Background of African Rural University (ARU)

African Rural University (ARU) is a pioneering, value-based institution dedicated to empowering women and fostering rural transformation in Africa. Founded on the foundation of the Uganda Rural Development Training Programme (URDT), which has over 25 years of successful rural development work, ARU aims to produce professional change-makers who address the unique challenges of rural communities.

ARU’s educational approach encourages a shift in mindset from problem-solving to envisioning possibilities, promoting sustainability and interdependence based on the philosophy of Ubuntu: “I am because you are.” This perspective helps rural populations transition from dependency to self-sufficiency.

The university’s inception began in 2002, and it officially enrolled its first students in 2011 after receiving a provisional license from the National Council of Higher Education. ARU operates in a rural setting to ensure its graduates are equipped to effect meaningful change in their communities.

With a commitment to participatory action research and partnerships with local organizations, ARU is focused on nurturing rural transformation specialists. These graduates are equipped with the skills and values necessary to lead social and economic development initiatives across Africa. ARU embodies a unique educational model that integrates its core values, vision, and mission into all aspects of its operations, measuring success through the positive impact on communities and the empowerment of its students.

Through collaborative efforts with co-creators, partners, and the community, ARU strives to be a beacon of health, happiness, peace, and prosperity on the African continent.