CCFU Supports Kyambogo University to revive cultural gala after 2-year hiatus

November 8, 2025 – Kampala, Uganda

After a two-year break, Kyambogo University brought back its much-loved Students’ Cultural Gala, this time in partnership with the Cross-Cultural Foundation of Uganda (CCFU). The vibrant event celebrated Uganda’s rich cultural diversity through performances, exhibitions, and storytelling by students from across the country.

The gala featured students representing a wide range of ethnic communities, including Buganda, Busoga, Tooro, Bunyoro, Ankole, Samia, Lango, Acholi, Teso, Bugisu, Bugwere, Kumam, Bufumbira, Rwenzururu, Karamoja, Sebei, Lugbara, Bunyole, Adhola, and Bakiga, grouped into three clusters: A, B, and C.

Throughout the day, the university’s campus came alive with showcases of traditional food, storytelling, folksongs, and dances, offering a glimpse into Uganda’s diverse cultural tapestry. One of the highlights was the intercultural exchange, where students presented the traditions of other ethnic groups. For example, Batooro students showcased Busoga’s staple foods, while Banyoro exhibited Atapa, a signature dish from Teso. During the storytelling segment, Baganda students narrated Acholi history, and the Banyarwanda retold stories of the Bafumbira—demonstrating a shared appreciation of one another’s heritage.

According to Professor Elizabeth Kyazike, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Humanities, the event was non-competitive, intentionally designed to promote unity and learning rather than rivalry. “After a long pause, our main goal was to rekindle the spirit of togetherness and celebrate the beauty of Uganda’s diversity,” she explained.

The gala attracted a wide audience, including students, lecturers, representatives from CCFU, and media personnel, all eager to experience the celebration of culture and identity.

Through support from UNESCO, CCFU continues to champion cultural heritage promotion in higher education institutions across Uganda. Similar cultural galas have been successfully organized at Kabale University, Uganda Martyrs University (Nkozi), International University of East Africa, and now, Kyambogo University, all aimed at nurturing pride, dialogue, and appreciation of Uganda’s cultural heritage among young people.

The event reaffirmed the power of culture as a unifying force, reminding students that while Uganda is home to many ethnicities, it remains one nation enriched by its diversity.