Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) has formally raised concerns about the proposed Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026, joining a growing list of institutions questioning the potential impact of the legislation on academic work in Uganda.
In a letter dated April 24, 2026, addressed to the Clerk to Parliament, Adolf Mwesige, the university said while it supports government efforts to safeguard national sovereignty, the proposed law could unintentionally disrupt legitimate university functions.
"I write on behalf of Mbarara University of Science and Technology to respectfully submit the University's observations on the Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026," the Vice Chancellor's office stated.
MUST noted that as a public institution established under the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act, it carries a mandate that includes teaching, research, innovation, and community engagement. The university stressed that these roles often involve partnerships, grants, scholarships, and collaborations with both local and international actors.
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"Upon review of the Bill, the University's respectful concern is therefore limited to ensuring that the Bill... does not unintentionally affect lawful public university functions undertaken within approved Government and institutional frameworks," the letter reads in part.
The university added that its submission is intended to support the objectives of the Bill while proposing refinements to ensure smooth implementation without undermining higher education.
MUST's position comes just days after academic staff at Makerere University also strongly opposed the same Bill, warning that it could cripple academic freedom and research.
Through their umbrella body, Makerere University Academic Staff Association, lecturers last week, argued that the proposed law risks criminalising core academic activities.
"We contend that all these possible outcomes are not only unconstitutional. They would also make the work of academic staff and universities criminal and, consequently, impossible," said MUASA chairperson Jude Ssempebwa in a memorandum to Parliament.
The Protection of Sovereignty Bill, 2026, currently before Parliament of Uganda, seeks to tighten regulation of foreign influence and financial flows into the country.
Government officials have defended it as necessary to protect national interests and political independence.
However, critics across sectors argue that some provisions could have far-reaching consequences.
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Legal bodies and civil society organisations warn the Bill may introduce sweeping controls on external funding, including research grants and partnerships that universities rely on.
There are also concerns that stricter financial oversight measures could affect remittances and funding streams that support livelihoods and institutional programmes.
Some political actors have gone further to allege that the Bill could be used to target opposition figures such as Robert Kyagulanyi, a claim government has not formally addressed.
As scrutiny of the proposed law intensifies, universities are now calling for a more balanced approach that safeguards sovereignty without undermining academic freedom, research collaboration, and institutional autonomy.
Parliament is expected to continue receiving views from stakeholders before the Bill proceeds to the next stage.
