Kampala International University (KIU) has once again reaffirmed its position as Uganda’s leading private university and one of Africa’s fast-rising institutions of higher learning after being ranked the second-best university in Uganda in the latest Webometrics Ranking of World Universities.
The latest recognition highlights KIU’s continued transformation into a research-driven, innovation-focused and globally competitive university, built on strategic investment in academic excellence, technology, infrastructure, partnerships and competence-based education.
The Webometrics Ranking of World Universities evaluates institutions globally based on visibility, transparency and excellence, with a strong focus on research impact, digital presence and contribution to global knowledge.
KIU’s strong performance is anchored in deliberate efforts to strengthen research output, enhance teaching and learning, expand international collaborations and produce graduates equipped with skills required for the changing demands of the global economy.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Muhammed Ngoma said the ranking reflects KIU’s long-term commitment to creating a university that responds to society’s needs through innovation, research and practical education.
“This recognition is evidence of the commitment of our staff, students, researchers and partners who continue to advance KIU’s mission. Universities today must go beyond awarding qualifications; they must generate knowledge, provide solutions and contribute directly to national and global development,” Prof. Ngoma said.
He noted that KIU’s growth has been supported by a strong focus on research excellence, industry relevance and preparing learners for emerging opportunities.
“Our responsibility is to nurture future-ready graduates who are innovative, adaptable and capable of transforming communities. Competence-based education remains central to how we prepare our students for the world ahead,” he added.
The commitment was recently reaffirmed during KIU’s 33rd Graduation Ceremony held at the university’s Western Campus in Ishaka-Bushenyi under the theme “Fostering Sustainable Innovations and Future-Ready Graduates through Competence-Based Education.”
A total of 1,844 students graduated across various disciplines, demonstrating KIU’s continued contribution to human capital development. Among the graduates were 100 First Class degree holders, while 52.6 percent completed programmes in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
The strong STEM representation reflects KIU’s commitment to supporting Uganda’s science, innovation and industrialization agenda by producing professionals prepared to contribute to key sectors including healthcare, technology, engineering and research.
The ceremony attracted senior government officials, legislators, diplomats, university leaders, parents, alumni, development partners and members of the public in a celebration that highlighted the critical role of higher education in driving Uganda’s transformation.
KIU’s continued rise in global rankings has also been supported by an expanding research footprint. The university recorded more than 3,500 research publications this year, with nearly half published in high-impact international journals, strengthening KIU’s visibility and contribution to global academic knowledge.
The university’s Western Campus continues to play a central role in advancing health sciences education, medical research and healthcare innovation, complementing the Main Campus in Kansanga, Kampala, as KIU grows its influence across Uganda and the wider region.
Chairman Board of Trustees, Al Hajj Dr. Hassan Basajjabalaba, said the recognition confirms the university’s founding vision of creating a globally competitive institution that transforms lives through education.
“When we started KIU, our goal was to build a university that expands opportunities, empowers young people and contributes to Africa’s development. Today’s achievements show what is possible when there is consistent investment in people, infrastructure and innovation,” Dr. Basajjabalaba said.
He added that KIU will continue strengthening its academic environment through investments in facilities, research capacity and strategic partnerships.
“Our focus is the future. We are building an institution that will continue serving generations by producing graduates with the skills, knowledge and values needed to create positive change,” he noted.
As KIU marks 26 years of impact, the latest Webometrics ranking adds to a growing record of achievements that demonstrate the university’s journey from a national institution into a competitive regional academic powerhouse.
Guided by its motto “Exploring the Heights,” Kampala International University continues to advance excellence, innovation and transformation while contributing to the future of higher education in Uganda, Africa and beyond.
