JoKUCo

The Josiah Kibira University College was named for the first African bishop of the Northwest Diocese of the ELCT. Many of you know the bishop's son, also named Josiah, who is a Holy Trinity member along with his wife, LuAnn, and three children. 

The original goal of the college was to fill a need for higher level science education. The diocese acquired land just outside of Bukoba, partly donated by a Lutheran congregation there, and built a brand new college campus. In 2012, 380 students enrolled to comprise the first class. Now they have another class of similar size, and the first graduation will take place next year, after the original students have completed their three year degree programs. 

Currently they only offer education degrees but hope to offer programs in science, business administration, and law very soon. 

The provost and one of our hosts is Rev. Wilson Niwagila. He spent a sabbatical in the Twin Cities several years ago and visited Holy Trinity. We frequently sing his hymn, "Come, Holy Spirit, Come" found in the ELW. He and several other staff and faculty shared tea (and treats) with us and shared more about the college during a tour. 

Rev. Niwagila writes in the prospectus, "We can all testify to the wonderful deeds of the Almighty God who guided JoKUCo  to exist and continue to grow. JoKUCo is still very young as compared to other constituent colleges of TUMA, but it is an institution of great hope."

We all agree that JoKUCo is an impressive school with an important mission...and a great name!