By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
KAMPALA
The Government of Uganda has officially granted a charter to Clarke International University (CIU), elevating the institution to full university status after years of waiting.
The confirmation was made in a statement issued by Prof. Mary J. N. Okwakol, the Executive Director of the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE), who said the decision followed the university’s application and subsequent approval by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
“I want to inform you that following your application for the grant of a charter, His Excellency the President of the Republic of Uganda has approved and granted Clarke International University a charter,” the statement read.
The charter is a certification that allows a university to offer all levels of degrees including doctoral degrees (PhDs), and ranks the institution in the same category of public universities. With this award, CIU has greater autonomy in academic, administrative, and financial affairs. It also enables the university to expand its academic offerings, conduct independent research, and benefit from government-supported programs.
CIU Vice Chancellor, Dr. Rose Clarke Nanyonga, lauded the development as a game changer for the institution, saying the university is now better positioned to contribute meaningfully to national development and community transformation.
“This repositions us not just as a quality university, but as one adding value to the country and community,” she said while addressing journalists in Kampala. “We look forward to expanding our programs, impact, and partnerships across the nation.”
Dr. Nanyonga emphasized that the charter should not be seen as an end but as a new chapter in CIU’s growth. She urged stakeholders to work collectively to ensure sustainable academic excellence.
“This endorsement is a collective recognition,” she said. “It requires everyone at CIU to embrace a culture of continuous quality improvement. We are not just ticking boxes, this must be a sustainable journey.”
CIU founder and proprietor, Dr. Ian Clarke, said the charter opens new doors for the university to participate in government initiatives such as the Higher Education Students Financing Board (HESFB) loan scheme.
“There are more avenues for student sponsorships now,” he noted. “The government loan scheme, which is available only to chartered universities, is now accessible to our students. The charter also allows us to expand into research and doctoral-level training.”
He added that CIU would be exploring new academic frontiers beyond its traditional health sciences focus, including agriculture and human capital development.
“We aim to contribute to the transformation of Uganda’s agriculture sector, especially through training programs for farm managers and smallholder farmers,” he said.
Dr. Sean Clarke, CEO of Clarke Education Group, said the university’s charter status is a testament to the quality and impact of its graduates across the region.
“For years, we’ve been producing agents of change and transformation in Uganda and beyond,” he said. “This charter is a seal of approval confirming what we already know that CIU is a university of excellent quality, equipping students with practical, innovative, and leadership skills.”
Students who spoke to Parrots Media welcomed the news, saying it ensures the credibility of their academic qualifications and secures their future.
“This gives us confidence that our degrees are now fully recognized and our courses are protected,” said Robert Okello, CIU Guild President.
Clarke International University, established in 2008 as the International Health Sciences University, has grown into a reputable institution offering programs in health sciences, business, technology, and leadership. With the charter now in place, it is expected to expand its academic reach and influence even further.
