Ugandan Academics Urged to Leverage Technology for Heritage Promotion

Academicians have been called upon to embrace modern technologies as a key strategy for documenting and popularizing Uganda’s rich intangible cultural heritage. Professor Julius Kwetegyeka, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Kyambogo University, emphasized that technology is crucial for reaching younger generations and promoting cultural tourism.

During the launch of a book titled ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage Practice, Inscription, Preservation and Resilience in Uganda,’ Professor Kwetegyeka highlighted the importance of using tools like documentaries and social media. He argued that these platforms offer wider accessibility compared to traditional print media, enabling the promotion of heritage sites and practices that can significantly boost tourism and national income, drawing parallels to Egypt’s successful heritage-driven tourism.

Dr. Spire Ssentongo, a Senior Lecturer at Makerere University, echoed these sentiments, urging scholars to consider alternative dissemination methods beyond academic writing. He advised academics to make their research relevant and accessible by using simpler language and engaging on social media platforms where communities are actively present.

Dr. Ssentongo also stressed the importance of academics citing each other’s work to build a stronger foundation for Ugandan and African heritage studies, advocating for telling Uganda’s story authentically. The book itself, a collaborative effort by various Ugandan universities and supported by the Cross Cultural Foundation of Uganda (CCFU) and UNESCO, aims to promote Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) as a cornerstone of national identity and sustainable development.

Ms. Barbara Babweteera, Executive Director of CCFU, further advocated for increased government prioritization of cultural and heritage studies in educational curricula. CCFU’s partnership with four universities to introduce a Bachelor of Heritage Studies program is a step towards developing Afrocentric academic materials specific to Uganda’s context. The book features diverse chapters, including those on culinary traditions like Luwombo and indigenous bone-setting practices, showcasing the depth and variety of Uganda’s cultural legacy.

This initiative seeks to foster dialogue among academics, policymakers, cultural custodians, and students on safeguarding and integrating ICH into university programs. It also acknowledges the contributions of institutions, communities, and researchers in documenting and sustaining these vital heritage practices.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)