Bushenyi icon opens science and technology university
Mr William Mukaira, the proprietor of Valley University of Science and Technology (R), takes journalists through a tour of the institution in Bushenyi Town on Monday. PHOTO BY ZADOCK AMANYISA
BUSHENYI. A new university, Valley University of Science and Technology (VUST), has started in Bushenyi District.
The university is owned by Mr William Mukaira, a renowned businessman and a retired teacher.
Addressing journalists at the university campus in Bushenyi Town on Monday, Mr Mukaira said starting the institution was based on conviction that science-based knowledge is a key factor for any community to develop.
“Societies that embrace science-based studies and skills will be torch bearers of change and development,” he said. Mr Mukaira, 87, said he wants to build a leading rural-based university, which provides practical knowledge and skills.
The retired teacher, who is also a former FDC chairman for Bushenyi, the proprietor of Valley College Secondary School, Valley Inn and Valley Wines, said he has always dreamt of transforming his home area.
Opening time
Valley University of Science and Technology will officially open in February with 105 scholarships to benefit poor students from across the country that have good marks and have a dream of attaining university education. Ms Esther Gimaddu, the academic registrar, told journalists that the scholarships will cover 40 per cent of the tuition fees.
“Changing the face of Bushenyi has been my dream ever since I started working. What changes an area is the economic base. The economy has to grow with institutions like universities. I have found it necessary to provide a service to the people of God and emphasise service above self as recorded in many books,” Mr Mukaira told journalists.
The university will first provide a service and make profits later.
VUST was in October 2015 accredited by National Council for Higher Education to start with two faculties: Science, Technology and Innovations and Business and Management Sciences.
The chancellor is businessman and lawyer James Musinguzi Garuga.
