Universities oppose Sovereignty Bill

Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) has formally raised concerns about the proposed Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026, joining a growing list of institutions questioning the potential impact of the legislation on academic work in Uganda, reports the Nile Post. The Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026, currently before the Parliament of Uganda, seeks to tighten regulation of foreign influence and financial flows into the country. ‎ Government officials have defended it as necessary to protect national interests and political independence.‎ In a letter dated 24 April, addressed to the Clerk to Parliament, Adolf Mwesige, the university said while it supports government efforts to safeguard national sovereignty, the proposed law could unintentionally disrupt legitimate university functions. ‎MUST noted that as a public institution established under the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act, it carries a mandate that includes teaching, research, innovation, and community engagement. The university stressed that these roles often involve partnerships, grants, scholarships, and collaborations with both local and international actors. ‎The university added that its submission is intended to support the objectives of the Bill while proposing refinements to ensure smooth implementation without undermining higher education. MUST’s position comes just days after academic staff at Makerere University also strongly opposed the same Bill, warning that it could cripple academic freedom and research. ‎Through their umbrella body, Makerere University Academic Staff Association, lecturers last week, argued that the proposed law risks criminalising core academic activities. ‎

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