Bugema University Kampala Campus:
A pioneering history of Adventist Education in Uganda
Bugema University’s Kampala Campus has a rich history which is shared by all the Institutions progressively established by the Seventh – day Adventist Church at Bugema in Luweero district since 1948. The journey of the Bugema institutions is deeply rooted in the worldwide system of Adventist Education which began in Nchwanga, western Uganda. Later the SDA Church bought one square mile of land at Bugema village hence the transfer of the primary school and training school for pastors from Nchwanga to Bugema in 1948. Since that date we have seen the Primary School, the Secondary School, The Vocational School and the University and its centres grow and expand. This growth trajectory reflects the SDA Church commitment to meeting the educational needs of the community and beyond.
A pivotal moment in Bugema University’s history occurred in 1994 when it obtained a government license to operate as a university. This milestone elevated its status and enabled it to offer a broader range of degree programs. Initially focusing on Theology, Business Administration, and Education, were then added to the university’s academic portfolio.
The subsequent years witnessed steady growth and development at Bugema University. It attracted students not only from Uganda but also from other African countries, as evidence of its growing reputation and appeal. This diversification of its student body was attributed to the university’s vibrant academic, spiritual, and social environment.
In due time, the need to accommodate the professional growth of the working class people in Kampala necessitated the opening up of an evening satellite centre in Kampala. This centre was opened in 2005 and it was initially hosted at the Uganda Union of Seventh day Adventists Headquarters. In 2009 the building where the campus is currently located was bought and hence the classes were transferred.
In 2009, Bugema University achieved another significant milestone when it received a charter from the President of Uganda. This charter recognized Bugema University as a fully-fledged university, cementing its position in the higher education landscape of Uganda. With this recognition came further expansion of opportunities, including the establishment of a graduate school and the introduction of new programs.
The introduction of programs in Business Administration, Education, Development Studies, Counseling Psychology, and Public Health to mention but a few underscores the University’s commitment to addressing emerging educational needs and societal challenges. These additions diversified its offerings and enhanced its relevance in an evolving global context.
Bugema University’s commitment to academic excellence and quality assurance is evident in its accreditation by the Adventist Accrediting Association and the National Council for Higher Education. These external validations underscore the university’s adherence to rigorous standards and its dedication to providing a high-quality educational experience.
In conclusion Kampala Campus as the first of the 4 satellite centers of the University in Uganda was accredited by the National Council for Higher Education in 2017. The campus is committed to the pursuit of excellence, innovation and community engagement. It is indeed a centre where knowledge and opportunities meet.