By Racheal N. Namuli
Entebbe Municipal Council has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Kisubi to offer a 30% tuition discount to students, in a bid to boost access to higher education across the greater Wakiso District.
The MoU was signed by Entebbe Municipality Mayor Fabrice Rulinda, Municipal Education Officer Joyce Nalubega, and Mr. Kakooza Celestine, who represented the University of Kisubi.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to support teachers and learners following the government’s 2022 directive, which requires all primary school teachers to hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree to be recognized as qualified professionals.
In response to this directive, the University of Kisubi promptly extended a 30% tuition discount to primary school teachers across Wakiso District, allowing them to pursue degree programs and meet the new qualification standards.
Now, the newly signed MoU expands this opportunity beyond teachers. Any individual in the greater Wakiso region interested in upgrading their qualifications in arts-related courses can benefit from the ongoing tuition discount. The offer is described as both open and unlimited.
Speaking on behalf of the University, Mr. Kakooza emphasized the importance of skills development, noting that the initiative aligns with the government’s broader agenda to promote hands-on training and empower citizens through practical education.
Municipal Education Officer Joyce Nalubega revealed that since the university introduced this offer in 2022, 20 teachers have successfully earned their degrees, with four already progressing to master’s programs. Currently, around 200 teachers have enrolled under the discounted scheme.
Mayor Rulinda praised the initiative, calling it a transformative opportunity that residents should fully embrace. He encouraged beneficiaries to return and contribute meaningfully to their communities as a way of giving back.
Despite the positive reception, some beneficiaries are calling for further support. Veteran teacher and program participant Makumbi Francis appealed to the University of Kisubi to consider increasing the tuition discount from 30% to at least 50%, citing the relatively low salaries of arts teachers and the additional costs of transport and other necessities required to attend lectures.
