By
Robert Wanzala
Muni University has officially received a parcel of land within the Ajai Wildlife Reserve from the Madi-Okolo District Council, marking a significant milestone in the university’s development plans. The land, which will be used for the establishment of a Biological Field Station, was handed over in a ceremony held on Wednesday. The ceremony was led by Geoffrey Asea, Vice LC 5 Chairperson, and attended by Assoc. Prof. Clement A. Okia, representing the Vice Chancellor of Muni University.
The acquisition of this land is a key step in Muni University’s goal to expand its research, conservation, and educational programs. Assoc. Prof. Okia expressed gratitude to the district council on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, emphasizing the value of the land for the university’s academic and research purposes.
“This partnership will allow the Local Government to see first-hand the contributions of Muni University in driving national development through teaching, research, and community engagement,” Okia stated during the handover.
The Biological Field Station is intended to become a center for biological and ecological studies, providing valuable data for the conservation of Uganda’s rich biodiversity. The station will offer students hands-on learning opportunities in a natural environment, furthering the university’s commitment to addressing environmental challenges and supporting sustainable development.
Local leaders, including Asea, also expressed strong support for the initiative, recognizing its potential to foster a deeper understanding of Uganda’s wildlife and natural resources. The collaboration between Muni University and the Madi-Okolo District Council serves as a prime example of how educational institutions and local governments can work together to promote sustainable development and community empowerment.
The establishment of the Biological Field Station is expected to create new research opportunities, enhance capacity-building, and raise environmental awareness within the community. It is hoped that the university’s efforts will inspire similar initiatives across Uganda, contributing to the country’s broader goals of environmental sustainability and national development.