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Valley University of Science and Technology founder William Mukaira gives his remarks on the University
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By Our Reporter
Bushenyi
Valley University of Science and Technology (VUST) yesterday held a thanksgiving ceremony to celebrate the historic milestone of receiving a university charter from President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
The event, held at the university grounds in Bwatogo Cell, Central Division, Bushenyi–Ishaka Municipality, was led by the Emeritus Bishop of West Ankole Diocese, Rt. Rev. Yona Katonene, who urged Christians and the community to always thank God for every achievement. 
Mzee William Mukaira and emeritus Katonene with lead others in praising the lord
“We are celebrating a big milestone that God has granted to Valley University of Science and Technology upon receiving its charter,” Bishop Katonene said.
Prof. Elly Sabit, the chief guest, challenged universities to embrace innovation and integrate technology in learning to address unemployment. He also urged the VUST Council and Board to use the charter in line with National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) guidelines to ensure growth and community impact.
University founder and Board of Trustees chairman, William Mukaira, expressed delight at the institution’s steady growth. “I am very happy to see what we started growing steadily, and I am optimistic that Valley University will advance in technology to ensure my dream comes true,” Mukaira said.
Guests cutting the cake
Vice Chancellor Enos Rwasheema expressed deep appreciation to the university governing bodies, staff, and students, whose collective effort made the achievement possible.
Representing the university council, Prof. Edward Kanyesigye thanked NCHE for its guidance throughout the charter process. He urged the university community to view this achievement not as an end, but as a stepping stone toward becoming one of the world’s leading universities.
On behalf of NCHE Executive Director Prof. Mary Okwakol, Arthur Mugizi Babu, the Council’s Director of Finance, Administration, and Planning, congratulated VUST but raised concern over high dropout rates at lower education levels. He revealed that while 92 percent of university entrants complete their studies, the overall enrollment ratio for higher education in Uganda remains only 6.7 percent.
President Museveni signed the university’s charter on July 3, 2025, officially elevating VUST into the ranks of fully accredited degree-awarding institutions in Uganda.
Founded in 2016 by veteran educationist and politician William Mukaira, the first Bushenyi District Chairperson, VUST was established with a vision of promoting science, innovation, and practical education.
Over the years, the institution has grown into a centre of excellence in Western Uganda, offering programs in agriculture, ICT, education, and business studies, with an emphasis on applied research and community-based learning.
The function concluded with students showcasing their creativity and talents, thrilling guests, staff, and fellow students as they celebrated this new chapter for the university.
Torch Media Africa
