On August 20, 2024, Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) held an orientation program for its international students. The Interact Africa program, supported by the Pharmabiotrac project and UCoBs Project, facilitated the orientation to ensure a smooth transition into the new academic environment and culture.
According to the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Celestino Obua, the orientation program aimed at Providing essential information, offer students vital information about the university, its policies, procedures, and resources, including academic requirements, housing, healthcare, transportation, and safety guidelines.
Prof. Obua also believes that orientations address Cultural Differences Build Community and Support Networks creating  opportunities for students to connect with peers, faculty, and staff, fostering a sense of belonging and support.
During the event, MUST welcomed 26 international students, including 11 undergraduates and 15 postgraduates from Burundi, DRC, Ethiopia, India, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Somalia, South Sudan, and Tanzania.
Key Remarks:
- Dr. Martha Kyoshaba Twinamasiko (Academic Registrar) welcomed the students and encouraged them to embrace the university’s culture.
- Dr. Casim Tolo (INTERACT Project Leader) provided an overview of the project and advised students to reach out to leaders for support. He urged the students to always reach out to them in case of inquires.
- Sheila Ninye Twinamasiko (International Relations Officer) conducted an orientation presentation on university administration, public safety, and academic resources. She emphasized the need to know which office handles what and encouraged the students to always reach out to these offices she pointed out the open door policy at MUST .
- H.E. Daisy Arinda Kankiriho (Guild President) shared insights into student affairs and available resources.
Counsel Timothy Ndiana Mugumya (Senior Legal Officer) provided guidance on legal policies and guidelines.
- Madam Amina Akasa (Office of the Resident State Attorney Mbarara) discussed strategies for navigating legal challenges.
- SP Norman Kukunda (Human Rights and Legal Officer) presented on common legal pitfalls, community interactions, and emergency response procedures.
The orientation program was moderated by the University Public Relations Officer, Angella Nakato Muyingo. She emphasized the importance of such events in making international students feel welcome, informed, and supported.
About Interact Africa:
Interact Africa is an organization dedicated to bridging cultural divides and fostering global understanding. Through various initiatives, it connects individuals from diverse backgrounds and promotes intercultural exchange and collaboration. Its key objectives include facilitating international exchanges, promoting academic collaboration, enhancing cultural awareness, and supporting community development. This year, they have sponsored 7 students to MUST from different countries. As a University we welcome you all , and hope for the best of your stay. We thank and acknowledge other sponsors for choosing MUST.
Succeed we MUST
