News and Events

IUIU Launches $1 Million Campaign to Empower Muslim Teachers

• 17th February, 2025 11:46am

The Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) together with the IUIU Alumni Association have launched an ambitious initiative to raise $1 million by 2030 to help teachers in Muslim-founded primary schools obtain bachelor's degrees. The campaign aligns with the Ugandan government's 2019 policy, which requires all teachers from nursery to primary level to upgrade to a bachelor’s degree within ten years or risk leaving the profession.

Speaking at the sixth annual IUIU Alumni Association dinner, held at the Imperial Royale Hotel in Kampala on February 15, 2025, IUIU Rector, Prof. Ismail Simbwa Gyagenda, emphasized the urgency of the initiative. He called on alumni to pledge $100 annually towards the cause, leading by example with his initial donation.

“Let us go bold and start this $1 million campaign to support these teachers because they don’t have the means to obtain degrees,” Prof. Gyagenda stated. He warned that failure to act could put Muslim-founded schools at risk due to a shortage of qualified teachers.

Themed “Rekindling Bonds, Building Dreams: Unleashing Alumni Potential for a Brighter Tomorrow,” the event brought together alumni, faculty, and distinguished guests. Among them was Hajati Sharifa Buzeki, the newly appointed Executive Director of Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and an IUIU alumnus. She applauded IUIU’s commitment to producing competent, God-fearing graduates and encouraged fellow alumni to actively participate in association initiatives.

Leading a mini fundraising drive at the event, Hajati Buzeki contributed one million Ugandan shillings in cash toward the campaign. She highlighted the power of alumni engagement in fostering educational opportunities for underprivileged students.

Mousa Ssenkubuge, Executive Secretary of the IUIU Alumni Association, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to empowering Muslim teachers. He also unveiled the IUIU Alumni Village project, an ambitious plan to develop a modern complex featuring a primary and secondary school, as well as a healthcare facility.

“We intend to acquire 50 acres of land for this project, and so far, 50 individuals have already committed their support,” Ssenkubuge announced. He urged more alumni to contribute, noting that such initiatives would benefit both contributors and future generations. The proposed village aims to serve as a hub for educational excellence and community well-being, offering quality education and healthcare to alumni families and the broader community.

The IUIU Alumni Association reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening its network and supporting the university’s mission through collective action.