The Mufti of Uganda, His Eminence Sheikh Al-Hajji Dr Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, has commended Kyambogo University for its contribution to Uganda’s intellectual development, emphasising the importance of combining academic excellence with spiritual nourishment to build responsible citizens. Sheikh Mubaje said education is a vital tool for serving Allah and communities, noting that knowledge elevates individuals, opens opportunities and provides solutions to societal challenges. “Seeking knowledge is obligatory because it opens doors and helps solve societal problems,” he said, urging students to pursue education to benefit their families, communities and the nation while maintaining strong spiritual values.
The Mufti made the remarks during his first visit to Kyambogo University on October 14, 2026, where he paid a courtesy call on the university leadership and interacted with members of the Muslim community. He applauded the university for preparing students for professional careers and contributing to Uganda’s intellectual landscape and beyond. He also underscored religion’s role in shaping the moral values necessary for responsible leadership and social development. The visit culminated in an agreement between Kyambogo University and the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC) to establish a framework for collaboration in education, research, community outreach and spiritual guidance.
The Mufti and the DVC during the event.
Speaking during the meeting, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration, Associate Professor Justus Kwetegyeka, said the university recognises religion’s important role in promoting peaceful coexistence and strengthening the moral foundations of stable communities. “At Kyambogo University, we work harmoniously with all religions and faiths,” he said, adding that collaboration with the UMSC would create opportunities for both institutions to advance education, research, community engagement and spiritual development. Prof. Kwetegyeka noted that Uganda’s predominantly young population requires concerted efforts from academic and religious institutions to nurture responsible citizens equipped with both knowledge and good character. He emphasised that education should go beyond intellectual development to include character formation, ethical leadership and social responsibility, noting that spiritual nourishment plays an important role in this process. He added that partnerships between academic and religious institutions could strengthen peaceful coexistence and promote values that contribute to national development.
Participants pose for a group photo after the meeting.
Under the proposed memorandum of understanding (MoU), the two institutions intend to explore scholarship opportunities for Muslim students who struggle to pay tuition fees. The partnership will also provide training for imams and other Muslim leaders in sign language, Braille Quran reading, and Arabic instruction. These initiatives aim to expand access to education, promote inclusion, and address areas of mutual interest between the institutions. To facilitate the process, Sheikh Mubaje appointed two UMSC officials to work with Kyambogo University to coordinate discussions and streamline the development of the MoU.