Uganda is set to make history this week as Makerere University officially launches Lusoga language teaching during the International Mother Language Day celebrations. The event, organized by the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, in collaboration with Makerere University, will take place on Friday, February 20, 2026, at the Main Hall. The theme for […]
Uganda is set to make history this week as Makerere University officially launches Lusoga language teaching during the International Mother Language Day celebrations.
The event, organized by the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, in collaboration with Makerere University, will take place on Friday, February 20, 2026, at the Main Hall. The theme for this year is “Languages Matter: Harnessing technology to document and develop Uganda’s indigenous languages.”
Minister of State for Gender and Culture Affairs, Peace Mutuuzo, said the celebrations underscore the importance of teaching pupils in their mother tongue for quality learning and cultural preservation. Pupils in Uganda are taught in their mother tongue until Primary Four, a policy now strengthened with the introduction of Lusoga at university level.
“The event will bring together political and cultural leaders, educators, researchers, translators, interpreters, and policymakers to discuss critical issues in language education, cultural continuity, and technological innovation,” Mutuuzo said.
The highlight of the day is the historic launch of Lusoga at Makerere University, which will take place at the School of Languages, Literature and Communication. His Majesty the Kyabazinga of Busoga, William Gabula Nadiope IV, will attend as Guest of Honour to witness this landmark moment.
The Ministry acknowledged the support of partners such as the Ministry of Education and Sports, cultural institutions, the National Curriculum Development Centre, and Makerere University for providing curriculum, teaching materials, and resources to promote Lusoga.
“This launch puts Lusoga on the academic map, ensuring the language thrives in education, culture, and national development,” the Minister added.
Uganda’s multilingual landscape, with over 40 languages, continues to be a source of cultural pride, social cohesion, and identity, and the launch of Lusoga marks a major milestone in preserving and promoting indigenous languages.
