education 9 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Busitema University Tackles Discipline and Infrastructure Strain Amidst Rising Enrollment
Busitema University is prioritizing student discipline and preparing for increased infrastructure demands as enrollment numbers climb, including a rise in international students. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/busitema-cites-discipline-infrastructure-challenges-as-enrolment-rises-5552258
Busitema University is implementing a robust orientation program to instill discipline in its growing student body, which now includes a significant number of international students from across Africa. The five-day orientation aims to familiarize new students with academic regulations, digital systems, and library resources, preparing them for a successful university experience.
First Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof. Saphina Biira, highlighted the program’s success in fostering discipline and equipping students with essential skills, contributing to the university’s reputation. “We are grateful because this program has helped us improve discipline and equip our students with the skills and knowledge they need to excel among universities in the country and worldwide,” Prof. Biira stated.
With approximately 7,500 students expected to enroll across its main and satellite campuses, the university acknowledges the potential strain on infrastructure, staffing, and accommodation. “However, as university leaders, we are ready to manage these challenges and ensure that all students are adequately catered for. I want to assure parents and students to remain confident,” Prof. Biira added.
Wallen Oundo Karerera from the Academic Registrar’s office emphasized that discipline is crucial for students to develop into responsible professionals. The university’s commitment to high standards has led to an annual increase in student enrollment, with a notable rise in international students from Kenya, Tanzania, South Sudan, and South Africa.
In parallel, Busitema University is expanding access to higher education through partnerships like the Higher Education Access Certificate (HEAC) program with the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE-Uganda) and the Mastercard Foundation, which supports economically disadvantaged but academically capable students. Further collaborations with institutions such as Tsinghua University and CARE Uganda are strengthening research, public health initiatives, and academic exchange, marking significant achievements for the university since its establishment in 2007.