Muni University, Arua City has opened a new chapter in healthcare and higher education in Uganda’s West Nile region, breaking ground for its much-anticipated World Class Teaching and Research Hospital, a landmark project expected to transform medical education, specialised healthcare, research and innovation across the region and beyond.

The historic ceremony at Muni University’s Main Campus on Friday, 21 August 2026, brought together senior Government officials, university leaders, Members of Parliament, local government authorities, cultural leaders, academics, technical experts and members of the community, with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni represented by Vice President Jessica Alupo as Chief Guest.

For Muni University, the occasion represented far more than the beginning of a construction project. It marked the realisation of a long-held institutional ambition to establish a major academic health facility where students can acquire practical clinical experience, researchers can develop solutions to pressing health challenges and communities can access increasingly specialised medical services closer to home.

The project is also expected to strengthen Muni University’s growing identity as a centre of excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Health Sciences, while reinforcing Arua City’s emerging position as a strategic regional hub for education, healthcare, research, trade and investment.

Muni University has described the hospital as one of the most significant developments in its history. The university had earlier announced that Government had committed substantial funding towards the project and that construction would be undertaken by Roko Construction Company Limited, with the facility expected to combine healthcare delivery, medical training, research and innovation.

In a speech delivered by Vice President Jessica Alupo, President Museveni congratulated the Muni University community upon reaching the historic milestone and described the Teaching and Research Hospital as an important component of the university’s continuing expansion.

The President said the proposed facility would bring together four critical functions: health service provision, training, research and innovation, making it much more than a hospital but conventional healthcare facility.

He placed the project within the broader history of Uganda’s higher education transformation, noting that Government’s decision to establish regional public universities was intended to expand access to higher education and respond to the development needs of different parts of the country. Muni University, he said, emerged from this vision as an institution established to contribute to the socio-economic transformation of West Nile and Uganda as a whole.

President Museveni commended Muni University for the progress it has made since its establishment, particularly the growth in student enrolment, expansion of academic programmes, increased emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, research output and community engagement.

He specifically recognised the University’s Refugee and Host Community Youth Empowerment Initiative, while also congratulating Muni University for being among the five African universities to receive the inaugural Laureate of Africa Higher Education for Transformation Prize.

The President said the Teaching and Research Hospital represents another major step in Muni University’s expansion and will bring healthcare services closer to the people while creating a stronger environment for training health professionals, conducting research and developing innovations.

He further commended the university for developing an ambitious architectural plan and broadening the range of services that will be available to the people.

Importantly, President Museveni reiterated Government’s commitment to financing the construction and provision of equipment for the Teaching and Research Hospital, emphasising its potential to reduce the economic burden associated with medical tourism, as Ugandans currently travel abroad in search of specialised treatment.

The President also encouraged parents, particularly those from West Nile, to send their children to Muni University and urged young people to consider science and technology-related programmes that can strengthen their employability and contribution to the private sector.

His message placed the hospital within a much wider national agenda: expanding access to quality healthcare, producing a stronger health workforce, retaining resources within Uganda and using higher education as an engine of socio-economic transformation.

Muni University Vice Chancellor, Associate Professor Simon Anguma Katrini, described the groundbreaking as one of the most important moments in the institution’s history and expressed appreciation to President Museveni for his continued support towards Muni University.

“Today marks a defining moment in the history and transformation of Muni University. We are grateful to His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for the support and commitment that have enabled this university to grow from its formative years into an institution serving the people of West Nile and beyond,” Professor Anguma said.

He thanked the President for being represented by Vice President Alupo and commended her for what he described as her continued support towards the development of Muni University.

“We are equally grateful to Her Excellency the Vice President, Jessica Alupo, for representing the President and for her continued support towards the development of Muni University,” he added.

Professor Anguma particularly highlighted the significance of the planned Teaching and Research Hospital alongside the proposed development of facilities associated with the Uganda Cancer Institute and Uganda Heart Institute on the university campus.

He said these developments have the potential to transform Muni University into an integrated ecosystem bringing together specialized healthcare, medical education, research, innovation and professional services.

“The Teaching and Research Hospital, together with the proposed developments associated with the Uganda Cancer Institute and Uganda Heart Institute, will create an integrated environment where healthcare, medical education, research and innovation can grow together,” he said.

The Vice Chancellor also used the occasion to demonstrate how far Muni University has travelled since its establishment. From its early beginnings, the university has expanded to six faculties, 34 academic programmes and approximately 310 staff, with plans for further growth.

Professor Anguma said Muni University’s growth trajectory would continue, with ambitions to expand enrolment to approximately 7,600 students within the next five years and increase the number of academic programmes significantly in the coming years.

He assured the gathering that the Teaching and Research Hospital would become a critical pillar in advancing medical education and healthcare delivery, enabling Muni University to deepen its contribution to Uganda’s health sector.

The Chairman of Muni University Council, Eng. Joel Aita, delivered a powerful message at the historic groundbreaking ceremony, describing the Teaching and Research Hospital as more than a construction project, but a promise of better healthcare, stronger medical education and greater opportunities for the people of West Nile.

He told the gathering that the groundbreaking was laying the foundation for a future in which a child born in West Nile could grow up with access to a standard of medical care comparable to that available in Kampala, Nairobi and other leading cities around the world.

Eng. Aita emphasised that the Muni University Teaching and Research Hospital should not be viewed as an ordinary hospital, but as an integrated academic health system linking healthcare delivery directly with medical education, research and innovation.

“The Muni University Teaching and Research Hospital is conceived as an integrated academic health system, a 200-bed tertiary and quaternary referral hospital, physically and academically fused with the Muni University Medical School.”

The Council Chairman further outlined the broader ambition behind the project, saying the hospital is intended to promote health, prevent disease, cure illness, rehabilitate patients and strengthen accurate diagnosis.

He said the hospital’s impact would extend beyond Arua City because of West Nile’s geographical position and its links with South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo and the wider region.

Eng. Aita said Muni University’s ambition is to develop a facility capable of meeting international standards and producing health professionals who can confidently work in leading medical institutions anywhere in the world.

Eng. Aita also highlighted the potential of the hospital to reduce the number of Ugandans travelling abroad in search of specialized medical treatment, thereby helping retain financial resources within the country.

The Chancellor of Muni University, The Most Rev. Henry Luke Orombi, Retired Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, has called on the university management, project team, consultants and contractors to deliver the Teaching and Research Hospital to the highest professional standards, saying the facility must become a centre of excellence whose quality is demonstrated, independently verified and trusted by every patient who walks through its doors.

In a strong message at the historic groundbreaking ceremony, the Chancellor said the construction of the hospital should be approached with the highest sense of responsibility because the lives and wellbeing of future patients would ultimately depend on the quality of

He thanked President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, represented at the ceremony by Vice President Jessica Alupo, together with the Government of Uganda, Parliament, development partners, political and community leaders, and the people of West Nile for supporting the realisation of the project.

The Member of Parliament for Ayivu East in Arua City, Hon. Tiyo William, said local communities have an important role to play in ensuring that Muni University continues to fulfil its mandate.

He said the people of West Nile should increasingly appreciate the relevance of Muni University because of its contribution to practical education and skills development.

He emphasised that the Teaching and Research Hospital would strengthen this mission by creating a stronger environment where health sciences students can connect classroom learning with practical clinical experience.

Representing the Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Dr J.C. Muyingo, congratulated Muni University for reaching the groundbreaking milestone and described the Teaching and Research Hospital as a major centre for healthcare service delivery, research and professional training.

He said the project had generated significant hope among communities and leaders in West Nile and reminded the university that Government would expect the institution to maintain competent curricula and high academic standards.

According to Muni University Head of Estates, Engineer Willy Ocen, the Teaching and Research Hospital is planned as a multi-phase development with modern facilities, equipment and supporting infrastructure.

He told guests that the project would be implemented in phases, with the first phase estimated at approximately UGX 182.5 billion according to the project presentation made during the ceremony.

He said Roko Construction Company Limited would undertake the construction, with the implementation period expected to run for approximately 30 months.

Engineer Ocen said the project land is available and free from encumbrances and that the hospital will be fully funded by the Government of Uganda.

Over 2,815 newly admitted students for the academic year 2026/2027 were successfully oriented and officially admitted by the Vice Chancellor of Muni University Prof.Anguma Simon Katrini on Friday 7th August 2026 marking another significant milestone in the remarkable growth of the only public university in Uganda's West Nile sub-region.

The latest cohort comprises 321 Higher Education Certificate students, 2,056 undergraduate students and 438 graduate students, admitted across the University's six faculties: Education, Science, Management Sciences, Public Health, Agriculture and Environment, and Technoscience.

Coordinated by the Office of the Academic Registrar together with the Office of the Dean of Students, with guidance from the University Legal Officer, the admission and orientation programme brought together University leaders, academic staff, administrative departments and student support units to prepare freshers for a successful transition into university life.

Welcoming the new students into the Muni University family, Vice Chancellor Associate Professor Simon Anguma Katrini congratulated the freshers on earning their place at the University and urged them to pursue excellence with discipline, integrity and purpose.

He encouraged students to seek guidance whenever they encounter challenges and reminded them that the University's leadership, lecturers, counsellors, Guild leadership and support staff remain committed to helping every student succeed academically and personally.

He challenged the new entrants to work hard, earn quality degrees and aspire to become researchers, innovators, professionals and national leaders who will contribute meaningfully to Uganda's development.

The Dean of Students, Madam Stella Amandra, said the orientation programme provided freshers with valuable guidance on adapting to university life, building positive character and pursuing academic excellence.

Addressing the new students, Madam Stella encouraged them to embrace self-respect, effective time management, respect for lecturers and fellow students, and active participation in university programmes.

She emphasised that discipline, responsibility and a positive mindset are essential foundations for becoming well-rounded graduates and future leaders.

Beyond the admission ceremony, the Freshers' Orientation Programme introduced students to the academic, personal and support systems that will guide them throughout their university journey.

According to the Dean of Students, Madam Stella Amandra, the large number of admitted students required the orientation to be conducted in phases to ensure that every fresher received adequate attention and support.

Madam Stella said the programme provided freshers with valuable guidance on adapting to university life, building positive character and pursuing academic excellence. Addressing the new students, she encouraged them to embrace self-respect, effective time management, respect for lecturers and fellow students, and active participation in university programmes.

She emphasized that discipline, responsibility and a positive mindset are essential foundations for becoming well-rounded graduates and future leaders.

Facilitated by the Office of the Academic Registrar in collaboration with the ICT Department, the academic and digital orientation equipped students with practical knowledge to confidently navigate university life from their first semester.

The Academic Registrar, Mr. Opio Felix, together with the Deputy Academic Registrar, Mr. Nicholas Tumwebaze, guided students through the University's academic framework, highlighting the role of the Academic Registrar's Office in supporting learners from admission through to graduation.

Students were introduced to key academic policies, admission pathways, programme regulations and the institutional support available to them whenever they require academic guidance. The orientation also provided clarity on programme transfer guidelines and the allocation of government sponsorship opportunities under the national merit and district quota schemes, enabling students to begin their studies with a clear understanding of the University's academic regulations.

Recognizing the growing importance of digital literacy in higher education, the ICT Department also took students through the University's online portal, demonstrating how it provides access to course registration, academic records, assessments and other essential learning resources.

Throughout the programme, students also interacted with the Office of the Academic Registrar, Dean of Students' Office, Communication Department, University Health Unit, Counselling Unit, RETI and other key service departments.

They participated in guided campus tours, visiting lecture rooms, computer laboratories, the University Library and other learning facilities to familiarise themselves with their new academic environment.

Sessions facilitated through the Refugee and Host Community Youth Empowerment and Transformation Initiative (RETI) introduced freshers to the University's gender and safeguarding framework.

Muni University, Arua City, in partnership with the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED), is strengthening digital procurement capacity across the West Nile Sub-Region.

The initiative brings together public servants from Muni University, Arua City, Arua District and Arua Regional Referral Hospital, positioning Muni University as a key platform for professional development and public-sector capacity building in the West Nile Sub-Region.

Through training in Electronic Government Procurement (eGP), public servants are gaining practical skills to promote transparency, accountability, efficiency and effective contract management.

Discussing Muni’s Development Trajectory: Our DVC Finance & Administration, Rev. Fr. Prof. Odubuker Picho Epiphany, interfaced with the Vice President of Uganda, H.E. Jessica Alupo, at her office on 25th August 2026 and discussed key issues on Muni University’s development trajectory.

Muni University is strengthening student leadership and nurturing the next generation of changemakers through a peer mentorship and leadership training programme for leaders of student clubs and associations.

The training, held on 18 August 2026 at Muni University in Arua City, was supported by the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE) and UNESCO and coordinated by the Office of the Dean of Students.

The initiative is designed to equip student leaders with practical knowledge and skills to become effective, responsible and transformational leaders within the university and beyond.

The training focused on key areas including transformational leadership, character development, inclusion, peer mentorship and the importance of giving back to society. Through the engagements, student leaders were encouraged to view their leadership roles not simply as positions of responsibility, but as opportunities to inspire their peers and contribute to positive change.

The programme also provided a platform for student leaders to reflect on their responsibilities, strengthen their leadership abilities and develop approaches for creating more inclusive and supportive student communities.

Muni University leadership joined the training to appreciate the initiative and provide guidance to the participating students. University Secretary, Mr Ambrose Ocen, and Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration, Rev. Prof. Odubaker Epiphany Picho, interacted with the student leaders and encouraged them to embrace the values and principles of responsible leadership.

Their participation underscored the university’s commitment to developing students beyond academic excellence by preparing them with the leadership, interpersonal and ethical skills needed to make meaningful contributions to society.

The Dean of Students, Madam Stella Amandra, emphasised the importance of empowering student leaders, noting that well-equipped and motivated leaders have the ability to inspire their peers and create lasting positive change within the university community.

The initiative reflects Muni University’s broader commitment to holistic student development, where leadership, character, inclusion and community engagement complement academic training.

By investing in student leaders today, Muni University is helping to nurture a generation of graduates capable of leading with integrity, inspiring others and contributing positively to their communities and the wider society.

Muni University on 12 August 2026 hosted a delegation from the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE), led by Prof. Paul Birevu Muyinda, for the verification of facilities and resources supporting the university’s proposed new academic programmes.

The verification exercise is part of the accreditation process through which NCHE assesses whether higher education institutions have the necessary academic, physical, technological and support resources to deliver quality education.

The NCHE delegation was received and hosted by the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (DVCAA), Prof. Jacob Agea, and the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration (DVC F&A), Rev. Fr. Prof. Odubuker Picho Epiphany.

Welcoming the delegation to Muni University, Prof. Agea made a detailed presentation on the university’s available facilities, human resources and other institutional capacities, demonstrating Muni’s preparedness to introduce and effectively deliver the proposed programmes.

Prof. Agea described the NCHE verification exercise as an important opportunity for the university to demonstrate its commitment to evidence-based quality assurance, transparency and continuous improvement.

“Muni University welcomes NCHE verification as an opportunity to demonstrate evidence, transparency and continuous quality improvement,” Prof. Agea said.

He highlighted several areas that continue to strengthen the university’s capacity to deliver quality academic programmes. These include qualified academic staff, expanding physical facilities, adequate library and ICT resources, robust research and innovation programmes, quality student support services and strong internal quality assurance systems.

Prof. Agea also emphasised the university’s commitment to maintaining high academic and institutional standards as it expands its academic portfolio to respond to emerging needs in society and the labour market.

During the exercise, the NCHE team assessed a total of 10 academic programmes for accreditation, examining the facilities, resources and institutional arrangements available to support their effective implementation.

The verification marks an important step in Muni University’s efforts to expand its academic programmes while maintaining quality and ensuring that new programmes meet the regulatory standards set by the National Council for Higher Education.

The exercise further demonstrates Muni University’s commitment to continuous quality improvement and its determination to provide relevant, high-quality higher education that contributes to the socio-economic transformation of West Nile and Uganda.

NCHE team on a tour of the University Library been guided by Dr.Buruga Bosco Apparatus.

Muni University joined forces with New Vision to launch Season Four of the Ultimate University Quiz, opening another chapter in the university’s pursuit of academic excellence, confidence-building and national visibility.

The initiative brings together Muni University students and the New Vision-led delegation in a partnership designed to equip, motivate and inspire young people to compete, broaden their knowledge and showcase their intellectual potential on the national stage.

The orientation was launched at the university’s Main Campus on 31st August 2026 by the Vice Chancellor Assoc. Prof. Simon Anguama Katrini, who welcomed the New Vision delegation and commended the initiative as a valuable platform for students.

The New Vision team, in partnership with Bank of Uganda, Uganda Communications Commission and Uganda Revenue Authority, is engaging students with practical tips, knowledge and strategies ahead of Season Four of the competition.

Muni University participated in the first three seasons of the Ultimate University Quiz, posting commendable performances, and is now preparing to build on that experience as it enters the fourth season.

Upon speaking to the students, the New Vision delegation encouraged them to take the orientation seriously, broaden their knowledge beyond their academic disciplines and use the opportunity to build confidence ahead of the competition.

The students were also encouraged to work as a team, keep themselves informed about current affairs and approach the quiz with discipline, confidence and a positive attitude.

One of the students said the orientation had given them a better understanding of what to expect and renewed their confidence to represent Muni University.

“The orientation has really opened our minds and given us useful tips on how to approach the quiz. We now feel more prepared and confident to represent Muni University. We are ready to work hard as a team and make our university proud.”

Congratulations to our DoS, Mrs. Amandru Stella, on her appointment yesterday as 2nd Vice President of the African Association of Deans of Student Affairs in Tertiary Institutions at the International Conference for African Deans of Students, Kigali, Rwanda, 25–28 August 2026.

Mrs. Amandru also presented a paper titled, “Students’ Psychological Wellbeing in the Digital Era: Challenges, Evidence and Institutional Imperatives for Ugandan Higher Education Institutions.

Muni University Staff in Arua City Led by Vice Chancellor Assoc. Prof. Simon Anguma Katrini and joined by RCC of Arua City,Maj Betty Akello and Arua City Mayor, His Worship Alionzi Lawrence participated in the National Cleaning Day Drive to Promote a Clean and Healthy Arua City. The Team conducted cleaning from the OPM Grounds through Arua Hill Roundabout, Nsambia, Awindiri Town and surrounding areas.

Muni University Fitness Club represented the University at the 2026 Rotary Cancer Run, joining fellow Ugandans including Arua City Mayor His Worship Lawrence Alionzi in the run through Arua City on 30th August 2026.