New Guidelines Boost Food and Nutrition Internships in Uganda

The Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), in collaboration with Ugandan universities and government bodies, has introduced new guidelines to strengthen internship programs for food and nutrition students. These guidelines are designed to foster closer ties between academic institutions and the food processing sector, particularly small-scale businesses.

The initiative aims to ensure that students gain essential practical skills, real-world experience, and adequate supervision during their internships. This program, which initially began with students from Kyambogo University, is now being expanded nationwide.

GAIN Country Director Damali Sali emphasized that the program allows students to work alongside industry professionals, gaining insights that complement their academic learning. Kyambogo University Vice Chancellor Professor Eli Katunguka highlighted the benefits for students, noting that internships offer exposure to practical work environments not always available within university settings and allow for the acquisition of additional skills through supervised experience.

The Ministry of Education, represented by Commissioner John Ochira, welcomed the guidelines as a solution to the common challenge of inadequate internship supervision. Dr. Peterson Kato Kikomeko, a food and nutrition lecturer, added that the system creates a mutually beneficial relationship, where students gain practical knowledge while industries benefit from their contributions.

These guidelines are expected to better prepare students for the demands of the professional workforce and contribute to the broader goal of promoting access to nutritious food in Uganda.

Source: Nile Post