By Frank Kamuntu
On Tuesday, 12th November 2024, a team from the Uganda Vice Chancellors Forum (UVCF), led by Executive Director Prof. Eriabu Lugujjo, met with the Rt. Hon. Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa to discuss key matters related to the future and development of higher education in Uganda, a sector that is crucial to the nation’s growth and advancement.
Victoria University Vice Chancellor, Prof Lawrence Muganga, an advocate for meaningful and impactful education, attended the same meeting and commended Tayebwa for his unwavering support and dedication to the cause of higher education in Uganda.
Muganga said Tayebwa’s consistent engagement with academic leaders and his open-door policy have made him a key ally in the ongoing efforts to reform and improve the education system in Uganda. ”We are grateful for the valuable time he regularly dedicates to educational discussions and for the dependable guidance he provides, particularly when it comes to navigating the complex challenges facing our institutions of higher learning.”
Further, Muganga said Tayebwa’s deep insights and experience in the field of education have been invaluable to the work they do as university leaders. ”His understanding of the educational landscape and the critical role that universities play in national development is something that we, as academics, do not take for granted. His continued support makes a tangible difference in shaping policies that benefit both institutions and students.”
He added, ”I also want to extend my sincere thanks to my dear colleague and friend, Prof. Mouhamad Mpeza, Vice Chancellor of Equator University (Equsat), for his tireless advocacy for quality education. Prof. Mpeza’s passion for meaningful education is evident in every initiative he champions. His commitment to ensuring that higher education remains accessible, relevant, and of the highest standard is truly commendable, and his contributions to the UVCF are invaluable.”
”Lastly, I wish to thank Prof. Eriabu Lugujjo for his relentless efforts in improving the delivery and value of higher education in Uganda. As the Executive Director of the UVCF, Prof. Lugujjo has been at the forefront of driving meaningful reforms within the higher education sector. His leadership and vision continue to inspire progress, fostering a collaborative approach among universities, policymakers, and other key stakeholders to build a stronger education system for Uganda’s future.”
Muganga says this meeting is yet another reminder of the importance of collaboration between educational leaders and government officials to ensure that the country’s higher education system meets the demands of the modern world.