New students at Nkumba University have been urged to embrace international study opportunities and prepare early to benefit from the institution’s growing global partnerships.
Addressing first-year students, Mr. Charles Kagwa, the Dean School of Commercial Industrial Art and Design, said the university’s internationalization program offers life-changing experiences through student mobility exchanges with partner institutions worldwide. “Student mobility means that with our partner institutions, you can exchange places with students from abroad,” he explained. “We currently have colleagues here from Belgium as part of this program.”
He said the initiative, supported by several global partnerships, runs every semester, with varying numbers of participants. The most prominent exchange, he noted, is the Erasmus+ Program in Europe, which is fully funded by the European Union. “Once you qualify, you get a full scholarship, air ticket, accommodation, meals, insurance, tuition, everything covered,” Mr. Kagwa said. “You also get exposure, enjoy a new culture, and return with broader skills. We’ve been running this program for years without students disappearing abroad, which is a fear some people have.”
He stressed that while the program is open to all, the number of slots is limited. Selection begins at the respective schools, and only students recommended by their faculty are considered. “Don’t come directly to my office saying you want to go,” he cautioned. “It starts with your school. And please, have your passport ready. It’s affordable and will save time once opportunities arise.”
Beyond Europe, Nkumba also has partnerships in South Korea, where students may receive partial scholarships and work while studying. “The information will always reach you,” he assured. “My role is to coordinate after your school recommends you.”
Following the Dean’s address, Mr. Mark, the President of the School of Commercial, Industrial Art and Design, announced an upcoming innovation competition scheduled for 21st September 2025. “This challenge expects you to create or develop an idea in your field, agriculture, climate, education, ICT, economics, health, or others,” he said. “It’s open to everyone, but for design students, it’s a must.”
The orientation session concluded with remarks from other school representatives, encouraging students to make the most of the academic and extracurricular opportunities at Nkumba.
Some of the Erasmus+ students during the orientation// Joshua Baleete
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