Officials from Dominican University yesterday engaged the Dean School of Social Sciences, Dr. Ann Abaho on what might turn out to be an academic collaboration. Dr. Ann was in the company of Madam Diana Aharimpisya, a Ph.D candidate focusing on social work.
The delegation from Dominican University included Associate Professor Adrian Kok and Kristin Bodiford. The two were accompanied by a team from Health Nest Uganda under the leadership of Mr. Arthur Namara Araali.
The dialogue revolved around potential collaborations between the two institutions, focusing on research within the realm of children and the elderly.
Associate Professor Adrian Kok emphasized that while efforts to address challenges faced by the elderly are exist, the operationalization of certain policies is lagging.
Kristin Bodiford echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of thorough analysis and international research collaborations to effectively address the day-to-day challenges faced by the elderly.
During the discussion, Kristin Bodiford stated, “The elderly are the bedrock of our communities,” underscoring the need for in-depth analysis of trends, policy regulations, and societal responsiveness to old age.
She stressed that purposeful research collaborations among universities can yield significant results.
Mr. Arthur Namara Araali highlighted the opportunity for the two institutions to amplify research efforts, providing alternative solutions to societal challenges.
As a social work Ph.D candidate, Madam Diana Aharimpisya expressed concern about the growing elderly population and the need for a research-based approach to not only bridge generational gaps but also comprehend challenges faced by the elderly.
“This is an opportunity for us to delve into this area. The elderly are significant contributors to the community, and their needs should not be overlooked,” added Madam Diana Aharimpisya, emphasizing the importance of addressing the pressing needs of the elderly population.
Reports from the Ministry of Gende, Labour and Social Development indicate that the world population is steadily ageing, with increases in life-expectancy and falling fertility rates.
By 2050, the number of people aged 60 years and above is projected to be over 2 billion and make up over 21 per cent of the global population.
In Uganda, the population of older persons is expected to cross 6 million by 2050.
In early 2018, the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development (MGLSD) of Uganda commissioned an in-depth situational analysis of older persons to serve as a think piece for protecting and promoting their rights within the country and globally.
In East Africa, the covariate shocks of war, displacement and the HIV epidemic have only compounded the vulnerabilities and lifecycle risks in old age.
Research based approach to these dilemmas may go along way in helping the elderly live a fulfilling life.
About Dominican University:
Dominican University is a US based higher institution of learning highly regarded for its academic prowess and values-based, relationship-centered learning environment.
The University is ranked 11th overall among nearly 160 Regional Midwest Universities and ranked first in the prestigious publication’s list of “Best Value Schools” in the Midwest.
