By Fionah Barbra Agaba
The cliché that states that living abroad changes your perspectives and ideologies on life is so true. As an exchange student from Makerere University, my journey to Kristiansand, Norway, was not just an academic venture but also a personal dream come true. From the moment I enrolled at Makerere University, I knew that I wanted to be a part of the exchange programme. I even knew where I desired to go. I was determined to do whatever it took to see my dream achieved. And achieve it I did ladies and gentlemen… Let me tell you! Living in Norway for five months was the wildest bingo card from the universe I didn’t expect (but kind of did because I have a lucky girl syndrome)!
Agaba Fionah after the Orientation day at the University of Agder (UIA)
I was in the cohort Masters of Arts in Gender Studies 2022/2024, and I was nominated by the Gender and Digitalisation (GENDIG) project to participate in the exchange programme that is funded under ERASMUS MUNDUS scholarship.
A surprising welcome
Arriving in August 2023, I channeled my inner Osofia in London as I embarked on a transformative experience that opened my eyes to the beauty of Norwegian culture and its progressive gender equality policies that are at the forefront of global standards. Breathing in the fresh chilly air the night we arrived shocked my system quick and I knew I was a million miles away from Kampala’s kafufu (dust). Finally, my sinuses were catching a break. Kristiansand, located in the southern part of Norway is its fifth largest city and is a popular tourist destination due to its picturesque coastline and rich cultural heritage. Kristiansand's name has its roots in its rich history as a strategic port city dating back to the Viking age (and no, Ragnar Lothbrok wasn’t around these parts). Its reputation for having the best ice cream in the world was an added bonus that made my stay even sweeter.
Fiona Hiking on the Odderøya Island
Today, with an estimated population of 115,569 and an urban density of 13,000 people per square mile, it is a vibrant cultural hub. The blend of modernity and tradition offer a unique experience for visitors like me. I won’t lie, I was a bag of emotions the first few weeks. I missed home. I missed the scorching sun (wild, I know). I even found myself missing those random dogs barking in the neighborhood because Kristiansand is a quiet city. But I loved how different my new environment was. Gone were the chaotic boda-bodas; instead, I found myself navigating a labyrinth of orderly buses and meticulously timed trains. I was also taken aback by the reserved demeanour of the Norwegians. An extrovert by nature with a bubbly personality, my attempts at striking up lively conversations with strangers were often met with polite smiles and awkward glances (you get used to the staring on the bus too). However, this didn’t stop Kristiansand’s tranquil serenity from captivating my heart in ways I never imagined possible.
Bystranda (a beautiful sandy beach with breathtaking views of the North Sea), Kanonmuseet/ Cannon Museum (a museum dedicated to the military history of Kristiansand) and Odderøya Island’s scenic views of the surrounding fjords, walking trails and lighthouse were my favorite places of solace whenever I felt homesick. For moments of reflection, Kristiansand Dumkirke/ Kristiansand Cathedral with its magnificently stained-glass windows offered the perfect space for that. However, I must say I never got used to the sun setting at 9pm during autumn and 4pm in the winter. Or the way the weather would be extremely cool but the sun out and bright (which I learned to appreciate because winter taught me a lesson!). The contrast between Norway's chilly winter and Uganda's consistently warm climate couldn't have been more pronounced.
Learning new ways of looking at gender
Studying at the University of Agder as a Gender Equality, Management and Global Development student was a dream opportunity. The education system in Norway is renowned for its high quality and emphasis on critical thinking, which challenged me to expand my perspectives and deepen my understanding of gender issues in a global context. My perceptions across cultural, academic, social, and political realms were challenged within this short time. Its equality system is among the most progressive in the world, with policies and laws that promote equal opportunities for men and women in all aspects of life. As a student, I couldn't help but draw parallels between Norway's system and the socio-cultural landscape of my homeland. While Uganda has made significant strides in advancing equality, there is still much work to be done. By adopting some of Norway's laws and policies, such as mandatory paternity leaves and gender mainstreaming in education, Uganda can pave the way for a more equitable society where women and men have equal opportunities to thrive.
Agaba attends a Christmas dinner party organized by a classmate
Despite the initial cultural differences, I quickly found common ground with my Norwegian peers through shared interests and mutual respect. Making friends became an enriching experience that broadened my horizons and allowed me to see the world through different lenses. I went from the “Monday to Monday” party scene where bars don’t close till the last person leaves, to pregaming (that process of drinking alcohol prior to attending a social event), karaoke nights with curfew and riding electric bulls in sports bars. Pfft! The curfew! Now, as a Ugandan, you know it is simply unacceptable to leave before the DJ starts playing his reggae set (if you know, you know) but as the time went by, I started appreciating the quaint café dates and cosy gatherings.
Appreciating diverse experiences
Besides the social events, I enjoyed attending out of school activities like the Ta en affects med oss (Book of Stories) exhibition under the Stemmene Art and Theatre Workshop that featured immigrant women from 15 different nationalities provided invaluable insights into the challenges and triumphs of integration in Norwegian society. Hearing the women’s stories and sharing our experiences helped create a sense of solidarity and empowerment among us. It was inspiring to witness how these women found their footing in a new culture while preserving their identities and contributing to their communities.
Agaba Fionah with friends at the Ta en affects med oss (Book of Stories) exhibition
Reflecting on my exchange experience, I am filled with immense gratitude for the chance to fully immerse myself in Norwegian culture and academia. My time in Kristiansand solidified its position at the top of my dream destinations bucket list. I am deeply thankful to the School of Women and Gender Studies at Makerere University, as well as the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Agder, for granting me this incredible opportunity. And last but not least, I’d love to thank me! I put in all the hard work and effort to maintain my grades that were a part of the qualification process and yes, you still have to excel at the university you exchange to as well. Simultaneously, I could credit my go-for-it attitude towards my goals and dreams. Amidst the chaos of academia, I never lost sight of my dream (to visit Norway) and with a heart full of courage I applied for what I called “my life alignment moment”. When the opportunity presents itself, go for it. As long as you have been preparing for its arrival, it will be yours.
Armed with my newfound academic insights, enhanced research abilities, and a sharpened gender perspective, I am committed to advocating for and contributing meaningfully to the advancement of more equitable and effective policies, laws, and interventions that will enhance the well-being of women in Uganda.
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