By Ambrose Gahene,
KAMPALA
Soroti City will this year host the International Museum Day 2024, according to officials from the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities.
Hon. Bahinduka Mugara Martin, the state Minister for Tourism, while addressing Journalists at the Uganda Media Centre on Tuesday, said Uganda will join the global community in this significant event.
“This year’s celebrations, under the theme “Museums shaping knowledge for the future,” are set to take place in Soroti City, Eastern Uganda, on May 18, 2024”, he said.
Minister Mugara said; the theme is derived from the International Council of Museums (ICOM) International theme: “Museums for Education and Research,”.
He said the theme focuses on the critical role museums play as dynamic educational institutions fostering learning, discovery, and cultural enlightenment.
He emphasized that Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4 (Quality Education) and Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure),highlight the transformative power of museums in steering societal advancement, from a peasant economy towards a knowledge-based, innovative future.
“We are pleased to announce that Her Excellency Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo, Vice President of the Republic of Uganda, will grace the event as the chief guest. Her presence further strengthens the government’s firm commitment to promoting cultural heritage and tourism development”, he pointed out.
Ms. Jackline Nyiraayiza, Acting Ministry of Tourism Commissioner for Museums and Monuments, highlighted key activities during celebrations of the International Museum Day to include; a National Cultural Heritage Conference at Hotel Africana in Kampala on 5th May, whose focus will be to strengthen Uganda’s Cultural Heritage for Sustainable Development and Socio-economic Transformation.
“From 10th – 15th May, 2024; we shall carry out Community and schools’ outreaches by Uganda Museum to the Primary schools in the Bukedea, Kumi, Soroti, Ngora and Serere Districts”, she said.
Ms. Nyiraayiza said conducting educational outreach programmes in schools across these Districts, is aimed at instilling an appreciation for cultural heritage and the pivotal role of museums in shaping knowledge for the future.
She also said her Ministry and other sister Agencies; such as Uganda Tourism Board (UTB) will conduct the school’s heritage quiz, competitions for Primary and Secondary schools in Teso sub-region on 16th May 2024.
She added that; the activity is aimed at engaging students in a stimulating quiz competition, challenging them to delve into history, culture, and the significance of museums in society.
She in addition said; the celebrations will be marked by carrying out Corporate Social Responsibility with the Local government and partners in Soroti City on 17th May 2024, where they will undertake various corporate social responsibility initiatives.
She said the corporate social responsibilities are aimed at community development and contributing to the enrichment and well-being of the local community.
“On 18th May, 2024; the main event celebration in Soroti City, will serve as the focal point of the International Museum Day festivities. Exhibitions, cultural performances, and interactive displays will showcase the diverse heritage of Uganda and its significance in our Country’s journey towards a modern society driven by critical thinking and innovation”, she added.
Ms. Lilly Ajarova, UTB Chief Executive Officer, said her organization shall continue to market Uganda’s heritage and tourism attractions on digital platforms and in foreign Cities to attract as many tourists as possible.
She said the International Museum Day celebrations not only commemorates the significance of museums as storehouses of knowledge, but also provides a platform for encouraging dialogue, understanding, and appreciation among communities.
