Efforts geared towards establishing a university in Budalang’i, Bunyala Sub-County Busia County have received a boost following the signing of Memorandum of Understanding between Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) and the Bunyala Community.
The agreement witnessed by Busia Governor, Dr. Paul Otuoma, Budalangi MP, Raphael Wanjala and JOOUST Vice Chancellor, Prof Emily Achieng Akuno among other leaders paves way for roll out of academic programs at Mundere campus in Bunyala North Ward after completion of renovation works and provision of necessary amenities.
Addressing residents during a joint meeting that preceded the deal, Governor Otuoma said the inking of the agreement marks an important milestone in the academic journey towards access to college and university education in Busia County.
He said investment in education is crucial for the region as it will help realize nearly 100 percent of learners’ transition to universities.
“My government is already doing something at the very entry-level to ensure the retention of learners in schools through the school feeding programme that is benefiting an estimated 46,290 leaners in 460 Public Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE) centres across the county,” he said.
He added that his administration is separately supporting education through the Busia County Support Scheme, which came into operation following the passing of Busia County Support Scheme Act 2017.
“The scheme has various products that support education in the County, namely Bursary, Scholarship, HELB Loan, and Afya Elimu. The scheme is primarily aimed at supporting bright and vulnerable learners to access education and create a cohesive society.”
To this effect, the county boss directed his officers to ensure line departments facilitate the campus with uninterrupted supply of water, install mass lighting, rehabilitate the road network leading to the campus, and work towards the upgrading of Port Victoria Hospital to Level 4 to support future programs on health.
“Similarly, as an affirmative gesture, we commit to give bursaries for top 100 bright students who are needy. We hope this institution will offer research opportunities to explore key sectors including blue economy, tourism and agriculture among others,” he revealed.
Wanjala disclosed that already plans are in advanced stage to construct a 600-bed capacity hostel through the National Government’s Affordable Housing programme.
“We are more than ready to see this campus take off. The community here is excited and ready to support the institution to best or their effort. As leaders we will also work round the clock to ensure we have good enrolment,” he said.
He added that the community stands a great chance to benefit from the trickle-down effect that will result from the presence of the institution.
JOOUST Vice Chancellor Prof Akuno said her institution has a strong focus on research, agriculture, blue economy, education, environment, health and technology.
“I want to assure the people of Bunyala that we are ready to start our academic programs here with the intention to make a difference in the community and the region on matters literacy.”
The campus boasts of an administration block and two hostels, all financed by the Budalang’i National Government Constituency Development Fund.
Also available include a disaster management and rescue centre, water reservoir, ablution block and a library under construction.
By Absalom Namwalo
