RTE 1 show Nationwide will be airing a documentary about the University. It will be shown at 7:00pm 24th May 2010.
The show will cover the founding of Mountains of the Moon University, showcasing the results of local initiative in Fort Portal, Uganda. It was supported by Irish benefactors and the first Vice Chancellor was Patrick Davey, a former Professor at University College Dublin. Starting in November 2003 with a book of plans and ideas, MMU now has 850 students (2010)
MMU is ‘owned’ by the local communities through the District Councils [different tribes], Churches, including the Muslims, and Community members. Courses and general structures have been designed to facilitate participation by all who have ability even if the schools they went to were inadequate. Unique courses are Public Health and African Studies from an African perspective.
MMU is seen by the locals as the necessary engine for Regional development. As such it is the only ‘private’ University to receive Government money allocated throughout the national budget – recognition of its social and community value.
High quality, hands on, University level education is essential to genuine, long term self generated sustainable development.