A delegation from Kyambogo University recently held a three-day learning visit to the Uganda Rural Development and Training Programme and African Rural University in Kagadi District, in a bid to deepen their understanding of transformative, community-cantered education models.
The visit was anchored on studying the URDT/ARU Education Model, which is grounded in the Visionary Approach to Education, a framework designed to nurture visionary leaders and change agents capable of driving sustainable transformation in rural communities.
During their stay, the delegation engaged with URDT/ARU leadership, faculty, and students through a series of discussions, interactive learning sessions, and field visits. These engagements provided an in-depth perspective on how the institution integrates leadership development, systems thinking, and experiential learning into its academic and community outreach programs.
A key highlight of the visit was field exposure in Muhorro Town Council, where the team interacted with community-based training centres operated under the URDT Institute. These centres, led by artisans/agribusiness practitioners, are implementing a satellite approach to skills development equipping young women with market-relevant technical, vocational, entrepreneurial, and soft skills. This model is steadily building pathways to self-employment and dignified livelihoods within rural settings.
The delegation also explored the role of Epicentre Managers, graduates of African Rural University who are at the forefront of amplifying change within the communities. Their work demonstrates how visionary education can translate into practical, grassroots transformation by empowering young women and strengthening local economies.
Speaking during the visit, Dr. Francis Garizoka, Fieldwork Coordinator at Kyambogo University, emphasized that the primary goal of the engagement was to gain practical insights into the Visionary Approach to Education. He noted that the team had acquired valuable knowledge in areas such as community engagement, systems dynamics, and team learning.
“We have learned a great deal from URDT/ARU’s unique approaches. It is clear that these models not only educates but also transforms individuals into proactive agents of change,” he said.
Dr. Garizoka further expressed Kyambogo University’s commitment to continued collaboration with URDT/ARU, particularly in advancing academic partnerships and experiential learning opportunities. He commended the institution for its hospitality and reaffirmed their intention to return for further study engagements.
On her part, Madam Muhindo Desire, Dean of Faculty at African Rural University, urged the visiting students to effectively apply the knowledge gained to enhance both their academic performance and personal development. She underscored that URDT/ARU’s mission is cantered on creating lasting change by empowering communities to achieve sustainable development.
Similarly, Mr. Sengozi Bagenda, also a Dean of Faculty at ARU, reaffirmed the University’s openness to partnerships with institutions seeking to advance transformative education and community development. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in scaling innovative approaches that creates change.
Students from Kyambogo University who participated in the visit shared testimonies of the profound impact of the experience, particularly in understanding rural transformation from a practical perspective. They applauded URDT/ARU for the opportunity and pledged to apply the skills and insights gained to contribute meaningfully to their communities.
The visit stands as a testament to the growing recognition of visionary education as a powerful tool for shaping leaders who are not only academically competent but also socially responsive and committed to transforming society.
