Education
Center for Life-Long Learning partners with Love Binti International to develop communities
The Center for Life-Long Learning, under the College of Education and External Studies has partnered with Love Binti International to see to the development of communities. The partnership, culminated into a conference themed “Learning Together, Conversations and Perspectives with NGO and Academic Institutions on achieving Sustainable Development” held at the college premises on Friday August 26, 2022.
The head of the Centre for Life-Long Learning, Mr Joseph Watuleke, welcomed the participants to Makerere University, saying the university was happy to participate in sharing of experiences for development of our communities.
Dr. Twine Bananuka, the Dean School of Lifelong Learning, shared with participants the need for mindset change among the communities.
Dr. Twine defined mindset change as the way people see their intelligence, abilities and personal qualities. For one’s mindset to change, there are several questions that have to be answered. Some of which include why change? From what to what and who holds a better mindset to copy and what should a better mind set look like? According to Dr. Twine, once these questions are answered, then one will easily change their mindset. It is important for one to have a growth mindset. This according to Dr. Twine is a mind which see an opportunity, admire something they don’t have, be curious to find new things, fins solutions to challenges and offer feedback. He shared the Uganda that we all want to have, one increased productivity, equitable distribution of resources, Value-consciousness (justice, cultured, respectful, honesty/no corruption, better livelihoods for all and the ability to tame nature. Mind-set change is a process that we must allow and facilitate to happen if we are to see development in our communities.
Prof. Jer-San Hu, from the Fu Jen Catholic University, Taiwan shared the model that Love Binti International is using to develop communities in Mukono. The model, based on building a sustainable village is grounded in agriculture. The organisation offers training in different agricultural fields such as bird and rabbit rearing, crop farming and animal rearing among other activities. Owing to the lack of liquidity, the communities are encouraged to conduct batter trade. According to Prof. Hu, Love Binti International hopes to grow this model of trade.
The Organisation has also innovated an Air Box to measure the quality of air in the environment. The team identified some of the commonest contributors of air pollution; 1. Using wet wood to cook, poor ventilation and using bad cooking stoves. To this end, the organisation is in the process of building a cooking stove with about 36% efficiency. The team has also partnered with UPEnergy and organisation fostering Sustainable Energy Solutions for Uganda, which is making energy efficient charcoal stoves. The stove according to the CEO, Ms Lafelle Chu, the stove costs Shs15,000, a price thought to be affordable for the rural communities.
To share more experience was Ms. Tina Huang from World Food Programme Uganda. Ms. Huang shared with participants what WFP is doing to build resilience of the refugee communities. She said that owing to the Covid 19 Pandemic which rendered transportation difficult, WFP made a decision to distribute cash instead of food supplies. This they did though Mobile money agents, Creation of a SACCO and village bank. The organisation then went ahead to facilitate the creation of a market in the refugee camp. The market was facilitated with stalls, toilets, hand washing facilities, price standardisation as well as structures. The objective is to provide sustainable access to food in the community and create inclusiveness, efficient and diversified markets with in the host communities. The conference was attended by academia, NGOs and Energy companies among others. The team from Love Binti was led by Ms. Elle Yang.
Love Binti International is operating in different countries such as Uganda, Kenya, Taiwan and Canada. The aim of Love Binti is to provide the startup training to empower women and youths at all levels so that they can self-sustain.
Education
Makerere University Hosts Exchange Students from Norway for Field-Based Learning in Uganda
The Department of Adult and Community Education, under the School of Distance and Lifelong Learning, is currently hosting 17 exchange students from the University of Agder, Norway, as part of a one-month field course. The program, which began with an induction on January 6th, 2025, aims to provide the students with practical learning experiences at both the university and community levels.
Immersive Learning in Uganda
The exchange program is designed to immerse students in the everyday realities of life in Uganda. A highlight of the initiative is a one-week homestay in Mbale, where students will live with local households. This arrangement provides a unique opportunity for the students to experience the cultural, social, and economic aspects of daily life in Uganda, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by the community. Makerere University is partnering with Mission: Moving Mountains, a Christian Organization in Mbale to organize the home stays and coordinate Community Learning
Beyond the homestay, the students will engage in community and household-based learning activities in the Eastern and Northern regions of Uganda. These activities will include interactions with local families, community leaders, and organizations, enabling them to appreciate the intricate relationships between culture, gender, education, and development in Uganda.
This Field Course Program is Coordinated by Dr. Watuleke Joseph and Ms. Nuluyati Nalwadda at the Department of Adult and Community Education and this is the 7th cohort since 2017 with the 2021 conducted virtually due to COVID-19
Induction Ceremony Highlights
The induction ceremony, held at Makerere University, introduced the exchange students to Uganda’s rich cultural heritage and the socio-economic dynamics that shape family and community life. Key sessions included:
- An Overview of Ugandan Culture, which explored traditions, norms, and values.
- Gender, Culture, and Education, focusing on how these intersect to influence marriage and family life in Uganda.
The event was graced by the Dean of the School of Distance and Lifelong Learning, Dr. Harriet Nabushawo, emphasized the importance of international partnerships in fostering cross-cultural understanding and advancing lifelong learning. She remarked:
“This program is a testament to the power of collaboration in education. By bringing students from diverse backgrounds into our communities, we create a platform for mutual learning and cultural exchange. The knowledge gained here will not only enrich the students’ academic journey but also contribute to building bridges between Uganda and Norway. I encourage you to immerse yourselves fully in this experience, embrace the culture, and build lasting connections.”
Dr. Nabushawo also highlighted Makerere University’s commitment to offering transformative educational experiences that extend beyond the classroom, reinforcing the institution’s role as a leader in lifelong learning and community engagement.
She also encouraged them to engage in tourism in an effort to enjoy their stay in Uganda.
The Head of the Department of Adult and Community Education, Dr. Stella Achen. Also welcomed the students to Makerere University and commended the initiative for its focus on community-based learning. She noted:
“This program is unique in its approach to education. By stepping out of the university and into Ugandan households and communities, you are not just learning about our culture—you are living it. I urge you to approach this journey with curiosity, respect, and an open mind. The communities you will engage with have rich knowledge and stories to share. In turn, you can contribute by sharing your perspectives, fostering an exchange of ideas that benefits all parties involved.”
Dr. Achen also commended the households in Mbale for their hospitality and willingness to host the students, underscoring the vital role of communities in creating impactful learning opportunities.
On their second day of stay, the students were guided by the Principal of the College of Education and External Studies, Prof. Anthony Muwagga Muggaga, who shared his vast experience with different cultures in different countries and advised the students to embrace cultural diversity and tolerance, knowing that culture differs from context to context. He also advised them on personal safety and security, noting that while Uganda is a safe country, they should not be found moving alone especially at night as bad people could take advantage of them. He assured them of University Management Support while delivering the greetings from the Vice Chancellor and his deputies.
A Shared Commitment to Lifelong Learning
The exchange program is a reflection of Makerere University’s dedication to lifelong learning and community engagement. It provides a unique opportunity for the students to explore Uganda’s socio-cultural landscape while gaining practical skills that will enrich their academic and professional careers.
As the program unfolds, it is expected to strengthen the partnership between Makerere University and the University of Agder, fostering a legacy of collaboration that benefits students, faculty, and communities in both countries.
Over 240 students graduated with certificates and diplomas from the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) under the Love Binti Program, which offers training in fashion design and hairdressing.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony on December 13, 2024, Mr. Joseph Watuleke, the program coordinator at Makerere University, noted that while the program has provided free training for seven years, this year’s graduates were required to co-fund 50% of their tuition to ensure sustainability. Due to rising demand, the college introduced diploma-level training and plans to expand into other vocational courses.
Preparing Job Creators, Not Job Seekers
As the global focus shifts from creating job seekers to fostering job creators, graduates from the Love Binti Program expressed interest in pursuing higher education to enhance their qualifications. They called for universities to prioritize vocational courses at the degree level, citing the growing youth unemployment crisis.
“Universities are still producing job seekers, leaving many graduates unemployed due to a lack of practical skills,” said Mr. Moses Conrad Yesuanjagala, a fashion and design graduate. “If more students were enrolled in vocational training, they would be job-ready upon graduation.”
The students made this plea during the Love Binti International graduation ceremony held at Makerere University’s Rugby Grounds, where 244 students were conferred ordinary and advanced certificates in fashion and design.
Transforming Dreams into Reality
Since its founding in 2018, Love Binti International has graduated 1,930 students in Uganda in hairdressing and fashion design. Mr. Yesuanjagala, 53, expressed gratitude for the opportunity, sharing how his lifelong dream of becoming a fashion designer came true through the program.
“I’m a father of grown children, but I still pursued this knowledge because the skills are practical and marketable,” he said, urging universities to embrace vocational skilling.
Similarly, Ms. Sarah Apio, a fellow fashion and design graduate, called on her peers to pursue their passions fearlessly. “The world needs your unique perspective, talent, and passion. Don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo and pursue your dreams,” she advised.
Institutional Support and Future Prospects
Dr. Jimmy Tibs Tumwesigye, representing the Department of Adult and Community Education at Makerere, emphasized the need for continuous skilling beyond formal education. He encouraged graduates to form groups and apply for government programs like the Parish Development Model and Emyooga for startup capital.
“Be our ambassadors and train at least five more people. That is how we build a skilled and self-reliant society,” he urged.
Dr. Harriet Nabushawo, Dean of the School of Distance and Lifelong Learning, served as the guest of honor. She encouraged graduates to remain proactive, collaborate, and seek out new knowledge and designs online.
On behalf of Makerere University, Dr. Nabushawo pledged continued support for the program, which has been hosted at the university for seven years.
Founder’s Vision and Sustainability Plans
Ms. Elle Yang, founder and executive director of Love Binti International, shared her vision of empowering African men and women through vocational training to combat unemployment. Initially offering fully sponsored programs, she introduced a co-funding model this year due to rising enrollment.
“Instead of giving you fish, I wanted to teach you how to catch it. These skills, if used well, can change your life,” she affirmed.
-
General1 week agoAdmissions for Diploma Holders under Government Sponsorship for 2025/2026 AY
-
General1 week agoAdmissions for Diploma/Degree Holders under Self Sponsorship 2025/2026 AY
-
Education6 days agoApplication for Admission to Bachelor of Education External (BED) 2025/26
-
Education1 day agoMakerere University Hosts Exchange Students from Norway for Field-Based Learning in Uganda
-
General9 hours ago75th Graduation Highlights