By Our Reporter,
KAMPALA
Over 3,000 students and graduates are stranded following the National Council for Higher Education order to close Kyambogo University learning centres over illegalities.
According to NCHE, Kyambogo is illegally operating seven study centres without the council’s approval which contravenes the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act 2001(UOTIA), that grants NCHE the mandate to monitor, evaluate, and regulate higher education institutions.
The affected centres include Soroti Learning Centre, Bushenyi Learning Centre, Paidha Learning Centre, the former Kamurasi Primary Teachers’ College (PTC) in Masindi district, the former Kabwangasi PTC in Butebo district, the former Bukedea PTC in Bukedea district, and the former Canon Lawrence PTC Boroboro in Lira district.
Prof. Mary Okwakol, NCHE Executive Director says the programmes that are being taught at these learning centres have not been accredited by the council something which puts the academic abilities of students at risk.
“Please note that these programmes are accredited premised on infrastructure, facilities and resources, including qualified human resource at the main campus,” Okwakol said.
She noted that universities can only operate study centres and campuses in other parts of the country upon acquiring approval and accreditation of the teaching programmes by NCHE.
Nonetheless, Kyambogo University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Eli Katunguka Rwakishaya said that the programmes which are being taught in these study centres were accredited by NCHE and are administered under the respective schools/faculties and coordinated by the Institute of Distance Education, e-learning and learning centres.
Katunguka noted that the learning centres are part of the university’s approved structure by the ministry of Public Service,” he says.
