Bunyoro University gets sh50 million for ICT hub

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KIKUUBE — Bunyoro University Taskforce leaders have a reason to smile after receiving sh50m cheque from Stanbic Bank towards the establishment of an ICT innovation hub in the School of Computing and Information Sciences. 

The dummy cheque was offered under the banker’s Corporate Social Investment, as recently received by Prof. Samuel Kyamanywa, at a function held at the university site in Buhimba town council in Kikuube district. 

Prof. Samuel Kyamanywa, Chairperson of the University Task Force (right), showing the site where Bunyoro University is going to be constructed to Mumba Kalifungwa, Chief Executive of Stanbic Bank (left). (Photo by Peter Abaanabasazi)

Kyamanywa explained that his team has so far developed 18 science-based academic programmes, including a Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Engineering, Earth Sciences, Geomatics and Surveying, Mechanical Engineering, Real Estate, Construction Management, Food Science and Technology, Cooperatives, and Supply Chain Management. Diploma programmes in Construction Management and Real Estate for the university, along with policies and guidelines required before the university can open.

“We have fulfilled other requirements, including acquiring land for the university and getting a master plan for this land developed and approved,” he stated. “The architectural and structural drawings and designs for the first four building blocks are also ready. We are at the stage of procuring contractors.” As the Government mobilises resources for the next stages of the university’s establishment, Kyamanywa said on March 26.

He noted that all preliminary requirements for the construction of the institution have been put in place and that the task force is now awaiting funding to begin work.

He noted that acquisition of land had been one of the key challenges delaying the project until a big offer by Dr Henry Wamani offered land for the campus.

Mumba Kalifungwa Chief Executive of Stanbic Bank (left) planting a tree at the Bunyoro University site as the taskforce and bank officials cheered him. (Photo by Peter Abaanabasazi)

Stanbic Bank’s Chief Executive, Mumba Kalifungwa, said the contribution demonstrates the bank’s commitment to education as a key driver of national development.

“Education is a core pillar in everything we do, accounting for about 70 per cent of our annual Corporate Social Investment budget,” he said. “We believe it is a critical engine for Uganda’s continued development and long-term economic sustainability.

“Bunyoro University represents a bold and transformative vision,” Kalifungwa added. “Its model, where 50 per cent of learning will be practical and community-based, ensures graduates are equipped not just with knowledge, but with the ability to solve real-world challenges.” He added.

“We hope that the innovation hub will serve as a centre for creativity, hands-on learning, and entrepreneurship,” Kalifungwa said. By partnering with the university, he said, they are not only supporting its establishment but also sharing a future of opportunity, innovation, and shared prosperity.

Jacob Karubanga, MP for Kibanda South in Kiryandongo district, and chairperson of Bunyoro Parliamentary Caucus, praised the partnership, which he said sheds light on having the university established in the area.

“I am happy with the progress towards establishing a public university in Bunyoro,” he said.

Godwin Angalia, the Resident District Commissioner for Kikuube District, stated that the collaboration complements the government’s efforts to establish the university.