The Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) has received high praise for its growing contribution to girl-child education and its success in attracting international support, as the institution celebrated its 34th graduation ceremony in Mbale.
Uganda’s Ambassador to Türkiye, Nusura Tiperu, applauded the university for creating an inclusive learning environment where girls and young women—Muslim and non-Muslim—can access higher education and excel in academic disciplines traditionally dominated by men.
She said IUIU’s founding principles of discipline, faith and academic excellence have helped build confidence among young women, making the institution a preferred choice for parents and development organisations seeking safe and values-driven education for girls.
The ambassador also noted that IUIU continues to benefit from strong partnerships with international organisations, especially those from Organisation of Islamic Cooperation member countries. These partnerships have supported scholarships, staff training, infrastructure development and specialised programmes, giving girls from disadvantaged communities greater access to university education.
“IUIU’s strength is not only in its academic achievements, but in its values—integrity, service and respect—which are crucial in shaping confident women leaders of the future,” she said, according to the university’s summary of her remarks.
The graduation ceremony also featured the award of an honorary doctorate to Vice President Jessica Alupo, in recognition of her leadership, service to the country and long-standing commitment to promoting education, particularly for girls.
University officials said Alupo’s achievements as a soldier, civil servant and politician offer an inspiring example to young women aiming for leadership and professional excellence. They added that her journey aligns closely with the university’s mission to produce principled graduates dedicated to national development.
Rector Ismail Simbwa Gyagenda said the institution has made deliberate efforts to boost female enrolment, retention and graduation through scholarships, mentorship and a supportive campus environment.
Since opening in the late 1980s with only 80 students, IUIU has expanded into a multi-campus university with tens of thousands of graduates across the region. Many of its alumnae now serve in education, health care, public service and community leadership.
With students from across East and West Africa and beyond, the university has positioned itself as a regional hub for inclusive higher education, built on faith, academic excellence and global collaboration.
Officials expressed confidence that with continued international support, IUIU will further strengthen its role in transforming lives through education—especially for girls and young women who might otherwise miss the opportunity to pursue higher learning.
