Ankole Western University | AWU Academics

Ankole Western University offers a wide range of academic programs including Masters, Postgraduate Diplomas, Degrees, and Diplomas. Additionally, the university runs short courses designed to impart practical skills and cultivate professional competencies in entrepreneurship, leadership, critical thinking, innovation, academic excellence, and integrity. AWU’s academic programs aim to produce graduates capable of transforming their communities.

Ankole Western University | AWU Co-curricular

Life at AWU is vibrant and dynamic. The campus atmosphere is welcoming, energetic, and supportive of students from all backgrounds. AWU hosts over 1,300 students who not only attend classes but also engage in collaboration, innovation, research, and personal development.

With more than six clubs and student associations, AWU offers opportunities to explore cultural heritage, participate in inter-faculty competitions at Sheema Stadium, watch football matches, and utilize high-speed fiber optic Wi-Fi for academic research and leisure. Student life at AWU is designed to cultivate a sense of community, foster leadership, and encourage holistic growth.

Ankole Western University | AWU History

The roots of AWU trace back to the early 1980s, when local Anglican leaders and community members recognized the need for an affordable and accessible institution for the rural youth of Bushenyi District in Western Uganda. The West Ankole Diocese resolved in 2002 to establish a university at Kabwohe Hill, building on the foundation of seven diocesan secondary schools founded by Rt. Rev. Yoram K. Bamunoba and other stakeholders.

Education in Uganda during the 1970s was challenging, as only pupils scoring Division 1 in the Primary Leaving Examination (PLE) could access secondary education. To combat this, the West Ankole Diocese established a network of private secondary schools, laying the groundwork for tertiary education in the region. In 1982, the diocesan synod resolved to establish a university, and with assistance from experts like Prof. Bibens (RIP) and a seven-member curriculum committee, the initial foundation of the university was designed.

Although the idea was briefly delayed following Bishop Bamunoba’s retirement in 1996, it was revived by Bishop Magambo, and the university officially commenced operations in 2005. AWU evolved from an institute into a full-fledged university and, on 27th June 2016, received official recognition from the National Council for Higher Education, obtaining its operating license.

Ankole Western University | AWU Alumni

Life at AWU is vibrant and inclusive, welcoming over 1,300 students from across Uganda and beyond. The campus offers a dynamic environment where students collaborate, innovate, and flourish academically and socially. There are more than six clubs and student associations, allowing students to explore interests such as Ankole culture, inter-faculty competitions at Sheema Stadium, football, and research activities. The campus provides excellent facilities, including high-speed fiber optic internet, fostering both academic and extracurricular engagement.