ARU students and alumnae, Atule Rebecca, the Epic Centre Manager for Mpeefu Subcounty, in a group photo with the showcased ARU Education Model.

On May 24, 2024, African Rural University (ARU) students showcased the university’s unique educational model at the International Women’s Day celebrations held at Mpeefu Subcounty in Kagadi District. The theme of the event was ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress.

ARU students presented several aspects of the university’s innovative approach to education, including The ARU Education Model, The Creative Process, Learn, Work, and Earn program and Traditional Wisdom Specialists Work

The students were led by Guild President Jackline Katusabe and accompanied by ARU Faculty Dean, Dr. Jerome Ssengonzi.

ARU students, Staff and Alumnae interacted with over 100 community members and encouraged them to enroll their daughters at ARU while emphasizing the uniqueness of ARU Education. ARU is currently accepting applications for the August 2024/2025 intake for its Bachelor of Rural Development and Bachelor of Sustainable Agriculture programmes.

ARU Students with the Creative Orientation during the Exhibition

Minister’s Remarks

The Guest of Honor at the International Women’s Day celebrations was Ms. Ruth Nankabirwa, the Ugandan Minister of Energy and Mineral Development. In her speech, Minister Nankabirwa thanked women for driving development in Uganda

She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering women and supporting their economic success adding that; the people of Kagadi will enjoy free connections for electricity starting with residents near powerlines.

“You people don’t have to worry, across the country we have new free connections of 68,000 households, Kagadi inclusive. More dams are being put up including one in Muzizi near here, so power issues will be addressed,” Nankabirwa noted

ARU Guild President’s Message on Women’s Day

In her message for International Women’s Day Celebration, ARU Guild President Jackline Katusabe commended Kagadi District for organizing the celebration and honoring women’s achievements. She emphasized the critical role of empowering women, particularly for the advancement of girl child education.

Ms. Katusabe also stressed the importance of the government’s role in creating opportunities and resources for girls’ education. However, for women’s progress, she cited the importance of transparency and accountability in government efforts, adding that corruption remains a significant barrier to girl child development in Uganda, and its eradication is crucial for achieving true empowerment.

From left to right; The Kibaale District Woman MP, Noeline Kisembo Basemera; Janepher Mbabazi, the Kagadi District Woman MP; and ARU Guild President Jackline Katusabe at the celebrations.

Recognition for ARU’s Vice Chancellor

The event also acknowledged the efforts of Dr. Mwalimu Musheshe, ARU’s Vice Chancellor, for his significant contributions to rural transformation in Uganda.

More about International Women’s Day

International Women Day (IWD) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity. Significant activity is witnessed worldwide as groups come together to celebrate women’s achievements or rally for women’s equality