves of the foundation body in their operations.
Speaking at the same event, Kabale University Chancellor Prof. Mondo Kagonyera said ” the launch is part of the government’s wider strategy to upgrade teacher education to degree level stressing that education is the foundation for transforming communities”.
Speaking on behalf of Kabale University, the Vice chancellor Prof. Joy C. Kwesiga expressed enthusiasm about this collaborative endeavor, emphasizing the institution’s dedication to elevating the standards of teacher education and contributing to the nation’s educational development.
‘’Am so humbled to the Bishop and the PTC stakeholders for their support and pledged commitment to upholding the rich educational heritage of Rukungiri Primary Teacher’s College.’’ Prof. Kwesiga said.
The first ever university will be housed by the buildings of the former Rukungiri primary teachers college in Nyakeina parish, Buyanja sub-county Rukungiri District.
The collaboration aims to integrate resources, expertise, and academic programs to enrich the educational experience for students and faculty. It is anticipated that this union will lead to an expanded curriculum, increased research opportunities, and access to advanced facilities for both institutions.
The transition process will prioritize preserving Rukungiri Primary Teacher’s College’s esteemed traditions and values while incorporating modern teaching methodologies and resources from Kabale University.
What residents said about university?.
“We are so humbled that we have also gotten university. Our agricultural produce are going to get a market because people working in the university will need eat and even students and that’s money ” Ms Maggie Muhwezi , a resident of Buyanja town council said.
Mr Agaba Emmy Rubondo, the Lc3 Buyanja sub- county is so optimistic that the university will work for Rukungiri people in different ways.
“Having a university means a lot , people will get jobs, market for local products will be created and that’s development ” Mr Rubondo said.
Ms Breada Asiimwe , a mother of 4 and a resident of Nyakagyeme sub- county in Rukungiri district says ” My daughter completed her “A” level this year, am so lucky that my daughter will study her university studies near my home. This is a blessing”.
