Studying in US — protect your dreams, follow rules, come home, build Uganda

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OPINION

By Robie Kakonge

Pursuing higher education in the United States is a remarkable achievement. As Ugandan students studying abroad, you are not just gaining academic knowledge—you are representing your families, your country, and the promise of Uganda on the global stage.

To support your journey, the US Embassy in Washington, DC, in close coordination with the Embassy in Kampala, is launching a year-long engagement campaign beginning in August 2025. This initiative is designed to guide, connect, and support Ugandan students in the United States.

With opportunity comes responsibility

Studying in the US is both a privilege and a responsibility. Many of you benefit from scholarships funded by American citizens, institutions, or the Government of Uganda. For those on Ugandan government sponsorships—fulfil your mission. You were sent to learn, grow, and bring value back to your country.

These scholarships are built on trust and generosity. The best way to honour that is by acting with integrity, complying with the law, and representing Uganda with pride.

We urge all students to fully comply with the terms of their visa. Whether you are on an F-1 visa or another category, it’s critical to understand and respect the legal requirements. Do not engage in fraud of any kind—this includes faking documents, misrepresenting academic status, or working without authorisation. Violations can result in deportation, travel bans, and long-term damage to your reputation.

But the consequences go beyond the individual. Misconduct by a few can harm Uganda’s reputation and jeopardise future opportunities for others. Remember, each of you is an ambassador. Your actions can either open or close doors for fellow Ugandans.

And if your studies get off track—whether due to financial hardship, academic issues, or personal challenges—do not try to stay illegally or live in the shadows. Come back home for a reset. Regroup, reapply, and consider returning the right way. It is far better to restart with dignity than to become an outlaw abroad.

You are not alone

To help you succeed, we’re launching “UgStudentsConnect: Study Safe, Stay Strong.” This campaign will offer tools, resources, and direct support from our embassy teams to keep you on track legally, culturally, and academically.

Here’s how you can stay connected:

Register with the Embassy by emailing Ugstudents.usa@mofa.go.ug or sending WhatsApp messages (only) to +1 (771) 217-6949. Include your name, email, emergency contact, and educational institution.

Campus Outreach: We are partnering with Ugandan student associations and US universities to hold educational sessions, Q&As, and legal/cultural discussions.

Stay Connected: Use Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp (via student leaders), and X (formerly Twitter) to receive updates and support.

We’ll also share real student stories, FAQs, and useful guidance to help you make the most of your experience and avoid common pitfalls.

And when your journey ends—come home

When your academic journey ends, we encourage you to return to Uganda. Our country needs your skills, your leadership, and the global perspective you’ve gained. The knowledge and experience you acquire abroad are most valuable when used to strengthen your community and contribute to national development.

I speak from experience. I earned my undergraduate degree at Arizona State University and my master’s at Columbia University. After graduating, I chose to return to Uganda—the country of my birth. I hope you will also make the same choice.

Let your success abroad be more than personal. Let it be purposeful. Let it serve your community, your nation, and the next generation of Ugandans who look up to you.

Ugandan students in the US are among the brightest and most capable in classrooms today. Protect the opportunity you have earned. Follow the rules. Reject fraud. Preserve Uganda’s reputation. And when the time comes—or if things go wrong—come home, regroup, and build a stronger future.

We are here for you. Stay informed. Stay united. Let’s build Uganda together.

The writer is Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Washington DC Embassy