There is growing excitement and anticipation across the Karamoja sub-region as locals eagerly await the opening of Karamoja Peace and Technology University (KAPATU). This was revealed by the university’s President, Rt. Rev. Dominic Eibu MCCJ, also the Bishop of Kotido Catholic Diocese, during his visit to the KAPATU Kampala Coordination Office on Friday, July 11, 2025.
Located in Bugoloobi, the office welcomed Bishop Eibu with warm hospitality from the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof. Annette Kezaabu, and other university leaders and deans. The Bishop’s visit aimed to assess the ongoing progress of the university and personally engage with the staff driving the institution forward.
In his address, Bishop Eibu commended the commitment and sacrifice shown by the university staff, many of whom have worked voluntarily due to limited funding. “Some people dropped out because of money challenges, but you have stayed the course. You’ve proved you are real missionaries, and your reward will come from God and, eventually, from people. Your dedication shows that education is not just for self-benefit, but for service,” he said.
He reassured staff that President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is fully behind the KAPATU project. According to Bishop Eibu, the President was thrilled to see the Catholic Church take the lead in establishing a university in Karamoja, a goal he had long hoped to achieve with the right partner.
Bishop Eibu further shared that the people of Karamoja have taken full ownership of the project. “They are no longer asking what is KAPATU, but where is our university. That shows you how connected they feel to this initiative. It’s now their university,” he explained. He noted that the university’s practical training approach has raised expectations across the region, with many people asking how they can become part of it.
Prof. Annette Kezaabu, speaking on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, described Bishop Eibu’s visit as a strong sign of progress. She said the staff were encouraged by his leadership and ready to serve the institution with all their hearts. “Our mission is not to compete with anyone, but to transform Karamoja and the Ateker region. Our programs are for purpose, not prestige,” she emphasized.
Prof. Kezaabu also briefed the Bishop on key milestones, including the preparation of academic programs for submission to the National Council for Higher Education. She added that the university plans to inaugurate its Chancellor within two months and that KAPATU will offer short courses to generate income and create a pipeline of students ready to advance into diploma and degree programs.
The University Secretary, Mr. Henry Kyarimpa, highlighted the tremendous progress made so far. He explained that both academic and support structures are in place, and if the current pace continues, KAPATU could begin admitting students even before the typical three-year university setup period ends. “We are on track. We believe this university will play a major role in the social and economic transformation of Karamoja,” he said.
Gabriel Kazigo Rwaguburi, the Director of Human Resource, assured Bishop Eibu that recruitment will prioritize the people of Karamoja and the larger Ateker community. He said that 50% of the university’s support staff positions will go to locals to ensure community involvement and ownership of the institution.
About KAPATU
Karamoja Peace and Technology University (KAPATU) is a new public university created through a partnership between the Roman Catholic Diocese of Kotido, the Catholic Lawyers Society International (CLASI), and the Government of Uganda. Its main campus is based in Kotido Municipality, at the heart of Karamoja.
Though the idea for KAPATU was born in 2014, it was officially launched on April 29, 2023, in a colorful ceremony at Nsambya, presided over by Vice President Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo on behalf of President Yoweri Museveni. The university is guided by a Strategic Leadership Committee chaired by President Museveni as the founding Chancellor and Vice President Alupo as founding Deputy Chancellor.
The Ugandan government has allocated Shs180 billion in the 2025/2026 financial year to support the establishment of the university, following a special cabinet session held on December 16, 2024. KAPATU aims to promote peace, skills development, and lasting transformation in the Karamoja sub-region through practical, inclusive education.
