On June 24, 2025, Ankole Western University proudly hosted a historic signing ceremony that marked the official commencement of the Endowment Fund Project for the Church of Uganda’s Universities and Institutions. This initiative stemmed from the collaborative efforts of all COU institutions and universities under the Church of Uganda Higher Education Leaders Association (COUHELA), which was launched last year with the shared vision of promoting cooperation among COU Universities and Institutions. COUHELA aims to facilitate exchange programs, experience sharing, and the establishment of an endowment fund dedicated to enhancing infrastructure and academic development strategies.
During the meeting, Dr. Aaron Mushengyezi, Vice Chancellor of Uganda Christian University, emphasized that this partnership is designed to elevate the Church of Uganda Universities into premier centers of learning not just in Uganda, but across Africa and the globe. He encouraged member Universities to undertake internal assessments to redirect their energies and resources toward initiatives that promote institutional growth, while also contributing to the expansion of the fund.
Rev. Canon Dr. Paul Kakooza, the Director of Education at the Church of Uganda Provincial Secretariat, revealed that the fund has already reached 150 million Uganda Shillings. He stated that the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) will significantly boost the growth of the fund.
Notable attendees at this meaningful gathering included:
- Rev. Canon Dr. Paul Kakooza, Director of Education, Church of Uganda Provincial Secretariat
- Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, Vice Chancellor, Uganda Christian University
- Dr. Andrew Ainomugisha, Vice Chancellor, Ankole Western University
- Representatives from Kagando Rural Development Centre (School of Nursing and Midwifery)
- Prof. John F. Mugisha, Vice Chancellor, Bishop Stuart University
- Rev. Can Karugaba P. Fred, Registrar, Uganda Bible Institute
- Rev. Dr. Richard Mulindwa, Executive Director, Mengo Hospital Training Institute.