BANGALORE: Every year hundreds of students from African countries like Uganda, Nigeria, Somalia, Ivory Coast, Kenya and other neighbouring countries come to India with a hope not only to pursue higher education but also to shape their career in various fields. Bangalore being the silicon city, accommodates expats from different parts of the world. There are many expats in the city to study as well as work, but one can see many tourists too exploring the city.
When city express interacted with some students, Joseph Katumba and Ssekamatte Andrew from Uganda, spoke about their love for India and their pleasant and unpleasant experiences in the city.
Joseph Katumba, who is pursuing a post-graduation course at Jain University said, “I had to leave Uganda as my mother insisted me to do so. She wanted me to study in India especially in Bangalore as it is the IT hub of the world.”
Joseph who is a BCA graduate from Garden City College explained that it is cost-effective to study in India as compared to other African countries or European and American nations.
He said, “It is not only the cost of education but even the cost of living is too high and this is because of the corruption and anarchy in Africa. Initially I did not know about the diverse culture and multiple languages spoken in India. Later, I learnt that Indians treasure their culture and we should respect it. Today, I can speak a few sentences in Kannada and also a little bit of Hindi. I have learnt to greet people and wish them, which makes me feel good.” These expats from Uganda also consider the city to be safe for students. Ssekamatte Andrew, a BBM final year student studying at the Garden City College, said, “From a very tender age I had a passion to study in India, as I had read a lot about the country. My dream to pursue education in the country has come true today. Language is not a problem in Bangalore as most can communicate with us in English. We have also made efforts to learn a few words which are used on a day-to-day basis. Bangaloreans are a helpful lot when there is need.” He further added, “There are some instances when we had to face unpleasant experiences like differences in the price for the commodities we purchase etc. But, overall it is a pleasant experience to be in this country. Weather conditions in India is similar to that back home making us feel comfortable.”
These expats from Uganda miss home-cooked food, as they also fail to find the restaurants in the city that can serve Ugandan food.