KIU, MAIN CAMPUS - On Monday, January 27, 2025, Kampala International University (KIU) welcomed a delegation from Utrecht University, The Netherlands to discuss potential collaborations.

The team of three; Prof. Dr. Bruce Mutsavairo, Dr. Gerrit-Bartus Dielissen and Dr. Ester Driel were received by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Muhammed Ngoma, the DVC Research, Innovation, Consultancy and Extension (RICE), Prof. Regina Idu Ejemot-Nwadiaro, the DVC Finance and Administration, Dr. Mundu Musafa, DVC Academic Affairs, Dr. Jacob Ashibi, and the Campus Administrator, Ms. Christine Ainebyoona.

The purpose of the visit was to explore areas of mutual interest, including staff and student exchange programs, grant partnerships, and research initiatives.

During the meeting held at the Senate Boardroom which had in attendance Deans, Principals, Deputy Principals and Associate Deans from various Colleges and Schools, Prof. Ngoma expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, saying, "With you on board, we know we shall win some grants and do research that will benefit us all globally."

In a presentation, Dr. Mustafa shared an overview of KIU campuses, research and publications, teaching sites, staff and student welfare programs.

In response, Prof. Gerrit-Bartus Dielissen highlighted the shared vision of both institutions to give back to society. He praised KIU's innovative approach to having hospitals adjacent to teaching sites. "Therefore, also by having these gatherings and meetings, we get feedback loops and an insight of what we are doing well and what we can improve", he said.

Prof. Dr. Bruce Mutsavairo, Chair of Media, Politics & the Global South at Utrecht University, emphasized that the visit was a personal mission to empower African scholars. "We are not here to teach but rather to learn from you and to bring African and European students together. Africa is being rediscovered. There is a lot that is not known about Africa in Europe, the stereotypes and misconceptions," he said, adding, "Africa is not a dumping ground, but rather full of talent and lots of opportunities that we need to take advantage of."

Dr. Ester Driel from Utrecht University expressed her institution's eagerness to collaborate with KIU, focusing on mutual exchange and research aimed at addressing challenges faced by youth.

The delegates were given a tour of the university premises including; the Centre of Excellence in Entrepreneurship and Innovation, and the eLearning multimedia studio among others. They will visit the Western Campus which has the KIU Teaching Hospital, Medical, Biomedical, Nursing, Allied Health, Pharmacy and Engineering Programmes.

The meeting marked the beginning of a promising partnership between KIU and Utrecht University, with both institutions committed to exploring opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing.