Nkumba University has secured a multi-billion-shilling loan from the Uganda Development Bank (UDB) to finance the construction of modern student hostels at Mpoobe Hostel Village in Katabi Town Council, a landmark investment aimed at easing the university’s chronic accommodation shortage.
According to university officials, the project marks a major milestone in improving student welfare, learning conditions, and institutional sustainability.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Jude Lubega described the development as a breakthrough, saying it reflects the university’s commitment to creating a secure, affordable, and conducive living environment for students.
Home to more than 6,000 students, Nkumba University currently accommodates only about 400 learners on campus. With over 2,000 new admissions annually, most students are forced to rent off-campus housing, which raises their living costs and exposes them to security risks.
The University Secretary, Francis Sengendo, noted that this has contributed to a 25% student attrition rate linked to inadequate accommodation.
To address the challenge, the University Council and Board of Trustees approved the development of the Mpoobe Students’ Hostel Village, to be built on university-owned land. The facility will provide safe, affordable, and well-serviced housing while generating sustainable income for the institution.
Officials from UDB, during an inception meeting, reaffirmed that the investment aligns with the bank’s mission to support socio-economic growth through education and infrastructure development.
Nkumba University has since commended the bank for its confidence and partnership.
“We appreciate UDB’s trust in our vision. Together, we are laying the foundation for a stronger, student-centered university,” said Sengendo.
Founded in 1994 and tracing its roots to 1952, Nkumba University is a private, not-for-profit chartered institution. It is guided by the vision “To be a leading national, regional, and global hub for academic and professional excellence” and a mission that fosters competence, confidence, creativity, and character.
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