Kabale University is on the verge of losing over 3 billion shillings from its consolidated fund, which comprises school fees and other dues collected this year.
The Vice Chancellor of the University made this revelation today during her speech at the 7th graduation ceremony, presided over by the University Chancellor, Prof. George Mondo Kagonyera.
The ceremony took place at the University playground in Kikungiri Hill, Southern Division of Kabale Municipality, where a total of 1,272 graduates graduated in various courses.
During the event, Prof. Joy Kwesiga highlighted the challenges faced by the University in terms of its financial sustainability.
She expressed concern over the University’s inability to recover the money it collects through school fees and other dues.
Prof. Kwesiga mentioned that even if the University applies for a supplementary budget, it becomes difficult for them to secure the funds, putting them at risk of losing over 3 billion shillings.
She added that the financial situation has become a recurring problem for the institution, as the University’s attempts to increase tax revenue during the budgeting process are denied by the finance department.
She noted that despite providing evidence of past successful collections, the University is bound by the agreement that all funds must be remitted into the consolidated fund.
Both Prof. Joy Kwesiga and the Chairman of Kabale University council, Hon. Adson Kakuru, expressed their concerns about the inadequate state of the University’s infrastructure.
Hon. Kakuru stated that the University will continue engaging with the government through the Ministry of Finance and Education to prioritize the improvement of infrastructure, ensuring that Kabale University receives the necessary support as a public institution.
However, the University Chancellor, Prof. George Mondo Kagonyera, took a different stance on the matter, emphasizing that the most crucial aspect of an institution is its staff and students.
He confidently stated that the University will continue to achieve its goals and objectives, irrespective of the current state of infrastructure.
In terms of the graduating class, 754 males and 523 females were among the graduates.