By Spy Uganda Correspondent
In a bold move aimed at expanding its global footprint and strengthening its financial sustainability, Summit International Institute has appointed Bishop Joshua Maponga as its Vice Chancellor for Collaboration, Linkages & Fund Mobilization. The appointment, confirmed in a formal letter dated June 9, 2025, follows a rigorous selection process led by the Institute’s Board of Governors.

According to the letter signed by Samuel Irungu Njau, President of the Board of Governors, Maponga’s appointment is effective June 10, 2025, for a five-year term ending June 9, 2030. His new role will be based at the Institute’s Head Office in Bujumbura, Burundi.
“It is with immense pleasure that the Board formally offers you this position… We are confident that you are the ideal candidate to drive this critical portfolio forward and significantly elevate the Institute’s global standing and sustainability,” the letter reads.

Bishop Maponga’s mandate will include spearheading international academic collaborations, forging partnerships with governments, industries, NGOs, and educational institutions, and leading the design and implementation of a comprehensive fund mobilization strategy.


“Crucially, you will be responsible for securing significant financial resources, grants, and endowments essential for the Institute’s ambitious growth plans, research initiatives, and infrastructural development,” the letter continues.

In his new role, Bishop Maponga will report directly to the Chancellor/President and collaborate with other Vice Chancellors, Deans, and Department Heads. The Institute expects him to bring visionary leadership to the Collaboration and Fund Mobilization Directorate, including:
- Setting ambitious but achievable targets,
- Fostering a high-performance culture, and
- Upholding the highest standards of ethical practice in all partnership and resource acquisition efforts.
“Your success will be fundamental to realizing the Institute’s strategic objectives of enhanced global visibility, academic excellence, and long-term financial resilience,” said the Board.
The appointment marks a strategic shift in the Institute’s leadership as it works toward becoming a preeminent international institution of higher learning and research. The Board emphasized its full commitment to providing Rev. Maponga with the tools and support needed to succeed.
“We are excited about the energy, expertise, and global perspective you will bring and look forward to your impactful contributions,” Njau concluded.
Bishop Maponga is expected to formally accept the position by signing and returning the appointment documents by the stipulated date. Once confirmed, the Human Capital Department will oversee the onboarding process.
The appointment is seen as both a recognition of Maponga’s influence across Africa and the Diaspora, and a strategic move by Summit International Institute to position itself as a hub of global academic collaboration and resource innovation.