By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
KAMPALA
Educationists have called on the government to review the Higher Education Students’ Financing Act, 2014, to allow students in non-chartered private universities access to student loans under the Higher Education Students’ Financing Board (HESFB).
Prof. Rose Clarke Nanyonga, Vice Chancellor of Clarke International University (CIU), Kampala, highlighted that at least 25% of students in both CIU and other universities fail to graduate due to financial constraints. She emphasized that extending the student loan scheme to private, non-chartered universities would enable more students to complete their education.
“We all train Ugandan students, and when they graduate, they contribute to both the government and private sector. Private non-chartered universities should also be considered for the student loan scheme,” Prof. Nanyonga said, urging for a review of the law.
Currently, the law restricts student loans to those admitted to public universities, private chartered universities, or other listed tertiary institutions accredited by the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE).
However, Prof. Nanyonga insists that all accredited universities licensed by NCHE should be included in the program to ensure students from financially struggling families have access to higher education.
She made these remarks during Clarke International University’s 15th graduation ceremony, held on Saturday, March 21, 2025, at Rock Rena, Muyenga, Kampala.
During the event, Prof. Nanyonga announced that CIU is in the final stages of obtaining charter status, with the process now awaiting presidential approval.
“We recently received a letter from NCHE regarding our application for a university charter, and I am pleased to inform you that the charter now awaits approval by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni,” she stated.
Speaking at the ceremony, John Chrysostom Muyingo, Minister of State for Higher Education, who represented Vice President Maj. Gen. Jessica Alupo as the Chief Guest, urged graduates to use their education to develop their rural communities.
“I feel very bad when I find you roaming Kampala Road looking for jobs. If I catch you, I’ll be so annoyed—I might even box you!” he joked, eliciting laughter from the audience.
He encouraged graduates to return to their villages and use their skills to create solutions for local challenges.
“There is so much work to be done in our communities. Go back and use your degrees to transform your rural areas and provide solutions to their needs.”
Government’s Commitment to Higher Education
In her speech, delivered by Minister Muyingo, Vice President Alupo reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving Uganda’s education system, particularly in supporting higher education institutions.
“The NRM government believes that an educated population is key to sustainable development, poverty eradication, and a healthier nation. By investing in education, we empower individuals to contribute meaningfully to society and drive national prosperity,” Alupo stated.
She commended Clarke International University for supporting government programs, particularly in education, and highlighted the critical role of education in unlocking students’ potential by equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the modern world.
“Innovation is the driving force behind development. As graduates, you are entering a rapidly evolving world where technology is reshaping industries. Embracing innovation is not just an option, it is a necessity.”
A total of 456 students graduated from CIU today across various disciplines, out of 532 eligible candidates. The Vice-Chancellor stated that 76 students were unable to graduate due to financial constraints.
