Local leaders in the Bugisu sub-region have renewed calls for the government to fulfill its long-standing pledge to establish a public university in Mbale.
However, the State Minister for Primary Education, Joyce Moriku Kaducu, has urged patience, reassuring stakeholders that the government remains committed to delivering on the presidential promise.
John Gimuguni, chairperson of the University Establishment Committee, disclosed that Mbale District Local Government had already allocated 50 acres of land in anticipation of the university’s development.
“We were told to wait until 2025 after completion of Bunyoro and Busoga Universities. It’s now 2025, but there’s no indication in the Ministerial Budget Framework Paper or the national budget for the financial year 2025/26,” Gimuguni said.
He cited a meeting held on March 18, 2024, between Bugisu stakeholders and the Ministry of Education and Sports in Kampala, during which it was reiterated that new public universities would be rolled out in phases.
“We still don’t know which phase Mbale University falls under—stakeholders need clarity,” he added.
Gimuguni also expressed concern that the National Development Plan IV (2025–2030) makes no reference to the establishment of new public universities, casting doubt on the government’s level of commitment.
He warned that continued delays, coupled with the rising cost of education, are contributing to school dropouts across the region.
In response, Moriku acknowledged Bugisu’s persistent demand for a public university and confirmed that the region is among the 18 educational zones earmarked to host one under the government’s policy.
“Mbale University is on the list, but it won’t happen immediately because it is a huge investment that requires a lot of money and careful planning,” she said.
“We want to implement this without overburdening our budget.”
She emphasized that the current focus is on operationalizing Bunyoro, Busoga, and a constituent college of Gulu University in Karamoja, and that other regions will follow in due course.
“Let’s remain optimistic,” she urged. “The presidential pledge still stands, and we are taking strategic steps toward its fulfillment. We ask for patience as we continue this phased approach.”
Moriku’s remarks have been viewed by some as an effort to manage growing expectations and reassure the region amid rising frustrations.
The call for a public university in Mbale has been a recurring one, championed by local leaders, civil society, and education advocates who argue that such an institution is vital to improving access to quality and affordable higher education in Eastern Uganda.
As leaders continue to push for action, hopes remain alive that the long-awaited Mbale University will eventually become a reality—though when remains the question.