The Government of Uganda has secured new scholarships for 200 students who wish to pursue PhD studies at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, located in Durban-Westville, South Africa
Paul Amoru Omiat, Uganda’s Ambassador to South Africa, said that these new scholarships are specifically intended for Ugandan nationals who want to further their education at the doctoral (PhD) level only. He added that some of the successful applicants in the first cohort will begin their studies in February next year.
Ambassador Omiat described this initiative as a major achievement by the Government of Uganda in supporting its citizens to attain higher education and in building a skilled and knowledgeable workforce for the country.
Amoru made these remarks on Monday while attending the graduation ceremony of Dr. Ismael Ochen Ochen, who has completed a PhD in Monitoring and Evaluation at the University of Johannesburg in South Africa. The graduation ceremony took place in Ongoceng Cell, Aderolongo Southern Ward, Bata Town Council, Dokolo District.
While addressing the gathering, Amoru said that his office will work closely with the office of the Won Nyaci of Lango, Eng. Dr. Michael Moses Odongo Okune, so that together they can mobilize and support children who wish to benefit from the education scholarship opportunities.
Amoru further added that his office is also working together with the royal household and the office of King Mswati III, who leads the Kingdom of Eswatini, to ensure that the cultural leaders of Lango Sub-region are facilitated to travel abroad and gain exposure.
This, he said, will help them learn, share experiences, and acquire ideas that cultural leadership can bring back to Lango to support its long-term development.
Dr. Ismael Ochen Ochen said he plans to work closely with the Lango Sub-region cultural institution to place a strong emphasis on education within Lango.
He explained that this will help reduce conflicts within communities, especially among the youth, who often resort to violence and criminal behavior due to a lack of guidance and opportunities.
Professor Constant Okello Obura, a lecturer at Makerere University, advised Dr. Ismael Ochen Ochen to use his academic training and research skills effectively to contribute to community development.
Awitong George Angoli of Arak Ober said that this is the first PhD ever attained in his clan.
Sheik Muhammad Yusuf Balinda, the Supreme Kadhi of the Greater Lango Muslim District Administration, said that the graduation of Dr. Ismael Ochen Ochen is clear evidence that Islam has grown beyond being viewed merely as a religion focused on trade and wealth accumulation.
He explained that in the past, many Muslims prioritized sending their children into business, which caused them to lag behind in formal education. However, he noted that attitudes have now changed, and Muslims are increasingly embracing education by sending their children to school.
The Won Nyaci of Lango, Eng. Dr. Michael Moses Odongo Okune said that pursuing a PhD is extremely demanding and requires great commitment.
He explained that one must choose a specific area of specialization and consistently deepen knowledge in that field over a long period, not merely rely on natural intelligence. He emphasized that this rigorous process is what qualifies someone to earn a PhD degree.
Eng. Dr. Michael Moses Odongo Okune advised cultural leaders who are supporting education in the Lango cultural institution not to discriminate on the basis of religion when awarding scholarships.
Instead, he urged them to remain united and focus on the urgent challenges affecting young people today, particularly drug abuse and crime. He stressed that the government, cultural institutions, and the church must work together to combat these problems.
According to him, Tekwaro Lango has so far supported over 1000 vulnerable students to attain formal education and vocational skills among others.
