Umukuka appointed to Ibanda University Council

Bugisu cultural leader, Umukuka Jude Mike Mudoma has been appointed to the Ibanda University Council as a member. Accordingly, Mudoma is expected to represent the interests of all traditional cultural leaders in the education space of the western Uganda-based institution.

Speaking to our reporter on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, Mudoma described the appointment as an opportunity for cultural institutions to be represented, vowing to use his tenure to advocate for the inclusion of culturally related aspects in the academic sphere.

The Umukuka implored institutions of higher learning to embrace cultural knowledge sharing, something he says would help preserve and pass on traditional norms and practices to generations to come.

“Culture should be preserved, and the only way we can achieve this is by including it in the university studies. I welcome the appointment by Ibanda University, and I can say I will serve to pass on traditional knowledge to this generation,” Mudoma said.

Commenting on the matter, Inzu Ya Masaba spokesperson Steven Masiga confirmed the development, stating that Umukuka has already received his commission, signed by Ibanda University vice-chancellor Prof. James Opolot.

According to Masiga, the Umukuka is a scientist by training and holds a master’s degree in forestry from Makerere University, in addition to other qualifications from universities outside Uganda.

Inzu Ya Masaba protocol minister Irene Khainza expressed her excitement for the cultural leader’s appointment. She described the appointment as an opportunity for the Bugisu institution to empower learners with cultural knowledge.