SUDANESE COMMUNITY HONOUR KIU CHAIRMAN DR . HASSAN BASAJJABALABA FOR CHAMPIONING MULTICULTURAL EDUCATION

By Felix Oketcho

Throughout history, wars, economic crises, and natural disasters have forced millions of people to flee their homelands, seeking safety and stability in Uganda hence Uganda has emerged as a global leader in refugee hospitality, hosting over 1.7 million refugees and asylum seekers.

This makes Uganda the largest refugee-hosting nation in East Africa and sixth globally. Among these displaced populations, more than half originate from South Sudan and Sudan, with recent conflicts pushing an additional 61,409 Sudanese refugees into Uganda since April 2022.

Despite its progressive open-door policy, Uganda faces significant challenges in accommodating the constant influx of refugees. Many arrive in desperate conditions, grappling with trauma, and lack access to essential services such as healthcare, food, and education.

Amidst these challenges, Kampala International University (KIU) has stood out as a transformative force, offering a beacon of hope through its inclusive and multicultural approach to education.

KIU, the largest Private University in East Africa, has firmly positioned itself as a leader in addressing the needs of displaced communities. With campuses in Kampala, Ishaka-Bushenyi, and an affiliate university in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, KIU’s mission transcends borders, focusing on empowering Africa’s next generation of problem solvers. Its commitment to inclusivity has particularly resonated with the Sudanese refugee community.

In a groundbreaking initiative, KIU has recruited over 135 Sudanese professors, doctors, and teaching staff across diverse disciplines such as medicine, pharmaceutical sciences, engineering, applied sciences, social sciences, and law. This effort has created a nurturing academic environment, empowering Sudanese professionals and students to thrive. KIU now holds the distinction of being the leading university in Uganda for hosting Sudanese scholars, an accolade that underscores its dedication to multicultural excellence.

To further strengthen its support for displaced communities, KIU established the KIU Desk for Supporting Sudanese Refugee Programs (KIUDSSR) under the visionary leadership of its Chairman of the Board of Trustees (CBOT), Dr. Hassan Basajjabalaba. This initiative provides scholarships and grants, offering Sudanese students and staff an opportunity to rebuild their lives and achieve their dreams. Dr. Ahmed Abdelrahman, a distinguished Sudanese professor at KIU, highlighted the transformative impact of these efforts, saying:
“KIU has not only given us access to education but has embraced our culture, providing a home where we can grow professionally and contribute meaningfully to society.”

The culmination of these efforts was celebrated during KIU’s 30th Graduation Ceremony on November 23, 2024, where the Sudanese community honored Dr. Hassan Basajjabalaba with a prestigious Shield of Honor. This heartfelt gesture recognized his unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive academic environment and supporting Sudanese refugees. Speaking at the ceremony, Dr. Basajjabalaba expressed his gratitude:
“This honor is a reflection of KIU’s values and mission. At KIU, we believe education is a universal right, and we will continue to create opportunities that empower all communities to excel. This recognition inspires us to achieve even greater milestones in building a brighter, more inclusive future.”

KIU’s contributions extend beyond academics. Its Western Campus is home to the Kampala International University Teaching Hospital (KIUTH), which provides critical healthcare services to vulnerable populations, including refugees. By integrating healthcare with education, KIU ensures that the needs of marginalized communities are addressed holistically. This comprehensive approach has solidified its reputation as a university deeply committed to societal impact.

KIU’s multicultural engagement also fosters socio-cultural integration, strengthening ties between Ugandan host communities and the Sudanese diaspora. Sudanese teaching staff at KIU have become ambassadors of this collaboration, contributing to the university’s academic excellence while promoting cultural understanding. Their efforts have transformed KIU into a vibrant hub of knowledge and diversity.

The recognition of Dr. Basajjabalaba during the graduation ceremony was a testament to KIU’s enduring legacy as a catalyst for change. Sudanese students, alumni, and staff lauded the university for its role in transforming their lives and creating opportunities that many had thought impossible.

As KIU looks to the future, its commitment to inclusive education and innovation remains steadfast. The university’s leadership in addressing regional challenges through education serves as a powerful example of how institutions can drive social progress. KIU’s story is one of resilience, compassion, and the transformative power of education—a story that continues to inspire and uplift communities across Africa and beyond.