JINJA
Jinja City Council has given a green light to Makerere University’s request for land to establish a Jinja Campus, marking a significant step toward expanding higher education opportunities in the region.
In a letter addressed to the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, the City Town Clerk, Lwanga Edward, confirmed that the Council, in its full sitting on October 24, 2024, reviewed and approved the request. The Council acknowledged that the proposed development aligns with Jinja City’s Physical Development Plan of 2040, which envisions a public university in the area.
However, the Council emphasized the need to follow proper government procedures before allocating public land. It resolved to undertake key steps, including:
1. Conducting a physical site visit in Budondo to confirm the land is free of encumbrances.
2. Engaging local stakeholders in Budondo to discuss the establishment of the campus.
3. Convening a Special Council meeting to finalize the matter, given its prolonged handling.
While the Council supports the initiative, it cited financial constraints that may hinder its ability to fund these preparatory activities. As a result, it has requested Makerere University to consider financing these steps, with a proposed budget attached for review.
“However, due to financial constraints, Council may not be in position to finance all the above activities which were not earlier on budgeted for,” read a letter in parts.
“Council therefore requested that if possible the above activities be supported by Makerere University,” Jinja City Clerk, Edward Lwanga added.
A letter seen by Parrots Media reveals that the budget allocates UGX 63,840,000 for Jinja City political leaders, with UGX 31,920,000 designated for the Committee of the Whole Council Meeting and another UGX 31,920,000 for the Special Council Meeting. Meanwhile, the technical team’s budget stands at UGX 36,000,000, covering UGX 18,000,000 for the Committee of the Whole Council Meeting and UGX 18,000,000 for the Special Council Meeting. This brings the total budget to UGX 99,840,000.
The council argued that the establishment of Makerere University Jinja Campus will address the rising demand for higher education in the region, providing a permanent home for students currently studying in Jinja, urging all stakeholders to expedite the process to facilitate this important development.
Makerere University is yet to respond to this proposed funding and subsequent actions toward the realization of the new campus.
