News and Events

IUIU and SENA Foundation Explore Academic Collaboration for Early Childhood Development

• 10th April, 2025 4:05pm

On April 7, 2025, the Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) welcomed a delegation from the SENA Foundation to explore academic collaboration regarding the Centre for Early Childhood Development, which was already established by the foundation. The visit began with a courtesy call at the Rector’s office, where the Rector, Prof. Ismail Simbwa Gyagenda, was briefed by the SENA Foundation delegation led by its Chairman, Mr. Abdullah Caner Akgün.

Following this high-level engagement, a technical meeting was held in the university boardroom involving the Vice Rector for Academic Affairs, Dr. Jamil Semwanga, and other officials from IUIU and SENA. The meeting was convened by the Centre for Capacity Development (CCD).

During the session, Mr. Abdullah, from SENA presented the background of the foundation, established in 2011 and headquartered in Kibuli-Kisugu. He shared that SENA has implemented numerous educational initiatives, particularly targeting the empowerment of women and children through free education and skills training. The newly launched boarding programme at the Centre for Early Childhood Development currently accommodates over 20 students. It includes a demonstration class and curriculum tailored to support early learning and holistic development.

The SENA team expressed interest in formalizing the programme through academic recognition by IUIU—specifically, enabling graduates to receive certificates that are acknowledged in the job market. This collaboration would support the foundation’s mission to enhance access to quality early childhood education.
In his remarks, Dr. Jamil Semwanga commended the foundation's efforts and reaffirmed IUIU’s willingness to collaborate. He emphasized the importance of aligning the programme with national academic standards and advised the SENA team to provide detailed information on learner profiles, curriculum content, and entry requirements.

Key resolutions included drafting a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) by IUIU, nominating Ms. Nassanga Sharifa as the university’s focal point, and arranging a site visit by the Faculty of Education to assess the facility and teaching methods.