Florence Githinji, a quality assurance officer and part-time lecturer at Clarke International University in Uganda finds herself at the crossroads of varied academic realms.
Through a captivating interview, she shares her story, effortlessly merging academia with cultural assimilation and professional triumph. Within the heart of Clarke International University, Florence navigates her way through lesson plans, offering insights into the institution’s diverse academic programs. The university encompasses four schools, covering public health, allied health sciences, nursing, and business. Florence with a background in clinical medicine strived to achieve a master’s degree in development studies.
Beyond academic achievement, Florence chooses to extend her stay in Uganda, enticed by the countless opportunities in clinical medicine. Balancing her roles as a clinician and a student pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Health Management, she paved the way for a smooth transition into her current position as an assistant quality assurance officer. Florence serves as a prime example of the potential for personal and professional development within Uganda’s diverse educational landscape. In truth, one cannot disregard Florence’s genuine fondness for Uganda.
The idea of “buy Uganda and build Uganda” resonates strongly with Florence, who not only embraces the local culture but embraces it wholeheartedly. Initially, she experienced cultural shock, particularly regarding the act of kneeling. However, as time passed, she came to understand its importance as a gesture of respect, highlighting the significance of cultural integration for acceptance within the community.
Florence openly discusses the obstacles she faced, particularly the resistance towards kneeling. This serves as a gentle reminder that every journey comes with its own set of challenges. Nevertheless, her ability to overcome cultural differences serves as a testament to the adaptability needed when exploring foreign lands.
In her journey towards success, Florence shines as the General Secretary of the Ugandan University Quality Assurance Forum. Despite her prestigious role, she manages to balance it with her pursuit of a PhD, embodying dedication and achievement. Florence extends an invitation to her fellow Kenyans, encouraging them to explore the abundant opportunities available in Uganda, whether in education or career development.
Florence encourages Kenyans to discover the hidden gems nearby, highlighting the unexplored possibilities in their immediate vicinity. Florence’s narrative serves as proof that triumph doesn’t always reside in faraway places. By venturing closer to home, individuals might stumble upon opportunities that were always within arm’s reach.
