After constructive talks, Makerere University has officially been approved to establish its branch in Jinja City. 52.6 acres of land was provided by Jinja city local government for Makerere to expand services to the Busoga sub-region.
During a meeting between Makerere University authorities and Jinja City leaders, technocrats and stakeholders at the University’s main campus, Kampala on Thursday, May 2, 2024, Councillors were impressed by the significant projects Makerere envisions to carry out in Jinja.
The public higher institution of learning is now in the process of resource mobilisation from the government to construct a branch at the land housing Budondo subcounty headquarters in the northern division of Jinja city. The multi-billion government projects, according to reports, shall consist of administration blocks, hostels, lecture rooms, swimming pools, and elevate Budondo health IV to a full hospital.
The delegation led by the city Mayor, Peter Okocha Kasolo, City Clerk, Edward Lwanga, RCC Darius Nandinda, division mayors and Councillors was positive with the initiative after a longtime struggle with some leaders undermining the project.
Makerere University Jinja branch, since its establishment in 2009, has been renting at the premises of Uganda National Water along Bell Avenue. Running seven courses, the university accommodates over 75 students, which now seeks a permanent residence to effectively execute duties.
Mr Rajjab Kito, the Jinja City Public Relations Officer (PRO), said they are now okay with the project that aims to benefit the Busoga community. The branch shall minimise the journeys moved by Busoga students to access studies at the main campus in Kampala.
“We met Makerer University authorities and we agreed that the university establish its branch on Budondo land. It is really a big project that shall benefit the local community,” said Mr Kitto.
While Dr Frank Nabwiso, the former Kagoma legislator and ex-chancellor for Busoga university says the project is exceptional and can never be antagonised. He explained the importance of the university in the community as it brings about regional development.
“We are here either to gain or lose. I want to coucel out lose. We are likely to get good fruits out of this initiative because it is really good,” stated Dr Nabwiso.
Representing Makerere University, Professor Henry Alinaitwe said; “Jinja is an important city in Africa and we are being given a chance to use the source of the Nile as we continue with our journey to educate professionals across the globe.”
