The Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, has pledged to strengthen the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council’s (UMSC) partnership with the International University of East Africa (IUEA), citing the institution’s focus on science, engineering and technology as critical to Uganda’s development.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to IUEA’s main campus in Kansanga, Kampala, Mubaje commended the university for offering programmes that equip students with practical skills in fields such as engineering, petroleum studies, mining and electric motorcycle technology.
The Mufti also applauded the university for extending scholarship opportunities to students through UMSC, saying the existing partnership between the two institutions would be further strengthened.
“I am delighted to return and find that what was once a place of recreation has become a centre of knowledge shaping the future of young people,” Mubaje said, referring to the site’s former use as Didi’s World amusement park.
He praised the university’s multicultural environment, describing diversity as a strength that promotes unity, mutual respect and learning among students from different backgrounds.
“Diversity is a blessing. I encourage students to embrace one another regardless of their backgrounds because education thrives where people learn from each other’s experiences,” he said.
The Mufti was accompanied by the Deputy Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Muhammad Ali Waiswa, and other senior officials from the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council.
They were received by IUEA Vice Chancellor Prof. Emeka Akaezuwa and the university’s Resident Director, Ambassador Hassan Alwi.
Prof. Akaezuwa described IUEA as a technology-driven institution committed to producing graduates equipped with practical, industry-relevant skills to meet the demands of the modern labour market.
He said the university has established partnerships with several international institutions to strengthen teaching, research and innovation while preparing students to compete globally.
During the visit, Mubaje toured lecture halls, laboratories and the university library, where he interacted with students and members of staff to gain firsthand insight into the institution’s academic environment.
The visit concluded with the exchange of commemorative gifts between the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council and the university, followed by a luncheon hosted by the IUEA management.
The renewed commitment to collaboration is expected to strengthen educational opportunities for Muslim students while promoting skills development in science, technology and innovation, areas regarded as critical to Uganda’s long-term development.
