By: Mutalib said Farah 

When I left home in 2023 to begin my Master of Public Administration and Management at Kampala International University (KIU) in Uganda, I knew I was stepping into something new but I didn’t realize just how deeply this journey would shape me.

Living away from home came with uncertainty. A new country, new people, new systems. But with time, Uganda and KIU opened their arms to me, and what began as unfamiliar slowly turned into a second home.

A Taste of Uganda

Food was one of the first ways I connected to the culture. I still remember my first rolex, warm chapati wrapped around eggs and vegetables, prepared right on the street. It was quick, tasty, and became my go-to comfort food. Then came matoke, beans, posho, and fried fish, each with its own flavor and story.

Eating Ugandan food wasn’t just about satisfying hunger, it was about learning the rhythm of daily life here. It brought me closer to the people and reminded me that even far from home, I could find comfort in something as simple as a shared meal.

Culture in Full Color

One of the most powerful moments I experienced was the KIU Cultural Gala. Students from all over Africa and beyond came together to showcase their traditional dances, clothing, music, and food. Flags flew high, drums echoed across the campus, and every corner was alive with celebration.

That day, I saw not just diversity, but unity. We were different, yes but we were all proud of where we came from. Being part of that reminded me that living away from home doesn’t mean losing your identity, it means sharing it and learning from others.

Laughter Without Borders

Campus life also came with laughter, especially through student comedy and drama. From jokes about hostel life to playful impersonations of professors and national stereotypes, students used humor to bridge cultural gaps. I remember laughing until my sides hurt during some of the performances.

In those moments, we were just students, forgetting stress, forgetting deadlines just enjoying life together. It reminded me that joy doesn’t need translation. It’s human.

Academic Growth and Purpose

Of course, at the center of my journey was learning. The Master of Public Administration and Management program was demanding but incredibly rewarding. I gained new knowledge about policy, leadership, and governance but more than that, I learned how to think critically, speak confidently, and lead with purpose.

KIU taught me the value of hard work, late nights of research, and the importance of collaboration. I was surrounded by ambitious students, each with their own story, their own dreams, and that inspired me to push myself even harder.

Now, as I approach my graduation scheduled for Saturday, 26th July 2025, I reflect on how far I’ve come.

Living away from home has been one of the most powerful experiences of my life. It wasn’t just about distance—it was about discovery. I discovered new cultures, new friends, new strength within myself. I discovered what it means to truly grow.

KIU has given me knowledge, memories, and a part of myself I didn’t know I had.

And for that, I will always be grateful.