New Busitema University council outlines ambitious plans

27 August 2024, 12:09 pm

By Byamukama Alozious

Busitema University, based in Busia with seven campuses, has commenced its fifth council term this month. The new council, set to serve for four years, was unveiled during a press briefing at Makerere Guest House in Kampala, with Prof. William Bazeyo replacing Rosemary Mutyabule as chairperson.

Prof. Bazeyo, in his address, emphasised the council’s commitment to mobilising both local and international research resources to support the university’s growth. “Our focus will be on securing resources to enhance research at our campuses. While we face challenges such as outdated infrastructure, especially in classroom blocks that predate the university’s establishment, we are determined to find solutions,” he said.

Busitema University, which currently has 10,000 students, 30 associate professors, 120 PhD lecturers, and a total of 500 staff, has been recognised as the sixth fastest-growing university in the region. However, this rapid growth has brought challenges, such as a low student-teacher ratio and limited internet coverage, particularly at the Nagongera and Namasagali campuses.

University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Paul Waako acknowledged these challenges and assured the press of ongoing efforts to address them. “We are working tirelessly to resolve these issues, including engaging NITA Uganda to provide stable internet to our campuses,” he said.

He also highlighted their readiness to collaborate with Prof. Bazeyo and his team to ensure the smooth running of the university and stated that they will support him whenever needed.

Under the leadership of the previous council, chaired by Rosemary Mutyabule, the university secured 11 billion UGX in research grants, driving innovation and development across various faculties and numerous policies.

Furthermore, Prof. Bazeyo told the media that his team aims to build on this success by training the university’s 500 staff members in writing fundable project proposals. “There are calls for funding everywhere, and we must secure these resources, but it requires training,” he emphasised. He also highlighted the importance of partnering with other universities and multinational business firms to lobby for support.

Prof. Bazeyo also thanked the Minister of Education and Sports, who is also Uganda’s First Lady, Mama Janet Kataha Museveni, for entrusting him with the responsibility. “Given my extensive experience, I am honoured to lead this council,” he remarked.