Kagadi, Uganda
The National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) has commended African Rural University (ARU) for its innovative community engagement model, describing it as a powerful example of how higher education institutions can contribute to rural transformation and sustainable development.
The commendation was made during a two-day compliance and progress assessment visit conducted from June 10 to 11, 2026.
The NCHE delegation, led by Rev. Dr. Cyrus Ssebugenyi and comprising Mr. Vincent Byamukama, Mr. Kibiringe, and Mr. Emmanuel Ssetuba, engaged with the university’s leadership, staff, students, Council members, and other key stakeholders.
During the assessment, the team praised ARU’s unique approach of integrating teaching, research, and community engagement, which enables students to acquire practical skills while working directly with communities to address real-life challenges.
The delegation also highlighted the university’s competency-based learning model, which combines 60 percent practical training with 40 percent theoretical instruction.
According to NCHE, the model equips graduates with the skills and experience needed to make an immediate impact in their communities and workplaces.
In addition, the assessment team commended the university’s conducive working environment, high levels of student satisfaction, strong staff welfare programs, and the employability of its graduates.
ARU’s commitment to environmental conservation also earned praise, with the delegation noting the university’s well-maintained 55-acre green campus and its efforts to promote sustainable environmental practices.
The NCHE team further acknowledged the university’s effective academic and administrative systems, while providing recommendations aimed at strengthening governance, research, infrastructure development, and internationalization.
The assessment reflects growing recognition of African Rural University’s role in advancing community-centered education and empowering rural communities through knowledge, innovation, and practical learning.
The News Editor ,Reporter at Kagadi Kibaale community Radio
