Kyambogo University seeks sh15b to build student’s centre

KAMPALA - Kyambogo University is seeking approximately sh15.2b from alumni and the institution's top management to construct a student’s centre to serve as a hub for learning, networking and talent development.

“The centre will be a magnificent structure that will give a home to students, those in the university and those who will come after them,” said Vice-Chancellor Prof. Eli Katunguka.

He said financial contributions by alumni to their alma mater make a big difference.

“For instance, I finished my PhD in 1991 in Glasgow, and up to now, they [university] write to me to make a contribution. Every year, I contribute 10 pounds.

“Since Kyambogo has graduated many students, I believe many are willing to make a significant contribution to the development of the university. When you are many, you can make small contributions and still achieve your goal," said the 70-year-old vice-chancellor.

He made the call during a fundraising alumni dinner and project launch organized by the public university at Hotel Africana on Friday.

Themed “Stronger Together: Empowering students, strengthening Community", the event set the stage for the fundraiser.

The desired project is seen as a much-needed space for student engagement, support services and extracurricular activities.

The fundraising dinner saw alumni — including those from the 1980s cohorts — make pledges of over sh135 million towards the project, which is expected to begin in two months' time.

It is a joint initiative between Kyambogo University and its alumni.

Alumni looking at the artistic impression of the proposed students' center during the alumni fundraising dinner at Hotel Africana. (Credit: Juliet Kasirye)

On his part, Katunguka pledged sh5 million.

He commended the alumni for remembering the university, saying their dedication to giving back and supporting the next generation of students is truly inspiring.

“I have been fortunate. I have travelled to many universities and found student centres where students spend most of their free time networking with their colleagues, doing their independent research, writing their projects and buying things from the centre. That keeps them together,” said the VC.

'Beacon of excellence'

Bridget Mugume, who is the Dean of Students at Kyambogo, said the student centre not only represents a physical space, but it is also a symbol of growth, opportunity and community recreation and wellbeing.

“The centre will be a place where students gather to share ideas, develop talents and seek support as they navigate their academic life," she said.

"To our esteemed alumni, your generosity and commitment to this project reminds us that education is not just about individual success, but about lifting others as we rise."
Mugume further paid tribute to the efforts of the alumni.

“You have set a great example of leadership and service, and we hope that current students will follow in your footsteps, ensuring that Kyambogo University continues to be a beacon of excellence. 

"To the students, let the centre be a place of inspiration, collaboration and personal growth.”

A cross section of alumni during the alumni fundraising dinner at Hotel Africana. (Credit: Juliet Kasirye)

Centenary Bank contributed sh3 million towards the project.

"It is our commitment to empowering the youth and ensuring that institutions of higher learning continue to provide a conducive environment for our student’s success,” said Hadijah Kaggwa Nakiyemba, the bank's financial inclusion supervisor.

Natural lighting

Eng. Ambrose Aryeija from the university's Estates Department provided details about the project.

He said the facility will have a lower ground floor measuring 2,045 square km, and upper ground floor/first floor, second floor and third floor, each measuring 3,493 square km. 

The total square kilometres for the entire centre will be 12,523.

“We want this structure to utilize natural light," said Aryeija.

"It will be made of glasses all around. The roof will be of solar panels so that we try to minimize the usage of hydro power. 

"With available funding, we believe this centre will be finished within four years," he added.