CONTACT WITH UGANDANS

Ugandans are one of the most friendly and approachable people in Africa. There are over 30 distinct ethnic groups that inhabit the country and add to the diversity of Ugandan tradition, local art and warm hospitality. Contact with Ugandans begins in the home stays, continues at Makerere University during classes and also during the time students engage directly with local organizations. The field based study and the practicum offer students an opportunity to live and work in a rural Ugandan community where they learn from the locals about their customs and culture.

CULTURAL AND RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

The program includes several field visits to historical and cultural sites, such as Kasubi Tombs, Sezibwa Falls, Kabaka’s Trail and a trip to the Uganda Museum. Students can also get involved in sports and recreational activities such as nature walks, trekking, birds and wildlife watching, white water rafting on the Nile, visits to national parks and trips to the mountains. There are also many things to do around the city, for instance, visiting interesting buildings such as Hindi Temple, Namirembe Cathedral, the Bahai House of Worship and Namugongo Shrine, the site built in remembrance of the 22 Uganda Martyrs. Students can also go to the movies, restaurants, live music performances or theatres, arts and crafts events.

HOUSING AND MEALS

Students reside with host families during the six weeks of courses in Kampala. During the field study portion of the semester, students often arrange to either stay with their host family, at their field study site, in housing with other students in Kampala, or a combination of the three. Breakfast and dinner are provided during the home-stay portion of the semester. Students are also given a modest stipend for lunch during the week.

TRANSPORTATION AND TRAVEL

Students are responsible for arranging their transportation to Kampala. During the home-stay period, students use taxis to get to and from the university for which they receive a stipend. The public transportation in Kampala is chaotic and driving is dangerous. Students may not possess or rent cars and motorcycles.

RELIGIOUS LIFE 

Religion is an important part of the Ugandan culture. About one third of Uganda is Catholic, one third is Protestant and remaining one third is of other religions including Islam, 7th day Adventists, Orthodox faith and Indigenous beliefs.
Students seeking religious services will easily find opportunities and locations for worship. The main Catholic place of worship is the Rubaga Cathedral also known as St. Mary's Catholic Cathedral. This magnificent church stands on a hill overlooking Kampala. Christ the King Catholic Church is another Catholic Church which offers mass in English. Namirembe Cathedral, a Protestant church, is situated on Namirembe Hill just to the west of Kampala city centre and there is also the Kibuli Islamic Mosque located on Kibuli Hill.

HEALTH CARE
SIT provides health insurance for students through AIG International Services.
For detailed information on health guidelines and immunization schedule, please visit the SIT website at: http://www.sit.edu/studyabroad/9990.htm

OTHER LINKS

SIT program in Uganda main page

http://www.resolveuganda.org/

http://www.backpackers.co.ug/index.html

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