Minister Musasizi Commends Kabale Diocese for Launching St. Ignatius University to Combat Illiteracy

BY ARINDA NSHEKA

In a remarkable initiative aimed at combating illiteracy and fostering education, Kabale Diocese has taken a significant step forward by launching St. Ignatius University. The honorable State Minister for Finance, Hon. Henry Musasizi, who was the Chief Guest at the event of raising funds for it’s operationalization held at Rubanda Catholic Parish on Sunday, commended this move and highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting such endeavors.

Minister Musasizi recalled the government’s dedication to eradicating illiteracy through programs like Universal Primary Education and Universal Secondary Education. He emphasized that the conducive environment created by the government has allowed the private sector to flourish, leading to the establishment of institutions like St. Ignatius University. He assured the Bishop of Kabale Diocese, Rt Rev Bishop Callist Rubaramira, of the government’s unwavering support for this noble cause.

Furthermore, Hon. Musasizi, also the Member of Parliament for Rubanda County East and NRM party Chairman for Rubanda District, lauded the university for offering science courses, thus contributing to the development of essential skills in the region.

The minister underscored the significance of tourism in Rubanda district, highlighting its role in employing numerous young people. Rubanda’s attractions, including mountain gorillas and Lake Bunyonyi, draw tourists from around the world, making tourism a vital sector for the district’s economy. He noted that billions of dollars Uganda earns from the Tourism sector come from Rubanda District.

Hon. Musasizi used the opportunity to encourage Ugandans to embrace the Parish Development Model (PDM), an initiative by the government aimed at transitioning from a subsistence economy to a money economy. This initiative seeks to improve the livelihoods of citizens and promote economic growth.

In a generous gesture, Hon. Henry Musasizi paid Shs 20 million towards the fundraising efforts to operationalize St. Ignatius University.

Bishop Callist Rubaramira revealed that the diocese had generously donated land to St. Ignatius University, ensuring that all necessary facilities are available for effective learning. The fundraising campaign, led by Dr. Peter Ngategize, Chairperson of Bishop’s Annual Appeal Fund (BAAF) of Kabale Catholic Diocese, aims to raise three billion Shillings for the operationalization of the university.

During the event, an impressive sum of Shillings 178 million was raised in cash, signaling strong community support for the university project.