The Impact of Tribalism and Colonialism on Education in Uganda

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Abstract

Purpose
Attaining quality higher education in Uganda has been influenced by tribalism and colonialism, which has privileged some Ugandans at the expense of those who are less privileged. However, obtaining a higher level of education is one of the ways by which economic standing can be changed (Erikson and Goldthorpe, 2002; Haralambos and Holborn, 2000; Jenkins, 2011). This study analyzes the divisions and wounds due to longstanding tension resulting from long-term systemic tribalism and colonialism, which must be addressed. Every Ugandan needs to deal with these challenges, promote reconciliation, and plan for a better future.

Theoretical Perspective
Decolonial theory was used to frame this study. It introduces us to think differently by demolishing the tribalistic tendencies and limiting the space of colonial influence. Decolonization is the encounter between two congenitally antagonistic forces that, owe their singularity to the kind of reification secreted and nurtured the colonial situation (Fanon, 2004). Decolonization is truly the creation of a new man (pg. 2). It is through decolonizing the mind that a human being is liberated. Otherwise, independence from colonialism does not necessarily result in, or mean, liberation since colonial subjects remain colonized psychologically (Fanon, 1984).

Methods
A qualitative research design was used to collect the necessary data. This approach allowed participants to express their version of reality as they emerge. Participants discussed the relationship between tribalism and colonialism and their effect on the education system in Uganda. Through interviews, participants also expressed ways to decolonize people’s minds to open academic success to Ugandans from different geographical regions and tribes.

Data sources
Five Ugandans living in the USA who earned a master’s and Ph.D. degrees in Europe and USA participated in one 45-minute in-depth individual interview. They are beneficiaries of the scholarships from different organizations in Uganda and experienced the impact of tribalism and colonialism.

Results
The findings reveal that tribalism in Uganda is real, systemic, and political. Participants pointed out overstaying in the power of leaders from one tribe, lack of robust policies, which enforce accountability in public offices, and rampant corruption and nepotism in public offices. Decolonizing peoples’ minds to focus back on factors that liberate them from tribalism and colonial influence is the new approach required.

Scholarly significance
The results from showed the vestiges of Tribalism and Colonialism should be taught as part of the school curriculum in Uganda to allow conversations, which challenge people to look beyond their tribes and colonial interests like overstaying in power because of the support from colonial masters, which has fueled nepotism. Policies should be put in place to address the challenges of tribalism and colonialism.

Author

• Peter Kaboggoza, Wayne State University