Dear Colleagues,
The issue of Public University in West Nile has surfaced again. It has surfaced
with the lure of money and statements like we are "very late and behind by six
months". I probably could be wrong, but it appears the University issue is
going to put off track the careful and systematic planning of the
organizational activities of the West Nile Foundation.
I think the WNF is still at its early stages and will require the managers of
the organization to reflect on what the Vision and Mission of the organization
is, and develop a clear Strategic Plan before the organization gets into some
of the issues which in my view will off-track the Foundation.
I think we have very many serious issues with respect to the development of
West Nile, including a University in West Nile. However, my humble view and
submission is that for the Foundation to delve into any of the issues, a
priority list of the issues/problems need to be drawn in order to have a
deliberate and systematic attempt to plan and address the issues. Should the
issue of a Public University take precedence over lack of Electricity in West
Nile?? or the issue of BAT manipulation of the citizens of West Nile?? or even
the water supply situation in West Nile?? or the development of Arua Air
Field?? or the pathetic situation of Primary and secondary education in West
Nile?? - these are some of the questions that come in my mind.
I will submit that I still strongly believe that the Public University issue is
a campaign gimmick at this time of elections in the horizon (did I read in
Alaka's message that West Nile has over 150 pledges to be followed, which up
this time were ignored for all these years till now). This issue in my view is
not a serious priority for the people of West Nile, especially when the Primary
and Secondary Schools are in a very sorry state, when Arua is like cemetery at
night (my experience when I was there for a few days in January) when water is
a problem in the town (could not even have water for a shower in the morning in
one of those hotels).
The priority of activities the WNF should consider need be activities that
bring economic returns and improve the living conditions of people in West
Nile. I think a stable supply of electricity, water and the development of Arua
Airfield to International Standards would be great opportunities for the
region. We need provide conditions that can attract serious investments in our
region and I do not think a Public University will spur economic growth in West
Nile as much, though I know the importance of a University Education.
The issue of sending representatives of WNF to the task University Task force
in my view is premature. The Foundation has not drawn up TOR, Vision, Mission
and Strategic plan of operations. We have not yet recruited a volunteer to
Coordinate activities of the organization, we have no bank account and funds to
operate. I do not see any reason to rush to sending emissaries to such an
activity the Foundation in the first place was not associated with.
Sincerely, if there is any money for a University in West Nile, we have Nile
University which has been struggling, why not provide such a fund to support
Nile University or the Islamic University or expand the University at Kuluva.
These are all institutions in West Nile which will benefit the people in West
Nile. Why do need a different University? A University is a University whether
it is run by Moslems, or Christians, religious sentiments should be irrelevant.
Just like Kuluva Hospital or Maracha hospital do not treat people based on
their religious affiliations, the same case should be made with a University.
There is absolutely no need for a Public University at this time in West Nile
when the region is still like in the 19th century in terms of infrastructure
development which is essential for economic development and improving the
living conditions of the ordinary citizens.
Let the Foundation concentrate of collecting membership fee, draw TOR, Mission,
Vision and Strategic Plan (say 5 or 10 year plan) and identify and itemize
priority areas of operation.
Thanks
Vasco Oguzua
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