Two engineering students from Uganda Christian University are set to gain valuable international experience in Turkey through the Erasmus Student and Staff Mobility Programme.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Aaron Mushengyezi, officiated the send-off ceremony on Tuesday February 24th 2026, emphasizing the programme’s importance in preparing students for the global workplace.
“This exposure transforms you. It takes you out of your familiar environment and broadens your understanding of how the world operates,” Prof. Mushengyezi said.
The selected students, Emmanuel Israel Mukisa and Melissa Muyanga, will spend two to three months at Aksaray University in Turkey, engaging in both theoretical learning and practical/hands-on training. Their experience will include visits to multidisciplinary industries and treatment plants, allowing them to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings.
Since its launch in 2021, the Erasmus programme has facilitated the exchange of at least nine UCU students, alongside several staff members. Dr. Miriam Mutabazi, Head of Research and Innovations, emphasized that the initiative strengthens international collaborations and raises the university’s global profile.
“Our role is to build bridges and create opportunities that allow both staff and students to grow,” Dr. Mutabazi said, encouraging the students to document and share their experiences while in Turkey.
At the Faculty of Engineering, Design and Technology, Dean Dr. Miria Agunyo explained that returning students are expected to conduct knowledge-sharing sessions to ensure the benefits of the programme extend beyond the individuals.
“We expect them to provide at least 12 hours of knowledge-sharing with fellow students. This ensures the impact reaches the broader university community,” Dr. Agunyo said.
Both students expressed excitement about the opportunity and pledged to represent UCU, Uganda and the globe with excellence.
“I am very grateful for this chance. I will work hard, learn as much as possible, and bring back ideas that can benefit our university,” said Emmanuel.
Melissa added, “It is not easy to pursue this engineering course as a female, but this motivates me to persevere and inspire others.”
Parents of the students commended UCU for its holistic approach to education, which combines academic excellence with strong values.
Mr. Michael Dhikusooka, a headteacher at Jinja College School and father to Melissa, said: “I carefully chose this university because it combines accreditation, quality courses, and values. Opportunities like this provide our children with the hands-on skills they need to succeed in the real world.”
Dr. Eva Nampiima Kakonge Baingana, a UCU alumna and parent to Emmanuel, added: “The exposure I received from UCU shaped my professional growth and inspired me to pursue further studies. I trust this institution to do the same for my child and children. UCU not only trains for a profession, it builds values, and that is what makes the difference.”
The Erasmus Student and Staff Mobility Programme provides opportunities for students and staff to gain international academic and professional experience through short-term exchanges between partner institutions.
Compiled By: Andrew Bugembe