Metropolitan International University has temporarily suspended its operations to honor the memory of its co-founder and chairperson of the Board of Directors, the late State Minister for Defense in charge of Veteran Affairs, Sarah Mateke Nyirabashitsi.

The decision was announced in a document dated 8th September 2024, signed by Vice Chancellor Dr. Julius Arinaitwe.

The suspension of activities, with the exception of teaching and student registration, will last for the entire week, allowing the university community to reflect and mourn the loss of a key figure whose contributions have been deeply felt across the institution.

In a phone interview, Dr. Arinaitwe emphasized the significant role Sarah Mateke played in guiding and supporting the university.

"Sarah Mateke was a pillar of strength and guidance. Her loss is deeply felt. We have suspended operations except teaching and registration, to allow reflection and mourning," he stated.

Yosam Tumweheisye, the Dean of Students at the Kisoro Main Campus, highlighted the late minister's dedication to supporting students through scholarships under the Bashitsi Foundation Scheme.

He called on government to step in and continue supporting the students who benefitted from her generosity.

"Over 300 students benefit from the Bashitsi Foundation scheme. We assure them the bursary remains," Tumweheisye affirmed.

Gad Nizeyimana, the Guild President of the Kisoro Main Campus, expressed the concerns of students under the Bashitsi Foundation Scheme, who are now uncertain about their future following the founder's passing.

He urged university authorities to provide assistance to these students, many of whom are unable to afford tuition on their own.

Metropolitan International University, which has campuses in Mbarara, Kampala, and Kisoro (the main campus), has been closely associated with the Mateke family.

Dr. Philemon Mateke, the father of the late minister, serves as the university's chancellor, while Sarah Mateke was a key leader and visionary for the institution.

Burial preparations are currently underway at the home of Dr. Philemon Mateke in Nyakabingo village, Chahi sub-county, where mourners continue to gather to pay their respects