Uganda opens first university in mineral-rich Karamoja region
Karamoja has the least educated children with 76% unable to read or write, also the poorest part of Uganda with 82% living in poverty
The first-ever university, Karamoja Peace and Technology University (KAPATU) has been inaugurated in the Karamoja sub-region of Uganda.
The event held at Losilang, Kotido, was attended by top government dignitaries, including Minister for Karamoja Peter Lokeris, Minister of State for Gender, Labour, and Social Development Esther Anyakun, and Minister of State for Ethics and Integrity Rose Lilly Akello, among others.
Kotido District Chairperson Lote Paul said that the university reflects a strong commitment toward uplifting Karamoja’s future and acknowledged the support of the Ethiopian government and other international stakeholders who collaborated on the project.
“Karamoja has suffered greatly, but this university is a beacon of hope. Education and transformation go hand in hand, and we are grateful for this vision,” Lote said.
“Above all, it reflects our national aspiration to ensure that no community is left behind. This university isn’t merely an institution of learning but an engine for regional transformation and a beacon of peace,” he added.
Significant milestone
The President of KAPATU, also the Bishop of Kotido Catholic Diocese, Dominic Eibu said that the development marks a significant milestone in promoting higher education and sustainable peace in Karamoja.
He noted that there hasn’t been any existing university in the entire sub-region, and many local poor students couldn’t afford to go outside the region for further education.
The university deputy vice chancellor in charge of academic affairs, Annette Kezaabu, said that the university will not only increase higher education access but also present a unique opportunity for the students to engage in important research areas that trigger innovative solutions for area challenges.
Many residents who spoke to TRT Afrika, however, appealed that the university set up a centre for sustainable mineral resources development in the region owing to its endowment of rich earth minerals.