By Associate Professor Businge Phelix Mbabazi

Kampala International University (KIU) played a pivotal role in shaping my academic and professional journey. Through the KIU bursary and staff development scheme, I was privileged to earn a Bachelor’s in Computer Engineering (2007), a Master’s in Information Systems (2010), and a PhD in Management of Information Systems (2017)—all fully funded.

Beyond academics, KIU nurtured my leadership and administrative skills through key roles: Postgraduate Coordinator (2011-2012): Oversaw postgraduate programs, supervised research, and contributed to curriculum development. Postgraduate Head of Department (2012-2014): Led graduate program design, student supervision, and policy implementation. Faculty Examinations/Results Officer (2009-2010): Managed examinations and academic records, ensuring integrity and efficiency. Systems Administrator (2008-2009): Managed IT systems, optimizing security and operational effectiveness.

These experiences laid the groundwork for my subsequent career at Muni University from 2014 to 2019, eventually leading to my current role as an Associate Professor of Information Technology at Kabale University and Dean of the Faculty of Computing, Library, and Information Science.

In addition to my academic and administrative roles, I contribute to higher education policy and quality assurance as a Programme Reviewer at the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE), an External Peer Reviewer at the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA), and a Member of the Continental Education Strategy for Africa (CESA).

Currently, I am also serving as a Visiting Professor at the University of Juba in the School of Community Studies under the Inter-University Council of East Africa (IUCEA) staff exchange program from March 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026.

The impact of KIU extends beyond my personal achievements—it has transformed my entire family. Today, my family boasts 1 PhD holder, 2 master's degree holders, and 6 bachelor’s degree graduates, all from Kampala International University, all beneficiaries of the KIU bursary scheme, and all fully employed in government institutions.

KIU’s support has not only shaped my career but also empowered my family with quality education and professional success.