About this Programme
The significance of Agriculture in driving economic growth and development in Uganda and Africa in general has gained renewed attention. This is well reflected in the Government of Uganda National Agriculture policy 2013, National Development Plan II (2015/16 – 2019/20) and the Vision 2040 which collectively provide a framework for a transformed Ugandan society from a peasant to a modern and prosperous country within 30 years. At the Africa-wide continental level, the programme also in line with the Science Agenda for Africa, the Comprehensive Africa Agricultural Development Plan, and the agenda 2063 of the African Union which are all geared towards transforming agriculture as a critical engine from economic growth in the continent. The Faculty of Agriculture and Environment at Gulu University is a key player in contributing to driving these development initiatives through the pathway of human capital development and agro-technology generation. In line with the afore-stated development frameworks, the revised curriculum responds to three key development challenges that have persistently plagued Uganda and other countries in Africa. These are: (i) poverty; (ii) food insecurity; and (iii) lack of employment for the youth. Responding to these challenges will contribute to achieving sustainable development goals number one, two and three. Streamlining enterprise development in the curriculum provides opportunity for moulding the graduate to create his/her own job and provide employment for other youth members of the society. Integrating community engagement will provide opportunity for linking student enterprise development with community agricultural development and as such contribute to poverty reduction and food security improvement in households. A peculiar feature of the revised programme which distinguishes it from other programmes offered in other peer institutions is the emphasis on experiential learning and the integration of community engagement and practical enterprise development in student training.