In a bid to increase access to internationalized higher education, Kyambogo University has celebrated its 1st ever International Day under the theme, “The Local and Global Nexus; Impact of Internationalization of higher Education on the Job Market and professional Development,” This was held on Thursday 4th and Friday 5th September at CTF auditorium 105 at the University premises.

Kyambogo University celebrates the 1st ever International Day

The 1st ever International Day was celebrated with the purpose to:

  1. To recognize the University’s International Community, that is the international students and staff
  2. To expose students to global career opportunities: Providing insights into various scholarship opportunities available
  3. To promote intercultural understanding: Encouraging interactions among students, organizations, and professionals from diverse backgrounds to foster community and global awareness.
  4. To recognize the University’s International Community, that is the international students and staff
  5. To expose students to global career opportunities: Providing insights into various scholarship opportunities available
  6. To promote intercultural understanding: Encouraging interactions among students, organizations, and professionals from diverse backgrounds to foster community and global awareness.

During her address, the Guest Speaker at the event, Ms. Rabekka Junker from DAAD representing the German Embassy, said that in today’s rapidly changing world, internationalization is more relevant than ever. Universities are no longer confined to the borders of their countries; they are gateways to the world with the potential to shape global citizens who are equipped to navigate the complexities of an interconnected and interdependent world.

She went further to say that Internationalization cannot only broaden our horizons but it can also improve the quality of education, research and innovation. A more global perspective can equip both lectures and students or graduates to be more competitive and be able to make meaningful contributions on a global scale. “An international degree can open the door to a career but in today’s globalized world, it is the additional skills and experience that set candidates apart,” Junker said.

Kyambogo University celebrates the 1st ever International Day
Participants posing for a group photo

Ms. Junker explained the role of foreign languages in shaping opportunities in an interconnected world. She said that language skills are not just an asset but a necessity.

She encouraged students to take full advantage of the international opportunities available at the university and beyond whether through study abroad programs, language courses, or participation in global research projects, these experiences will not only enhance their academic journey but also equip them with the skills and perspectives needed to succeed in an increasingly globalized world.

The Vice Chancellor Kyambogo University, Prof. Eli Katunguka Rwakishaya,

urged the community to embrace their diversity, celebrate differences, and recognize the global community that makes the university so vibrant. He said that International Day is a testament to the University’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and internationalized community. “Through international partnerships and exchange programs, we empower our students to become global leaders,” Katunguka said

Prof. Katunguka also noted that Kyambogo University is determined to have attractive and unique programs to attract international students and enough infrastructure to accommodate students and staff from the global world.

Amy Peterson from the US mission in Uganda asked the students to have a purpose as they study. She explained that what makes the United States of America Universities’ strong is the academic freedom, independence and the connection and links with the Private sector.

The International Day was organized by the International Relations office which is under the Office of the Vice Chancellors and it serves as a point of contact between Kyambogo University, Institutions and Individuals worldwide seeking information on study and Research opportunities.

The role of the International Office is to facilitate the process of internationalization at Kyambogo University by offering technical support to all academic departments and programme coordinators of international initiatives and activities. The office coordinates various international programs such as student exchange programs, faculty exchange programs, joint research projects, and international conferences. It also assists international students with admissions, visa procedures, accommodation, and other support services to ensure a smooth transition and integration into university life.

The Head of International Relations Dr. Judith Irene Nagasha, said that Kyambogo University teaches different international languages that attract students to the university. She recognized the different International Partners that work with the University in students and staff exchange programs. These include the Erasmus+ program, also she noted that currently there are 6 students who have gone to the USA to get exposure and attend different course in regard to internationalization in partnership with the US mission to Uganda.

 

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