Parliament has approved the allocation of Shs30 billion to the Ministry of Education and Sports Uganda for the establishment of Karamoja Peace and Technology University, fulfilling a pledge made by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
The approval followed the presentation of a report on the 2026/27 National Budget Framework Paper by Remigio Achia, Vice Chairperson of Parliament’s Budget Committee.
Achia told the House that although the presidential pledge provided for Shs30 billion as start-up funding for construction in the 2025/26 financial year, only Shs10 billion had been allocated, leaving a shortfall of Shs20 billion.
“The presidential pledge was to a tune of Shs30 billion as start-up funds towards the construction of the university in FY 2025/2026, but only Shs10 billion was provided,” Achia said.
The Karamoja Peace and Technology University project is aimed at promoting peace, advancing technology and accelerating socio-economic development in the Karamoja sub-region.
Government officials say the institution is expected to help address long-standing challenges in the region, including cattle rustling, food insecurity and youth unemployment, by equipping learners with practical and technical skills.
The government had previously allocated Shs180 billion for the project in the 2025/26 national budget as part of broader efforts to expand access to higher education and foster stability in Karamoja.
Lawmakers expressed optimism that the full release of the pledged funds will accelerate construction works and bring the project closer to operationalisation.
