AGENCIES
Parliament has approved the allocation of Shs30 billion to the Ministry of Education and Sports Uganda for the establishment of Karamoja Peace and Technology University, fulfilling a pledge made by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
The approval followed the presentation of a report on the 2026/27 National Budget Framework Paper by Remigio Achia, Vice Chairperson of Parliament’s Budget Committee.
Achia told the House that although the president pledged Shs30 billion as start-up funding for construction in the 2025/26 financial year, only Shs10 billion had been allocated, leaving a shortfall of Shs20 billion.
The Karamoja Peace and Technology University project is aimed at promoting peace, advancing technology and accelerating socio-economic development in the Karamoja sub-region.
Government officials say the institution is expected to help address long-standing challenges in the region, including cattle rustling, food insecurity and youth unemployment, by equipping learners with practical and technical skills.
The government had previously allocated Shs180 billion for the project in the 2025/26 national budget as part of broader efforts to expand access to higher education and foster stability in Karamoja.
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Kotido LCV chairperson, Paul Lote Komol-, applauded President Museveni for championing the KAPTU initiative, noting that the university represents a deep commitment to uplifting the future of Karamoja.
He also commended the Ethiopian government and other international partners for their vital support in the project realization.
“Karamoja has endured much hardships, but this university is a beacon of hope”, Lote said.
He noted that the university will play a critical role in addressing the issue of cattle rustling which had riddled the region for decades and open opportunities for the region.
“Education and transformation go hand in hand , and we are grateful for the this visionary project”, said Lote.
He believes that integrating technical skills with peace education will address long-standing causes of conflict in Karamoja such as unemployment, cultural misunderstandings, and the lack of economic alternatives.
According to Lote, the university will also produce professionals capable of responsibly managing the region’s rich natural mineral deposits and livestock.
About KAPTU
The Karamoja Peace and Technology University (KAPTU) is a multi- stakeholders initiative involving the Catholic Diocese of Kotido and Moroto, Catholic Lawyers Society International (CLASI), and the Government of Uganda.
The idea was first conceived by CLASI in 2014, and the project was officially launched in April 2023 during a ceremony at the Uganda Episcopal Conference Headquarters in Nsambya, presided by President Museveni, represented by Rtd. Maj. Jessica Rose Alupo Epel.
The foundation stone for the university was laid in July 2023 at Losilang by President Museveni, who is also KAPTU’s Founding Chancellor.
Vice president Alupo serves as the Deputy Founding Chancellor and the Chief promoter of the university.
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