Kabale University Launches First Campus in Rukungiri to Boost Higher Education Access
Rukungiri: Kabale University has officially launched its first campus in Rukungiri District, aimed at increasing access to higher education and supporting the government’s plan for socio-economic transformation.
The launch event took place on May 23, at the former Rukungiri Primary Teachers’ College in Buyanja Town Council. This move follows a national policy to convert teacher training colleges into university campuses, in response to the phasing out of Grade III teaching certificates in favor of degree-level training.
The Principal Education Officer in charge of University Education and Training at the Ministry of Education and Sports Eric Gitta, said the transformation of teacher colleges into university campuses was designed to meet the growing demand for higher education. He added that the decision supports President Yoweri Museveni’s commitment to expand university education across Uganda.
Gitta also said the Ministry welcomes the initiative, which he believes will help improve teachers’ academic qualifications and professional skills.
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The Vice Chancellor of Kabale University Professor Joy Constance Kwesiga, expressed joy over the new campus, saying it will officially open in August. She said it will start with education courses and a few selected courses such as Agriculture.
Prof. Kwesiga added that Kabale University is committed to raising education standards in Rukungiri and that the new campus will support the region’s education sector.
Also speaking at the 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. He stressed that education is the foundation for transforming communities
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The Bishop of North Kigezi Diocese Rt. Rev. Onesimus Asiimwe, praised the partnership between Kabale University and the former teachers’ college. He said it marks a new era of academic growth and innovation in the district.
Bishop Asiimwe noted that the campus will improve access to university education for students in Rukungiri and nearby areas, giving them more chances to earn degrees and build better futures.
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This Rukungiri campus is the first public university campus in the district and is expected to play a key role in improving education and supporting economic growth in the region.