Bunyoro University has received a Shs 50 million boost from Stanbic Bank Uganda to support innovation and skills development through the establishment of an ICT hub.
Stanbic Bank becomes the first private sector entity to support the operationalisation of the newly established university, with funding directed towards setting up an ICT Maker Space at the campus in the Albertine region.
Speaking at the official handover ceremony in Hoima City, Stanbic Bank Chief Executive, Mumba Kalifungwa, emphasised the bank’s commitment to education as a key driver of national development. He noted that the initiative aligns with Stanbic’s positive impact agenda, which focuses on five pillars: education, financial inclusion, job creation, infrastructure development, and climate resilience.
“Education is a core pillar in everything we do, accounting for about 70 percent of our annual Corporate Social Investment budget. We believe it is a critical engine for Uganda’s continued development and long-term economic sustainability,” Kalifungwa said.
The Shs 50 million contribution will go towards establishing the ICT Maker Space, which is expected to serve as a centre for creativity, hands-on learning, and entrepreneurship. The facility will benefit both students and the wider Bunyoro community by promoting collaboration and practical problem-solving.
Kalifungwa said the project is in line with the bank’s purpose, “Uganda is our home, we drive her growth,” with a strong focus on empowering farmers, women, and young people through education, digital skills, and innovation.
The university, which is expected to become fully operational next year, will launch with 18 academic programmes already accredited by the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE). These programmes are designed to equip students with practical, industry-relevant skills aimed at boosting productivity and technological advancement in the oil-rich region.
“Bunyoro University represents a bold and transformative vision. Its model, where 50 percent of learning will be practical and community-based, ensures graduates are equipped not just with knowledge, but with the ability to solve real-world challenges. We are not just helping to build a university; we are shaping a future of opportunity, innovation, and shared prosperity,” Kalifungwa added.
Stanbic Bank has also earmarked up to Shs 1 trillion by 2028 to support local SMEs through incubator programmes, enhance financial inclusion through digitisation, and invest in education, health, and climate initiatives.
Prof. Samuel Kyamanywa, chairperson of the university task force, welcomed the support, describing it as timely as preparations intensify ahead of the institution’s first intake, expected in October 2027.
He said the Maker Space will play a key role in producing innovative and creative graduates equipped with relevant skills and values needed for socio-economic transformation.
“The Maker Space will be a hub for nurturing innovation and creativity, helping us deliver on our mission of building adequate and relevant human capital for this region,” Prof. Kyamanywa said.
Godwin Angalia, the Resident District Commissioner for Kikuube District, emphasised the importance of partnerships in building the university’s capacity.
“The government may not be in a position to provide everything needed for the university. That is why partnerships like this are essential. Stanbic Bank has not waited for students to enter lecture rooms; they are ensuring that when students arrive, they find everything in place,” Angalia said.
He added that the establishment of Bunyoro University is a strategic move aimed at harnessing the region’s oil and natural resource potential by developing a skilled workforce to support industrial growth and technological advancement.
Stanbic Bank has a strong track record in supporting national development initiatives. This latest contribution complements the Stanbic National Schools Championship, which over the past decade has nurtured young talent in secondary schools across Uganda.
The programme focuses on entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and innovation, helping students transition from the classroom into the real economy with confidence. To date, it has reached over 600,000 students, supported more than 500 schools, and led to the creation of over 200 registered student-led businesses.
