Kyambogo University Opens West Nile Learning Center, Calls for More Enrollments

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Kyambogo University has officially commenced operations at its new learning centre in Paidha, Zombo District, marking a historic milestone as the first public university facility in Greater Nebbi.

The centre, which opened with an extensive orientation programme on January 6, 2025, has inspired hope among students, stakeholders, and the local community.

A Long-Awaited Milestone

The learning centre is situated on an 80.9-hectare site previously occupied by Paidha Primary Teachers College in Dwonga Ward, Paidha Town Council.

Its establishment follows the 2019 National Teacher Policy, which phased out traditional primary teacher colleges to elevate the minimum teaching qualification to a bachelor’s degree.

The handover of the facility on March 25, 2024, by Zombo District Local Government and the National Council for Higher Education was attended by political, religious, and cultural leaders, alongside hundreds of community members.

Academic Offerings and Vision

Currently, the Paidha Centre offers programmes including:

  • Diploma in Primary Education (for Grade III teacher upgrades)
  • Bachelor of Education (for diploma holders)

Plans include programmes such as:

  • Bachelor of Arts with Education
  • Bachelor of Science with Education
  • Bachelor of Social Sciences
  • Bachelor of Business Studies
  • Specialized courses in special needs education

Calls for Community Support

Dr Joseph Rwothomio, a lecturer and acting head of the Department of Education Planning and Management at Kyambogo University, serves as the focal point for the Paidha Learning Centre.

Speaking during the orientation, he urged parents and stakeholders to enrol more students.

“We’ve walked a long journey to make this dream a reality. This centre is an opportunity for the region, and we must embrace it wholeheartedly,” Rwothomio said.

As of January 6, 60 out of 150 registered students had reported, with more expected in the coming weeks. The centre also plans to intensify mobilisation efforts for A-level students ahead of the August intake.

Local Support and Security Concerns

Margaret Aluka, the centre’s registrar, appealed for community cooperation to ensure security and prevent vandalism. She also requested support from the district security team for emergencies.

District Education Officer Nicholas Odeba expressed optimism about enrolment growth, emphasising the centre’s potential to transform education in the region.

Stakeholder Reactions

Patrick Onencan, a student and LCI chairperson, highlighted the community’s preparations for the centre’s launch. He urged students to prioritise their safety.

Consulate Maryekmungu, a diploma student, expressed excitement: “This programme is a blessing for us, as it’s right here in our region.”

The Zombo District LCV Chairperson, James Oruna Oyullu, called on the public to rally more students to join the centre, assuring a conducive learning environment.

Former State Minister for Energy Simon D’Janga urged the media to provide positive publicity and support for the university’s growth.

Historical Context

Paidha Primary Teachers College, established in 1982, was originally a Church of Uganda initiative before moving to its current site in 1989.

Its transition to a university learning centre has been welcomed by local leaders, including Professor Elly Katunguka, Kyambogo University’s vice chancellor.

Greater Nebbi Subregion, which comprises Zombo, Nebbi, and Pakwach Districts, now boasts Kyambogo University Learning Centre Paidha as its first public university, complementing Ora Technical Institute in Warr and Uganda College of Commerce in Pakwach.

The centre’s establishment is widely seen as a transformative step for education in West Nile, offering accessible higher education opportunities to communities in the region.

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