Kyambogo University launches learning center in West Nile

Zombo: Kyambogo University has officially commenced operations at its new learning center in Paidha, Zombo District, sparking excitement and high hopes for the community.

Hundreds of students have already enrolled, and an extensive orientation process was held to ease any doubts about the establishment of the university’s first facility in Greater Nebbi, covering the districts of Zombo, Nebbi, and Pakwach.

The Paidha learning center is located on the 80.9-hectare site of the former Paidha Primary Teachers College, which is now a key part of Kyambogo University’s efforts to provide accessible higher education.

The campus was handed over to the university by Zombo District Local Government and the National Council for Higher Education in March 2024, following the national teacher policy that emphasizes upgrading education standards.

Dr. Joseph Rwothomio, a lecturer and acting head of the Department of Education Planning and Management, expressed his joy and pride over the university’s presence in the region.

Speaking to journalists on January 6, 2025, Rwothomio appealed to parents and stakeholders to send more students to the Paidha learning center, which is designed to serve the local population. He highlighted the long journey it took to establish the center, encouraging the community to embrace the opportunity and utilize the new facility.

As of the orientation day, about 60 students out of the 150 registered had reported, and the administration is optimistic that all students will attend within the next two weeks. The center is also planning to launch a mobilization campaign targeting “A” Level students for full-time programs in the upcoming August intake.

John Manano, the center’s manager, emphasized the importance of no longer feeling left behind and urged the community to seize this educational opportunity. The center primarily serves grade III teachers who are upgrading their qualifications through diploma and bachelor’s degree programs in primary school education.

In the years to come, Kyambogo University plans to introduce additional programs, including Bachelor of Arts with Education, Bachelor of Science with Education, and more specialized degrees such as Special Needs Education.

Margaret Aluka, the center’s registrar, urged local communities to cooperate in ensuring the security of the facility, highlighting its potential to transform the region. She also called on the district security team to be vigilant and ready to assist in case of emergencies.

Zombo District Education Officer, Nickolas Odeba, expressed optimism about the future of education in the district, confident that student enrollment will continue to grow as the center gains momentum.

Students at the center shared their excitement, with Patrick Onencan, a local student, encouraging his peers to prioritize safety and embrace the opportunity. Female student Maryekmungu, enrolled in the Diploma in Primary Education program, expressed her pride in having the learning center in her community, viewing it as a significant milestone for the region.

The Paidha learning center joins other Kyambogo University campuses in Soroti and Bushenyi, making it part of a broader national effort to expand access to higher education across Uganda.

James Oruna Oyullu, Zombo District LCV Chairperson, recently urged the community to support the learning center by encouraging more students to enroll, assuring them of a conducive learning environment.

Former State Minister of Energy, Simon D’janga, also urged the media to publicize the university’s arrival and called for further support from the West Nile region.

Kyambogo University’s entry into the region has been widely welcomed, especially given that it will be the only public university for the Greater Nebbi Subregion, which includes Pakwach, Nebbi, and Zombo districts. The presence of Kyambogo University promises to significantly enhance the educational landscape of the area.

The Paidha Primary Teachers College, which was established in 1982 and phased out in line with the national teacher policy, now serves as the permanent home of Kyambogo University in West Nile.

With the establishment of the Paidha learning center, Kyambogo University has taken a crucial step in providing accessible higher education to the Greater Nebbi Subregion, ensuring that local students can achieve their academic goals closer to home.

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