Busoga University Renamed Iganga University, Sparking Alumni Outcry

The Ministry of Education has officially renamed Busoga University to Iganga University, a move that has drawn mixed reactions from various stakeholders. This rebranding follows the government’s takeover of the institution, which had its license revoked by the National Council for Higher Education due to administrative issues and unaccredited programs.

While some local leaders, like Iganga District Chairperson Mr. Swabiru Isabirye, view the name change as a standard practice for public institutions and a positive step for the region, many former students express deep concern. They worry that the new name will obscure their academic credentials and complicate verification processes.

Pastor Paul Batambuze, an alumnus, stated his intention to continue identifying as a graduate of Busoga University, asserting that it is the institution that awarded his degree. He criticized the lack of consultation with former students and parents before the decision was made. “They never consulted. If they did, there would be no alumni or parents who would have accepted it,” he remarked.

Another former student, Mr. Johnson Muwanguzi, echoed these anxieties, suggesting that the name change could make their qualifications seem unfamiliar in the future. Some graduates are even considering legal action against the Ministry of Education, arguing that the renaming undermines the original presidential directive for a state takeover and effectively “academically buries” the history of those who studied there.

However, former members of the Busoga University Transition Committee, such as Mr. Patrick Kayemba, acknowledge that a name change is justifiable given the government’s assumption of liabilities and land titles. He reassured former students that their existing qualifications and transcripts remain valid, though he noted that the statutory instrument formalizing the transition may still be debated in Parliament.

Busoga University, established in 1999 by the Church of Uganda, previously had an enrollment of over 5,000 students before its operational license was revoked. The institution is currently finalizing its legal and accreditation frameworks before its official reopening as Iganga University.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)