Kampala International University (KIU) has retained its position as Uganda’s leading private university after emerging second overall in the latest Webometrics Ranking of World Universities.
The rankings place KIU behind Makerere University, making it the country’s second-best university. Regionally, KIU ranked 49th in Africa and 2,041st globally.
The Webometrics Ranking of World Universities assesses higher education institutions based on visibility, transparency and research excellence, with emphasis on research impact, digital presence and contribution to global knowledge.
Speaking about the ranking, KIU Vice Chancellor Prof. Muhammed Ngoma said the achievement reflects the university’s long-term commitment to research, innovation and competence-based 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,” Ngoma said.
He said the university has prioritised strengthening research output, improving teaching and learning, expanding international collaborations and producing graduates equipped for the changing global labour market.
The ranking comes weeks after KIU’s 33rd graduation ceremony at its Western Campus in Ishaka, Bushenyi District, where 1,844 students graduated under the theme, Fostering Sustainable Innovations and Future-Ready Graduates through Competence-Based Education.
Of the graduates, 100 attained first-class degrees, while 52.6% completed programmes in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), reflecting the university’s focus on producing skilled professionals for Uganda’s industrialisation agenda.
According to the university, KIU has also expanded its research output, recording more than 3,500 research publications this year, with nearly half appearing in high-impact international journals.
Chairman of the Board of Trustees Dr. Hassan Basajjabalaba said the latest ranking validates the institution’s founding vision.
“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,” Basajjabalaba said.
He pledged continued investment in research, academic facilities and strategic partnerships as the university seeks to strengthen its regional and global competitiveness.
