SCiD recently had the honor of welcoming a group of international students from the Netherlands and Belgium. Their visit was part of an exciting cross-cultural collaboration under the project "Material Matters Uganda", which combined design, culture, and community.

Exploring Materials and Craft

The program offered immersive workshops that highlighted Uganda's rich tradition of material use. Students explored textiles by taking trips downtown to source vibrant fabrics, while also learning from local artisans skilled in mud and wattle construction and bamboo crafting at Amavanda. These workshops encouraged the students to understand the value of local knowledge and sustainable building practices.

Designing for Bayimba Festival

The central goal of the visit was to design and develop a unique installation for the Bayimba Festival held on Lunkulu Island (located along Katosi road). Using methods like the double diamond design approach, the group collaborated intensively, brainstorming and refining their ideas to create an installation that reflected both creativity and cultural context.

Beyond the Workshop

The trip was not all work and no play. The international team also took time to experience the natural beauty of Uganda, including a memorable excursion to Murchison Falls, one of the country's most iconic landmarks. These moments of leisure added depth to the overall experience, giving the students a fuller appreciation of Uganda's diverse offerings.

A Meaningful Exchange

For both the visiting students and the local participants, the program was much more than a design challenge. It was a chance to share skills, knowledge, and cultural perspectives. The collaboration fostered creativity and built lasting connections, making "Material Matters Uganda" a truly transformative experience.