Bishop Stuart University Clarifies “Winding Up” Notice

Bishop Stuart University has not closed down.

Bishop Stuart University (BSU) issued a statement clarifying a recent notice regarding the university’s status. The notice, published in the New Vision newspaper, mentioned a “voluntary winding up” of Bishop Stuart University Ltd, which sparked concern among the public.

“We understand the confusion this may have caused,” said Prof. Gershom Atukunda, Vice Chancellor of BSU. “However, it’s important to emphasize that BSU is not closing down.”

Transforming Legal Structure, Not Closing Down

According to the clarification notice, the university explained that the “winding up” refers to a legal process of transitioning from a company limited by guarantee to operating solely under its university charter. Bishop Stuart University was granted a charter on October 25th 2014.

The Vice Chancellor noted that this change, granted in 2014, aligns BSU with the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act 2001.

“This is simply a technical restructuring to ensure we comply with all legal requirements,” Prof. Atukunda further clarified. “Our core mission of providing quality education remains unchanged.”

“…..Bishop Stuart University (BSU) was incorporated as a Company Ltd by Guarantee and has since been using the assets of the Church of Uganda under the foundation body of Ankole Diocese. The University was granted a Charter status on October 25 2014 and is now governed by the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act 2001.

It is against this background that the Directors of BSU voluntarily declared to wind up as a company limited by Guarantee and operate as a University governed by the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act 2001…..a notice published on BSU website reads in part.

Commitment to Students and Community

BSU emphasized its commitment to its students, faculty, and the wider community. The university assured everyone that academic operations will continue uninterrupted.

“We apologize for any inconvenience caused,” Prof. Atukunda said. “We remain dedicated to fulfilling our mandate as per the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) guidelines and delivering exceptional education to our students.”

Moving Forward

Prof. Atukunda emphasized, “We want to dispel any perceived controversy and provide clarity to the general public regarding BSU’s current status. This transition does not compromise our commitment to fulfilling our mandate as outlined by the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE).”

ABOUT Bishop Stuart University

From 1952-1981, Bishop Stuart College trained grade II and III teachers. In 1982 the College was transferred to Kibingo in Rwampara (currently Mbarara city) giving way to National Teachers College, Kakoba to train Diploma Teachers for Primary and Secondary Schools.

In March 2002, the Ankole Diocese Synod resolved to establish a University at Kakoba Hill, named Bishop Stuart University. In April 2004, Bishop Stuart University became affiliated to Uganda Christian University, Mukono and through this affiliation, Uganda Christian University started awarding Degrees, Diplomas, and Certificates to Bishop Stuart University students.

Bishop Stuart University was then licensed by National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) and was allowed to award Degrees, Diplomas, and Certificates starting with the 2006/2007 Academic Year until 2014 when the University received her charter from NCHE. This meant that the University would start awarding any Postgraduate and Undergraduate degree in any discipline as long as it’s accredited by NCHE.