The Ugandan government has taken a step toward building Bunyoro Public University by approving the master plans for the building design and setting aside Shs4 billion for the first phase of construction. These funds, given in the budget year will help start the basic infrastructure work. The Uganda People’s Defence Forces Engineering Brigade will carry out the building work. I feel hopeful that Bunyoro Public University will become a reality.
State Minister for Education and Sports Hon. Peter Ogwang, told Parliament on 26 August 2026 that the government will start with the money available while trying to get more funds. He said, “We plan to start the phase with the resources as we mobilise for additional funds. Government remains committed to the establishment of Bunyoro Public University.”
The first phase focuses on building a multipurpose building and related facilities. Officials say the whole cost of this phase is Shs177.5 billion, which creates a large shortfall. The Ministry of Finance Planning and Economic Development is working to close that gap. A memorandum of understanding with the UPDF Engineering Brigade is being finished so that work can start quickly.
The announcement followed a motion by Hoima City Woman Representative Asinansi Nyakato, who said the university has been overdue for a time. She argued that building Bunyoro Public University is essential for fairness in the region for skill growth and for preparing people for chances in Uganda’s oil and gas sector and wider industrialisation. She added, “Establishment of the university constitutes both a matter of equity skills development and qualification attainment for Uganda’s oil and gas sector development and broader industrialization.”
Bunyoro Public University will serve the Bunyoro sub-region. Will create human talent that fits the growing oil economy. The university will offer science programmes that match the country’s priorities in energy, engineering and similar fields. Earlier steps have included finding land creating programmes approved by the National Council for Higher Education and earlier funding for initial work.
The project is part of the government’s plan to give access to higher education in all areas so that places that help the national economy through oil also get good universities. Officials say that starting construction with the Shs4 billion shows that the government is serious even while it looks for larger funding.
Challenges remain, the big gap in money for the first phase. People who care about the project want budget support and good project management to avoid delays that have happened before. When Bunyoro Public University opens it will enroll students and help build skills so people no longer need to go elsewhere for higher education.
The money allocation moves the plan into building work. With the UPDF Engineering Brigade expected to lead the work should start soon after the final agreements are signed. Residents and education supporters, in Bunyoro will watch closely as the awaited public university finally takes shape on the ground.