Victoria University yesterday proudly hosted Her Excellency Robie Kakonge, Uganda’s Ambassador to Washington D.C., in a significant step toward fostering international partnerships in higher education. The high-level engagement took place at both the University’s main campus on Jinja Road and its newly established Market Plaza Annex Campus in Kampala.
Vice Chancellor Dr. Lawrence Muganga ( In the Middle ), Her Excellency Robie Kakonge ( On the extreme right ) and the 8th Guild President Khaukha M.A. Emmanuel ( On the extreme Left )
The visit was spearheaded by Vice Chancellor Dr. Lawrence Muganga and the 8th Guild President Khaukha M.A. Emmanuel, who led a delegation comprising members of the University’s Senior Management, Deans of Faculties, Directors, Heads of Departments, and Student Cabinet Members.
Upon arrival, Ambassador Kakonge toured key university facilities including the Innovation Hub, Health and Allied Sciences Labs, the new annex lecture rooms, entrepreneurship incubators, and the modern library spaces that define Victoria University’s cutting-edge approach to learning.
Following the tour, Ambassador Kakonge held a roundtable dialogue with the university leadership team. Discussions focused on potential areas of collaboration, such as:
- Launching academic exchange programs between Victoria University and U.S. institutions.
- Establishing research partnerships in key areas like Artificial Intelligence (AI), entrepreneurship, and public health.
- Developing scholarship and internship opportunities for Victoria University students in the U.S.
- Creating a Diaspora Engagement Program where Ugandans abroad support innovation and mentorship initiatives at the university.
In her remarks, Ambassador Kakonge emphasized the importance of institutions like Victoria University in preparing young Ugandans to compete globally:
"Institutions like Victoria University are central to Uganda’s future. The Embassy stands ready to support programs that empower youth, promote innovation, and extend Uganda’s global networks."
Dr. Muganga reiterated Victoria University’s commitment to “transforming education from theory-based to practical and impact-driven learning,” while Guild President Khaukha M.A. Emmanuel emphasized the role of youth leadership in fostering innovation.
The event concluded with a pledge from both sides to formalize collaborative frameworks in the coming months, positioning Victoria University as a key player in global education initiatives.