A partnership between Iowa State University and Makerere University is fostering cross-cultural learning and expanding global perspectives on agriculture and sustainable development by providing students with hands-on learning and service-learning experiences.
This spring, Lilian Akello, a recent graduate in agribusiness management from Makerere University, is visiting Iowa State as a short-term scholar. Her journey with the program began during a 10-week service-learning experience at the ISU–Uganda Program’s Mpirigiti Rural Training Center in Kamuli, Uganda—an opportunity she describes as transformative.
“Participating in the service-learning program was deeply meaningful because it transformed my academic training into tangible community impact,” Akello said. “Now, being at Iowa State is broadening my perspective on agricultural systems even further by equipping me with practical skills and global exposure.”
During her visit, Akello is exploring Iowa’s agricultural systems through tours of university facilities and engagement with faculty and students. She is gaining insight into agricultural innovation, farm management, agribusiness, and extension services—knowledge she hopes to apply to sustainable agriculture and community-based development in Uganda.
Akello is hosted by Julie Blanchong, associate director for university programs with Iowa State University’s Center for Sustainable Rural Livelihoods.
“These exchanges build cross-cultural competence and deepen understanding of agriculture from a global perspective,” Blanchong said.
Iowa State students travel to Uganda each summer through the Empowering Future Leaders in Sustainable Development through Service Learning in Rural Uganda program. Students collaborate with Makerere peers on sustainable agriculture projects while gaining hands-on experience and cultural immersion.
Reflecting on her experience working on a bi-national team, one of the most important lessons she learned was learning to integrate different approaches to problem-solving.
Akello said, “ISU students often brought structured planning insights, while we contributed local knowledge and contextual understanding—especially when developing recommendations for farmers. “
She added that for Iowa State students, “a major learning was gaining firsthand insight into the realities of smallholder farming systems—understanding resource constraints, cultural dynamics, and the resilience of local communities. It challenged assumptions and deepened appreciation for context-driven solutions.”
By welcoming Makerere students to Iowa and sending ISU students abroad, the partnership fosters a dynamic exchange of ideas, knowledge, and cultural perspectives. These experiences are cultivating meaningful connections, a deeper understanding, and a lasting global impact.
Learn more about Lilian Akello's service-learning experience.