By Edwin Mugula | 07 November 2025 | Econews.digital
In an era defined by technology, connectivity, and the constant flow of information, Kampala International University (KIU) is strengthening its global footprint through a landmark partnership with Utrecht University of the Netherlands. The collaboration is empowering students to become digitally skilled innovators, responsible communicators, and global citizens in a time when misinformation threatens the fabric of truth and learning.
The initiative, themed “Bridging Continents: African–European Youths Collaborating for a Diverse and Digital Future,” brings together students, educators, and researchers from Africa and Europe to explore how education, technology, and communication can be harnessed for progress, integrity, and inclusion.
KIU’S 32ND GRADUATION TO CELEBRATE DIGITAL EXCELLENCE AND INTERNATIONAL REACH
As KIU prepares for its 32nd Graduation Ceremony on Saturday, 29th November 2025, at the KIU Western Campus in Ishaka–Bushenyi, the university is celebrating another milestone in its evolution as one of Africa’s most internationally engaged institutions.
Over 2,500 graduates are set to be awarded degrees, diplomas, and certificates, marking an important moment in KIU’s mission to produce graduates who are not only academically accomplished but also digitally competent and ethically grounded.
This year’s graduation theme reinforces the university’s commitment to truth-based education and innovation-driven learning where technology serves not just knowledge but the integrity of information.
INTERNATIONAL SUMMER SCHOOL UNITES HEALTH, MEDIA, AND TECHNOLOGY
The ongoing International Summer School Program hosted at KIU’s Western Campus in Ishaka remains one of the most exciting outcomes of the partnership. The program continues to attract students from diverse academic and cultural backgrounds who explore the intersection of health, media, and technology through a blend of workshops, fieldwork, and creative projects.
Participants have engaged in sessions on qualitative and creative research methods, digital literacy, health-related misinformation, and podcast production. The approach combines academic rigor with practical creativity, equipping students to use digital platforms for storytelling, awareness, and truth-sharing.
Students conducted fieldwork within and around Ishaka, collecting real-life data that they later translated into podcasts addressing community and health communication challenges. The learning experience was enriched by a field visit to a tea factory and the Kitagata Hot Springs, which helped participants connect classroom learning with cultural and social realities.
The program concluded with students refining their podcast scripts and reflecting on how digital tools can amplify authentic voices and counter misinformation.
“This experience has shown us that digital literacy is not just a skill but a form of social responsibility,” shared one participant.
ENGR. CHRISTINE MUGIMBA: THE TRUTH MUST BE ONLINE
Serving as Chief Guest, Engr. Christine Mugimba, Director of ICT and Research at the Ministry of Education and Sports, urged universities and youth to ensure that integrity remains at the heart of digital transformation.
“The truth must be online,” Engr. Mugimba said. “Technology without honesty leads to confusion. As we digitize learning, we must also digitize truth and ensure that our platforms reflect accuracy, responsibility, and accountability.”
Her remarks resonated with the growing global conversation on misinformation, echoing findings from the World Economic Forum, which lists disinformation among the top global risks threatening trust, stability, and democracy.
UTRECHT UNIVERSITY EMBRACES COLLABORATION AND SHARED GROWTH
Representing Utrecht University, Professor Gerrit Dielissen commended KIU for its leadership and shared enthusiasm for innovation-driven collaboration.
“We are honored to partner with KIU,” Prof. Dielissen said. “Digital learning is the bridge between our continents. Together, we are preparing students who can think globally, act ethically, and create solutions that serve humanity.”
He emphasised that Utrecht University remains committed to building lasting collaborations with African institutions and ensuring that education continues to shape equitable, interconnected, and informed societies.
KIU’S DIGITAL VISION INSPIRES EQUITY AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP
KIU Vice-Chancellor Professor Muhammad Ngoma reaffirmed that the university’s mission is to build a generation of innovative thinkers who use technology to solve real-world challenges.
“We are preparing innovators, not imitators,” Prof. Ngoma said. “Our goal is to produce graduates who can shape Africa’s digital future with skill, confidence, and integrity.”
Through its Digital Innovation Boot Camp and other applied programmes, KIU continues to provide students with mentorship, creativity labs, and entrepreneurship clinics ensuring that they graduate ready to lead and create solutions for their communities and the world.
A FUTURE WHERE DIGITAL MEETS TRUTH
As misinformation and disinformation continue to challenge societies globally, Kampala International University stands as a model of how education can safeguard truth in the digital era. Its collaboration with Utrecht University reaffirms that global partnerships built on integrity, research, and innovation are key to shaping a more responsible digital world.
With every new program and every international partnership, KIU continues to prove that the future of education is not just about being online, it is about being truthfully online.
From Left to Right (Seated): Prof. Sarah Anschütz – Utrecht University, Netherlands, Mr. Ambrose Kibuuka Mukiibi – Board Member, Kampala International University (KIU), Ms. Christine Ainebyona – University Secretary, Kampala International University (KIU), Dr. Ester Driel – Utrecht University, Netherlands, Engr. Christine Mugimba – Director, ICT and Research, Prof. Gerrit Dielissen – Utrecht University, Netherlands, Prof. Muhammad Ngoma – Vice Chancellor, Kampala International University (KIU), Prof. Regina Ejemot-Nwadiaro – DVC–RICE and KIU Coordinator, International Summer School, Ms. Mary Nanyomo – Programs Director, Junior Achievement Uganda (JAU)
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