A Bachelor of Cultural Heritage Studies (BCH) Programme has been introduced in 4 Ugandan Universities.
Introduction to the Bachelor of Cultural Heritage Studies in Uganda
The Cross-Cultural Foundation of Uganda, with support from UNESCO’s ICH Fund recently completed the implementation of a 2½ year project on “Promoting ICH Education in Institutions of Higher Learning in Uganda.” This project led to the development of an undergraduate course on “Cultural Heritage Studies”, to be taught at 4 participating universities. University staff also received training and a resource book was developed. National and university symposia were held to publicise the course beyond the 4 universities.
Since mid-2017, the 4 universities (Uganda Martyrs’ University, Kabale University, Kyambogo University, and the Islamic University in Uganda) have worked together on this initiative, largely funded by UNESCO, and coordinated by CCFU.
Objectives of the Bachelor of Cultural Heritage Studies in Uganda
The Bachelor of Cultural Heritage Studies programme (“BCH”) is aimed at training learners to safeguard and promote cultural heritage, both intangible and tangible. Considering cultural heritage as a driving force towards sustainable development, the BCH will address areas such as identity and cultural diversity, cultural heritage protection, safeguarding and promotion; as well as emerging contemporary issues in cultural heritage (including decolonisation of minds, stereotypes, and attitudes towards cultural heritage promotion exhibited by the youth).
The necessity for cultural heritage studies arises from the realisation that there is a great need for the development of knowledge and skills, research, and advancement in cultural heritage safeguarding and promotion. 
This necessity reflects the threats that cultural heritage is faced with, despite its potential contribution to development. Increased intercultural contact through globalisation, foreign religions, and other forces of modernity is leading to the erasure of many otherwise important cultural values, practices, and institutions. Studies on cultural issues have gained prominence, partly as a result of these threats.
In the media
The print, broadcast and social media channels have reported about this introduction of the programme. Read these articles in the New Vision, Entebbe News, Campus Times News, Kyambogo University online, UNESCO Site, Chitria.live, Issu.com