Bukenya Hakim, a Master of Science scholar at Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) facilitated through Subproject 2 (Improved Mechanisms for Climate Change Adaptation for Sustainable Food Production for Small-Scale Farmers), went on a life-changing Erasmus+ exchange to Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) in Belgium from September 2024 to January 2025.
The program offered Hakim an opportunity to deepen his research expertise, engage with global scholars, and experience life in a multicultural academic setting.
“The exchange significantly transformed me both academically and personally. It pushed me beyond my comfort zone and expanded my worldview,” Hakim noted.
His goals were to communicate directly with his supervisors, Prof. Hervé Vanderschuren at KU Leuven and Prof. Matthieu Kervyn at VUB, complete his master’s research, and gain insight into project coordination. The structured academic environment at VUB, combined with rigorous coursework in Terrestrial Ecology and Agroecology, provided an ideal environment for advancing his thesis. Throughout the exchange, he successfully completed both courses and submitted his dissertation.
Cultural and social immersion enriched Hakim’s experience in addition to his academic studies. With the help of his landlord and Ugandan colleagues, he explored Brussels and other parts of Belgium, including a memorable tour of the Port of Antwerp and festive events on the Grand Place. He also attended the Young Researchers Overseas Conference, where he presented a poster about his research and networked with scholars from around Europe.
Reflecting on the journey, Hakim expressed heartfelt gratitude to those who made the exchange possible, including Prof. Grace Kagoro, Prof. Matthieu Kervyn, and Ms. Shilah Niinye, whose assistance was invaluable throughout both the application and stay.
Despite obstacles such as high living costs, language barriers, and initial social isolation, Hakim emerged more resilient and professionally prepared. “I’ve learned not only academic skills, but also life lessons that I’ll apply,” he said.
As he returns to Uganda, Hakim encourages other students to pursue similar opportunities: “Have a clear plan, be open to learning, and enjoy the entire experience.” Every moment of growth is worthwhile.
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