In a vibrant celebration of progress and partnership, the Aga Khan University (AKU) has officially unveiled its new campus in Kampala, marking a significant chapter in the institution’s global mission to advance education and healthcare.
This landmark opening, held on September 11th, 2025, brings world-class learning and medical facilities to the heart of Uganda, promising to empower generations of students and professionals while strengthening the nation’s health infrastructure.
The inauguration ceremony at the state-of-the-art campus in Nakawa was a gathering of visionaries and leaders.
Presided over by Aga Khan University’s Chancellor, His Highness The Aga Khan, and His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the event highlighted the deep collaboration between the university and the Ugandan government.
Also in attendance were Her Excellency the First Lady, Honourable Janet Museveni, Aga Khan University Pro-Chancellor Princess Zahra Aga Khan, and Prince Aly Muhammad Aga Khan.
During the proceedings, His Highness the Aga Khan was honored with Uganda’s highest civilian award, the Most Excellent Order of the Pearl of Africa (Grand Master), recognizing his enduring contributions to the country’s development.
Spanning 60 acres at the intersection of Jinja Road and New Port Bell Road, the campus represents Aga Khan University’s largest expansion since its founding in 1983 and its first full-scale development outside Pakistan.
Designed by the acclaimed architecture firm Legorreta, the facility blends modern innovation with sustainable principles, creating an inspiring environment for academic excellence.
At full capacity, it will accommodate 700 students and 100 faculty members, with dedicated student residences for 164 learners.
The relocation from the previous Gaddafi Road site in Old Kampala was completed in July 2025, after securing all necessary regulatory approvals, allowing the university to fully transition to this expansive new home.
Education lies at the core of this exciting venture. Later this month, the first cohort of undergraduate students will embark on the innovative four-year Bachelor of Nursing Science programme, building on Aga Khan University ‘s proud legacy of training over 1,500 Ugandan nurses to date.
As a private, non-denominational institution, Aga Khan University emphasizes quality teaching, cutting-edge research, and community service, fostering leaders who will drive positive change in healthcare, education, and beyond.
Dr. Joseph Mwizerwa, Aga Khan University’s Associate Vice Provost for Uganda, shared his enthusiasm: “This campus will enable us to collaborate closely with local communities, conduct joint research, and deliver impactful services in partnership with Ugandan institutions.”
With a strong network of alumni already holding key roles in healthcare, media, education, and government, and over 7,000 Ugandan educators benefiting from Aga Khan University ‘s short courses, the university is poised to deepen its positive influence across the region.
Complementing the academic offerings, the campus inauguration also kicked off construction of the 101-bed Aga Khan University Hospital, Kampala.
This facility will provide advanced medical care to Ugandans right at home, while serving as a vital training ground for the next generation of healthcare specialists.
As part of the broader Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), which operates five hospitals and nearly 100 clinics across East Africa, caring for over 1.5 million patients annually, the new hospital will integrate seamlessly into this robust healthcare ecosystem.
The land for both the campus and hospital was generously provided by the Government of Uganda, with construction funding supported by His Highness the Aga Khan, donors, and the Government of Germany’s BMZ and KfW, alongside backing from the East African Community.
This project traces its roots back to a shared vision articulated by the late His Highness the Aga Khan IV and President Museveni, emphasizing public-private partnerships that deliver real-world benefits.
Groundbreaking for the campus occurred in April 2023, attended by the First Lady and Princess Zahra Aga Khan, setting the stage for this triumphant opening just over two years later.
The event was livestreamed globally via Aga Khan University’s digital platforms and Nation Media Group, allowing a worldwide audience to witness this moment of inspiration.
As Uganda’s capital buzzes with anticipation, the Aga Khan University Kampala campus stands as a beacon of opportunity.
By nurturing skilled professionals and enhancing healthcare access, it promises to contribute meaningfully to East Africa’s growth and well-being.
For students, faculty, and communities alike, this launch opens doors to a brighter, more connected future.
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