Yesterday, February 19 2024, Nkumba University played host to a delegation of academicians from Pädagogische Hochschule Vorarlberg (PHV), Austria.
Led by Prof. Sandra Berret, the head of the International Office at PHV, the delegation included Claudia Zeppetzauer, Simone Naphegyi, Thomas Schroffenegger, and Dr. Karl Pebock.
The team was here as part of a collaborative effort initiated by Dr. Esther Namugumya during the Africa-UniNet meeting in 2022 at Egerton University-Kenya, where she proposed a partnership for a study exchange program.
The Delegation engaging in a dialogue with Prof. Jude Lubega
Prof. Sandra explained that the purpose of their visit was to establish a strong rapport with Nkumba University and gain a comprehensive understanding of the institution before formalizing any engagement, ” It is also prudent for us to understand the institution before any engagement, and that is why we are here.” Said Prof. Sandra.
The team assessed the feasibility of a study exchange program by engaging with students, surveying learning and teaching facilities, and interacting with lecturers.
A courtesy visit to the Vice Chancellor’s office was also on the agenda, where Prof. Jude Lubega expressed gratitude to the delegation for choosing Nkumba University and assured them of his full support. “Thank you for choosing Nkumba University out of the many options at your disposal, I will be rooting for this until we have it running.” Said Prof. Jude. He also commended Dr. Esther for her role in initiating the collaborative discussions.
The Delegation attending a language class.
As part of their itinerary, the delegation attended a language class conducted by Madam Mpasa Deborah, which gave them a firsthand experience of the university’s academic environment.
Pädagogische Hochschule Vorarlberg (PHV), Austria, is a non-profit public higher institution located in Feldkirch, dedicated to teacher education.
Dr. Esther Namugumya emphasized that the collaboration aims to explore potential partnerships in international mobility for students and staff, with a specific focus on joint projects in Early Childhood and Primary education. The team will further engage with Nkumba University’s School of Education to foster meaningful collaborations in these areas.
