NCHE Visits KAPATU Project Main Campus to Assess Readiness for Starting Academic Programs

The establishment of KAPATU comes at a time when the Karamoja and Ateker region—despite their immense mineral wealth, potential for animal husbandry, and distinct cultural heritage—continue to face deep-rooted challenges, including pockets of cattle rustling, food insecurity, and limited access to social services. For decades, these issues have hindered the region’s socio-economic progress and left many communities marginalized. However, according to Mr. Charles Ichogor, the RDC Kotido, Karamoja is now generally peaceful and KAPATU has come at the right time.

The proposed university’s President, also the Bishop of Kotido Catholic Diocese Rt. Rev. Dominic Eibu MCCJ, said KAPATU is designed to be a hub of transformation.
“It aims to equip learners with 21st-century skills rooted in peace education, science and technology, human rights, and community resilience. KAPATU’s curriculum is structured not only to produce employable graduates, but also to rehabilitate, empower, and reintegrate communities affected by violence and cattle rustling,” Bishop Eibu said.

He commended the First Lady and Minister for Education and Sports Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni and His Excellency the President for their support to the Project, with his voice being re-echoed by the Vice Chancellor-designate, Rev. Fr. Prof. Callisto Locheng.

“President Museveni sent his own wife to come here and work. Who gives you his wife to come and work for you? It is someone who cares for you. So, the President’s efforts have not been in vain. The unearthing of the pen has not been in vain. The university is greatly on the right direction,” Prof. Locheng said, and commended all those who have contributed to KAPATU’s establishment to reach where it is now.

Hon. Loki Peter Abrahams, Member of Parliament for Jie Constituency, expressed optimism that the university would address both historical and emerging challenges in the region. He emphasized that KAPATU will serve as a unifying force that promotes peace and accelerates development.

“We will get formal and informal skills. By providing skills, KAPATU will enhance the consumption of services of the government like the Parish Development Model,” Hon. Lokii stated and pledged the full support of  Karamoja legislators towards KAPATU’s success.

Hon. Lokii John Baptist, the NRM vice chairperson for Karamoja and MP Matheniko county, described the unveiling as historic because, as a region, Karamoja had never had a university, be it public or private. He said the coming of KAPATU will also reduce on distance children from Karamoja have been traveling in their quest for higher education in Central Uganda.

“Education is the foundation of progress. I appeal to the government to ensure full compulsory free primary and secondary education for Karamoja so that every child in here can have a strong start. Karamoja needs special consideration” He said.

In a notable gesture of reconciliation, Hon. Lokii reported that President Museveni, in a recent meeting with leaders from Karamoja in Soroti, expressed willingness to forgive and pardon the karachunas (youths) who were arrested over their involvement in cattle rustling and insecurity. This, he said, is an opportunity for them to rebuild their lives through education and constructive participation in community development.

“We are not here to condemn but to rebuild. Those willing to reform and embrace peace will be supported. KAPATU is a home for transformation.” He said, explaining that the President had indicated that he would begin by pardoning 900 Karacunas.

His remarks were met with applause from residents who hope that KAPATU will help break cycles of illiteracy and insecurity that have plagued the region for generations.

Kotido District Chairperson, Lote Paul, also commended President Museveni for championing the initiative, adding that the university reflects a strong commitment toward uplifting Karamoja’s future. He acknowledged the critical 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,” Lote said. “It will significantly help in the fight against cattle rustling and open new opportunities for the people. Education and transformation go hand in hand, and we are grateful for this vision.”

The KAPATU Project takes a holistic approach that blends formal education with peace-building, health, human rights, psychosocial support, and modern science and technology. It aims to empower youth, women, former warriors, and vulnerable households to become self-reliant contributors to regional growth.

Experts believe that integrating technical skills and peace education will address long-standing causes of conflict, including unemployment, cultural misunderstandings, and a lack of economic alternatives. With Karamoja’s vast mineral deposits and livestock potential, the university is also expected to produce professionals capable of responsibly managing the region’s natural resources.

Meanwhile, Rev. Dr Mugisha Kagume, the Deputy Executive Director of the National Council for Higher Education, informed the function that the Council has already received a formal request by KAPATU for a Provisional License to start teaching. He said already, NCHE granted the KAPATU Project a Letter of Interim Authority in 2024 to embark on infrastructure development, human resource mobilisation and other necessary aspects. He explained that the Council is considering the request for a Provisional License.