Message from the Vice Chancellor of African Rural University

Welcome to African Rural University (ARU), where we proudly uphold our mission of fostering rural transformation and empowering young women as visionary change-makers. ARU is a unique, all-women institution founded upon values that transcend traditional education, preparing our students not only for academic success but for lives of meaningful contribution within the African development context.

Rooted in the solid foundation established by the Uganda Rural Development Training Programme (URDT), our University builds upon 25 years of successful rural development work. The vision of URDT and its 1987 Articles of Association mandate us to cultivate a rural university designed to unlock the potential of our people, strengthening social and economic structures both locally and nationally. We continue this journey, building upon a legacy of partnership, participatory action research, and advocacy for an African Renaissance.

Since our first cohort in 2011, ARU has steadily progressed toward becoming a conduit for transformative change in Africa. Our graduates embody the values of Ubuntu—“I am because you are”—instilling in them a deep sense of interdependence and respect for self, others, and our mother earth. These rural transformation specialists are equipped to inspire others, fostering a mindset shift from dependency to sustainability, and ultimately to a state of interdependence within their communities.

ARU’s model goes beyond traditional problem-solving. It centers around the values, vision, mission, and working premises that define our unique educational approach. This model underpins every element of our academic programs, partnerships, and student engagements, guiding us as we prepare future leaders to impact the rural and national landscape with integrity, resilience, and creativity.

We are immensely grateful to all our partners, graduates, co-creators, sponsors, faculty, and community members for contributing to ARU’s vision. Together, we are creating a new generation of leaders ready to bring health, happiness, peace, prosperity, and freedom to Africa.

Thank you for visiting our website. We welcome you to learn more about our programs, values, and the world of possibilities ARU has to offer.

Dr. Mwalimu Musheshe Ashoka Fellow
Vice Chancellor, African Rural University

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