By Aulah Najjuuka
The bustling vicinity around UCU owes much of its economic vitality to the students of Uganda Christian University (UCU). With the university operating nearly year-round and offering three semesters annually, local businesses thrive as they cater to the steady influx of students.
Unlike most universities in Uganda which run two semesters in a year , UCU’s unique structure sees students attending any two out of the three available semesters. This arrangement ensures a consistent presence of students in the areas around the university which include Wandegeya, Bugujju, Kauga, Kirowooza, and this significantly impacts the local economy.
Accommodation Boom
The first to benefit from the university’s schedule are local accommodation providers. Hostels and rental properties around the university experience a surge in bookings each semester. There are over 50 hostels around the university and with hundreds of students requiring safe and convenient housing, these businesses see substantial income as students secure and pay for their residences in advance. This consistent demand keeps rental prices stable and encourages property development in the area.
“As long as UCU students are on-semester, then we are booked and busy. This enables me and other hostel owners around to make a living which In turn supports our families, so we are really grateful,” said Sharon Atuheire, the Custodian for Precious Girls Hostel.
Retail and Supermarket Sales
Supermarkets and small retail shops also experience a boost. Students need daily essentials, groceries, and personal items which drive sales for these businesses. Supermarkets like Capital Shoppers and local convenience stores see increased foot traffic and higher sales volumes during the academic periods. “Our target market as Wandegeya supermarket is obviously anyone but the students are our biggest market even with other Mukono residents supporting us ; if students are off semester or they don’t support your business you’ll see a real difference in your sales,” said Kemigisha Allen an attendant at Faith Supermarket Wandegeya.
This influx ensures steady business and even allows for expansion to meet the growing needs.
Commercial Services
Financial services in and around the university have flourished due to the student population. Banks, mobile money agents, and other financial service providers witness a steady stream of transactions. For example just inside UCU, there are over 7 mobile money and banking agent stalls. Students rely on these services for fees payments, receiving funds from guardians, and managing their finances. The presence of ATMs and bank branches near the university campus highlights the importance of these services in supporting the student community.
Local Food Kiosks
Local food vendors and kiosks are another group significantly benefiting from the UCU student population. Affordable, accessible food options are a necessity for students, and the vibrant street food scene in the areas around UCU provides just that. Vendors selling fast food, chapatti stalls and other local delicacies see brisk business as students opt for quick, budget-friendly meals.
“ Students always opt for easy and cheap meals, so that means, us as restaurants are in business because some students go ahead and pay or deposit money before hand for a full semester, so that means you are always assured of customers everyday, which couldn’t be possible without UCU,” said Namakula Betty ,one of the proprietors of Wandegeya Restaurant
Transport Services
Boda boda riders, who offer motorcycle services, are perhaps the most visible beneficiaries of the students’ presence. These riders provide essential transport services for students travelling between the university, their residences, and various parts of Mukono. The consistent demand for their services not only provides them with a reliable source of income but also fosters a symbiotic relationship between the students and the local transport providers.
Mubiru Canary, a boda boda rider said that he always makes sure he is packed outside one of the hotels every morning as most students opt for boda bodas while going to campus. “I always make sure by 7:30am I’m outside one of the hostels around, because in just the morning period, you can have almost 10 students to take to campus,” he commented.
As UCU continues to attract students from across Uganda and beyond, the symbiotic relationship between the university and the town of Mukono is expected to grow even stronger, driving further economic development and prosperity in the region.
