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Why learners need to tap into their school’s cultural diversity

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Victoria University students showcase their cultures through music and dance. PHOTO/OWEN WAGABAZA

Unlike schools that are often communal with little diversity especially those in rural schools, many a time, universities attract diverse students from all over the world. 

This, according to Mr. Peter Ssenabulya, a lecturer at the college of humanities and social sciences at Makerere University, it is important that academic institution help students benefit from this cultural diversity.

“Cultural diversity bring value both during school and after school. It prepares students for work in a global society and by experiencing diversity in school, you are laying the groundwork to be comfortable working and interacting with a variety of individuals of all nationalities. Students are prepared for international career opportunities,” Ssenabulya explains.

The need for cultural diversity

Recently, Victoria University Kampala organised a cultural fusion at the university’s main campus under the theme ‘Unity in Diversity; highlighting talent and reflecting diverse cultural narratives.

At the event, students adorned traditional attires, prepared cuisine and performed music from their respective countries notably Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, Sudan, South Sudan, Congo, Ethiopia, Angola among others. 

The event also featured a fashion show showcasing traditional attire from Uganda and other nations.

The Dean of Students at the university, Ms Winniefred Nassiwa explained that the event was aimed at celebrating cultural diversity and providing an opportunity for students to come together and learn from one another through art and culture, music and food.

“The event celebrates a sense of belonging for students where different cultures come together as one community. We want to enrich the students experience so that though they are away from home, they feel the presence of their origin. We encourage unity and diversity and working together because we have different students from different nationalities and cultures,” Ms Nassiwa explained.

In the same vein, Mr Ssenabulya explains that cultural diversity creates spaces for students to discuss different perspectives, learn from peers who come from various backgrounds and share experiences. 

“Studying among people from different backgrounds exposes you to multiple cultural perspectives. Classes feature discussions encompassing viewpoints from people from all walks of life with unique experiences and beliefs, many that may be new to the student and conversations with classmates coming from different countries can encourage you to investigate unfamiliar ideas, think creatively, and consider perspectives you may not have thought about before,” he adds.

Ms Jackie Okot, a higher education consultant with Uniworld Education Consults, a study abroad agent in Kampala explains that educational interactions in culturally diverse schools results in positive learning outcomes, such as students feeling more engaged in class and motivated to study. According to Okot, students who attend culturally diverse schools have strong critical thinking, problem-solving, and writing skills.

“Being surrounded by people from different cultures, backgrounds, and countries can make a student more aware of the social biases and challenges. As they learn from their peers, a student may find that spending time in diverse groups inspires self-reflection and promotes cross-cultural awareness, inclusivity, and collaboration,” Okot explains.

“Understanding different cultures encourages students to become more sensitive to social practices and traditions. This is an important trait to have in any setting, but especially in the students’ future career, as they learn to effectively work with or even lead diverse teams with cross-cultural awareness,” Ms Okot adds.

According to Ms Okot, diversity positively influences one’s cultural identity by exposing them to new perspectives, challenging belief systems, and emphasizing strong communication and collaboration skills.

How can students tap into their schools’ cultural fusion?

Mr Arron Ssemanda, a counselling psychologist explains that whereas one can benefit from the diversity surrounding them unconsciously without any input, students can even benefit more if they put in some extra effort.

“It is important for students to overcome any apprehension they may feel about interacting with individuals of other cultures, backgrounds, and faiths. Make sure you are open to communication with anyone and everyone. It is key, and you will find comfort through it in many ways. It is also important that you are involved with clubs and organizations for these will introduce you to so many new people and as such new cultures and ways of life,” Mr Ssemanda explains.

He however adds that this can more possible is the school supports through diversity events on campuses or just activities that encourage cultural diversity in the classroom. 

“The most diverse universities create places where all students can learn and grow; they expand student awareness, welcome multiple perspectives, and help build social skills.” Says Ssemanda.