By Shawn Kimuli

KIU, Main Campus - Kampala International University (KIU) has once again demonstrated its commitment to academic excellence and environmental sustainability, as one of its students emerged among the top eight finalists in the Ozone Contest. The contest, organized by the National Ozone Unit under the National Environment Management Authority in conjunction with the Vision Group, aimed to gauge students' understanding of the Montreal Protocol.

The Ozone Contest, which was broadcast on several local television stations, including Bukedde 1 TV, Bukedde 2 TV, TV West, and Wan Luo, saw 37 students from 15 universities in Uganda participate in the competition. The universities that participated in the contest included Makerere University, Kyambogo University, Kampala International University, Victoria University, Islamic University in Uganda, Busitema University, Soroti University, Lira University, Gulu University, Muni University, Kabale University, Bishop Stuart University, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, and Bugema University.

KIU's lead participant, Johnson Adupa Akilis who made it to the finals, demonstrated exceptional knowledge of the Montreal Protocol, achieving a pass mark of 8/10. “To secure a safer future, we must engage the younger generation in protecting our world today. It’s not just the ozone; it’s our zone,” says Johnson. “I therefore feel deeply privileged to gain such knowledge—knowledge I will use to keep the environment safe.”. The student's outstanding performance was a testament to KIU's commitment to providing high-quality education and promoting environmental sustainability.

"We are proud of our student's achievement in the Ozone Contest," said Professor Muhammed Ngoma, Vice Chancellor of KIU. "This achievement demonstrates our university's commitment to academic excellence and environmental sustainability. We will continue to support our students in their academic pursuits and encourage them to participate in competitions that promote environmental sustainability."

The Ozone Contest is an annual event that aims to create awareness about the Montreal Protocol and its importance in protecting the ozone layer. The contest is organized by the National Ozone Unit under the National Environment Management Authority in conjunction with the Vision Group.

KIU's participation in the Ozone Contest is a testament to the university's commitment to environmental sustainability and academic excellence. The university's students, faculty, and staff are dedicated to making a positive impact on the environment and promoting sustainability in all aspects of life.

KIU's commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in its academic programs, research initiatives, and community outreach projects. The university's faculty and students are actively involved in research projects that focus on environmental sustainability, climate change, and sustainable development.

"We are committed to providing our students with a high-quality education that prepares them to address the environmental challenges facing our world today," said Professor Ngoma. "We will continue to support our students in their academic pursuits and encourage them to participate in competitions that promote environmental sustainability."

The Ozone Contest is a significant event that promotes environmental awareness and sustainability among university students in Uganda. KIU's participation in the contest demonstrates its commitment to environmental sustainability and academic excellence.