Ugandan students in India celebrate Independence Day

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Ugandan students studying in India, under the umbrella of the Association of Ugandan Students in India (AUSI), October 9, 2024, gathered at Marwadi University in Rajkot, Gujarat, to celebrate Uganda’s 62nd Independence Day for the first time in the country.

The group sang the Ugandan national anthem, deviating from the traditional practice of playing a recorded version.

This year’s celebration is a significant milestone in Uganda's history, and the theme “A Recommitment to Secure and Fortify Our Destiny” serves as a reminder of the country's continued efforts to build a better future for its citizens.

In brief remarks, Uganda High Commissioner Prof. Joyce Kakuramatsi Kikafunda emphasized the significance of promoting unity, fostering patriotism, and encouraging cultural exchange among students in India, resonating deeply with the High Commission's goals.

Uganda students studying in India, under the umbrella of the Association of Ugandan Students in India (AUSI) celebrated Uganda's 62nd Independence Day at Marwadi University in Rajkot, Gujarat. (Courtesy photo)

“This event will reconnect our students to their roots, foster a spirit of national pride, and create lasting memories of our shared heritage,” she said, according to a brief shared by students' leaders.

AUSI patron, Rajesh Chaplot, expressed his delight, saying, “I felt extremely happy and proud to be part of this celebration in India, seeing the Ugandan flag flying high on Indian soil. It's an honour to address Ugandan students on this occasion.”

He observed that similar to Uganda, India is a country that values multiculturalism, freedom of speech, and religious diversity, allowing citizens to practice their faith without restriction.

Chaplot noted that India and Uganda share a common history of gaining independence from British colonial rule. India achieved independence on August 15, 1947, while Uganda followed suit on October 9, 1962.

Additionally, Chaplot acknowledged the crucial role of the armies in protecting the borders of both nations since their respective independence.

“Today's wars are fought on multiple non-traditional fronts, including economic warfare, cyber-attacks, proxy wars, disinformation campaigns, economic sanctions, foreign exploitation, social media manipulation, media propaganda, and biological warfare,” he noted.

Chaplot urged the two countries to fortify their defences on emerging fronts, noting that true independence for both nations hinges on achieving excellence in three key areas: health, wealth, and education for their citizens, as well as self-sufficiency in critical sectors of the economy.

He emphasised that Uganda and India must tackle corruption and poverty to achieve independence.

Chaplot stressed, “We need to move beyond symbolic independence and strive for a developed India and Uganda within a decade.”

To support students studying abroad, he suggested that the Ugandan government allocate funds to the High Commission of Uganda in India, ensuring aid for those in distress.

Dr. Derrick Ssebadduka, AUSI president noted that Uganda's Independence Day celebrations aim to unite Ugandan students in India, connecting them to their nation's history.

He also said the event fosters patriotism, love for Uganda, and unity among students and guests from diverse backgrounds, highlighting that despite cultural, linguistic, and religious differences, they share a common citizenship.

About AUSI

Ssebadduka explained that AUSI is a non-profit, non-governmental organization dedicated to uniting Ugandan students studying in India. AUSI's mission is to provide a platform for these students to connect, collaborate, and excel academically, professionally, and culturally.

The organisation aims to facilitate knowledge sharing, internship opportunities, and mentorship programs to cultivate efficient business leaders and professionals with a profound understanding of both Indian and Ugandan markets.