Uganda Embassy holds Uganda education expo
The Embassy of Uganda in Bujumbura successfully organized the Uganda Education Expo. In attendance were universities from Uganda, members of the Diplomatic community in Burundi, international organizations, Schools offering Ugandan based curriculum in Burundi and Students at universities in Burundi.
The event officially began with a performance skit by the students from Millenium International School, who presented Ugandan-themed performances.
The Opening Speech made by the Guest of Honor H.E. Amb. Maj Gen (Rtd) Matayo Kyaligonza noted that as the region works towards achieving the sustainable development goals that include ending poverty, quality education, decent work and economic growth, the Government of Uganda has been at the forefront of sharing its success in the education sector and this has enabled it reduce the illiteracy rate and develop its human capital and further collaborate with development partners in different sectors.
Ambassador Kyaligonza highlighted the enhancements that are being realized under Uganda's new curriculum. The Uganda education system is now designed to enable learners to develop skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and communication. The Ambassador thanked Kabale University, Ndejje University, Islamic Call University, Islamic University in Uganda, Metropolitan University, Catholic Martyrs University, Avance University, Millenium International Academy, Claude Intelligent School and Gold Star International for attending the exhibition as presenting delegates.
Dr. Kaaya Siraje, Professor of Business Leadership and Management, the Dean of faculty of Economic and Management Sciences at Kabale University, delivered the keynote speech. He gave an overview of the Uganda education system. He informed the audience that out of 50 universities in Uganda, 11 are public. These institutions offer undergraduate certificates (1 year), diplomas (2 years), undergraduate programs (3-5 years), and post graduate programs including masters and PHD. Professor Siraje reminded participants that Uganda has produced notable alumni who have impacted the region including the late President Julius Nyerere of Tanzania, the late President Mwai Kibaki of Kenya, and former President Benjamin Mkapa of Tanzania. He pointed out that Ugandan universities do not discriminate in terms of fees, where foreign students pay the same amounts in tuition as Ugandans. Professor Kaaya Siraje is a visiting Lecturer at the University of Burundi, where he is overseeing 03 PHD programs as part of an Inter-University Council for East Africa program.
The event would not be complete without testimonies from Uganda alumni who are working in Burundi. Ms. Bella Dusabe, a Burundian who studied at Bugema University is currently working with Ecole Belge, the Belgian International School in Bujumbura. She benefited from learning the language and cultures in Uganda and advised prospective students to seek university accommodation facilities. She attested that the decision to study in Uganda is one of her best life choices, due to the opportunities that opened for her. Ms. Anita kayumbu is a Congolese working in Burundi and began her lower education in Uganda at Greenhill Academy Kibuli, before returning to Burundi where she is enrolled at Summit Institute. She encouraged learners to study in Uganda.
All the visiting universities were given an opportunity to make a presentation about their universities. Of note was Islamic Call University, who offered scholarships to bright but needy students. After guests were entertained to Ugandan cultural music and dances after which, guests had the opportunity to interact with the Universities upon visiting the various expo stands.
The Embassy of the Rep of Uganda intends to hold this event annually as advised by the participating Universities.
