Nkumba University has received a donation of 30 modern computers from the Government of Uganda, a move officials say will strengthen digital learning, enhance innovation, and accelerate the country’s transition toward a knowledge-based economy.
The computers, installed at the Wavah ICT Complex, were officially handed over by the State Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Joyce Nabbosa Ssebugwawo, under the government’s ongoing digital transformation initiatives aimed at expanding access to technology across academic institutions.
Hon. Ssebugwawo said the donation fulfills a government commitment to ensure that Ugandans are not left behind in the digital era. “I am here to fulfill a promise made by the Government of Uganda, a promise to bring technology closer to the people,” she said. “We believe that if we enable digital skills training, no Ugandan will be left behind as the world goes digital.”
The minister explained that the equipment was delivered under the Uganda Digital Acceleration Project, through which the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance is supporting institutions with technology and internet connectivity. “Whether you study law, business, or education, today you need a computer to do your work well,” she said, officially handing over the computers to the university.
She added that the devices would serve as a bridge connecting students to global research resources, online learning platforms, and international markets.
The minister also pledged continued support to higher education institutions, noting that government efforts are underway to reduce internet costs nationwide to improve digital accessibility.
University leaders described the donation as a significant milestone in improving practical ICT training and preparing students for an increasingly digital global economy.
Speaking during the ceremony, Nkumba University Vice Chancellor Prof. Jude Lubega expressed gratitude to the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, noting that the contribution arrives at a critical time when digital skills are central to education and employment. “This contribution is timely and strategic,” Prof. Lubega said. “It significantly strengthens our capacity to deliver quality ICT education and supports innovation and research among our learners.”
He emphasized that ICT is now integral to national development, powering sectors such as healthcare, governance, education, finance, and entrepreneurship. “Investments in ICT infrastructure are investments in Uganda’s future,” he added, aligning the university’s digital agenda with Uganda’s Vision 2040, which identifies technology as a key driver of socio-economic transformation.
According to Prof. Lubega, the additional computers will expand opportunities for students in programming, cybersecurity, data analytics, and emerging technologies while improving access to modern digital tools.
Chairperson of the Nkumba University Council, Dr. Christopher Samuel Mayanja, described the donation as an investment in Uganda’s human capital rather than simply a provision of equipment. “Today we are not just receiving hardware, we are receiving transformation,” Dr. Mayanja said. “In an era where technology is the backbone of every industry, this contribution strengthens innovation, research, and hands-on learning.”
He explained that the computers would primarily serve the School of Computing and Informatics, improving the student-to-computer ratio and enabling more intensive practical training aligned with global ICT standards.
The University Council, he added, would ensure proper oversight and maintenance of the equipment to maximize its long-term impact.
Officials also noted that the institution has continued to partner with government agencies to advance digital literacy and innovation. In 2024, the university collaborated with the Uganda Communications Commission to promote digital literacy programs in rural communities, while also supporting the integration of e-learning initiatives in primary education last year.
The Minister stressed that the ultimate beneficiaries of the initiative are students, who will gain improved access to modern digital tools needed for innovation and entrepreneurship. “These computers are meant to prepare graduates who are not only knowledgeable in their disciplines but also digitally smart,” Hon. Ssebugwawo said.
Prof. Lubega echoed the sentiment, describing the event as more than a ceremonial handover. “What is happening today represents a shared commitment to a digitally empowered Uganda,” he said. “By equipping our students with the right tools, we are preparing innovators and technology leaders who will shape the country’s future.”
Founded in 1994, Nkumba University has grown into one of Uganda’s leading private universities, offering programs across computing, business, law, health sciences, education, and social sciences. The Wavah ICT Complex, university leaders said, symbolizes its long-term commitment to technology-driven education.
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