News and Events

IUIU Hosts Ramadhan Convention to Address Rising Family Breakdown Among Muslim Communities  

• 19th March, 2026 9:04pm

The Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) hosted the 39th Annual Ramadhan Convention from March 14th to 15th, 2026, at its main campus in Mbale.

The two-day event brought together religious leaders, academicians, and students from various higher institutions, including IUIU, Kyambogo University, Busitema University, Kumi University, Soroti University, Uganda Technical College, Mbale, and Mbale School of Hygiene, among others, to discuss the growing challenge of marital discord and family breakdown among Muslim communities.

The convention was graced by H.E Sheikh, Dr. Shaban Ramadhan Mubajje, the Mufti of the Republic of Uganda who was the chief guest and Hon. Huda Abason Oleru, the Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs, as the keynote speaker, focused on the theme: “Rebuilding Strong Families: Addressing the Challenges of Marital Discord and Family Breakdown among Muslim Communities.”

Speaking during a panel discussion, Mr. Sewankambo Hamza, IUIU University Secretary, said the theme prompted reflection on the current state of Muslim families globally. He noted that while families have historically been guided by strong values and norms, modern-day challenges continue to weaken the institution of marriage.

“There are clear challenges within our families today, but also gaps in how we are addressing them,” he said.

IUIU Rector, Assoc. Prof. Ismail Simbwa Gyagenda described the theme as timely, citing real-life experiences that mirror the broader societal trend. He contrasted a long-standing marriage within his family with a recent case where a union collapsed within two months.

“This reflects what is happening in our society. How does a marriage break down within two months? That is supposed to be the beginning phase,” he said.

Panellists identified a lack of preparedness among young couples as a major cause of marital instability. They noted that many young people enter marriage with unrealistic expectations influenced by social media, rather than a clear understanding of responsibilities and Islamic teachings.

Prof Airat .A. Sulaiman, a counselling expert and Head of Department, Educational Psychology IUIU, emphasized the importance of pre-marital counselling, saying many couples lack basic knowledge about roles, communication, and conflict management.

Other panellists included Dr. Halima Wakabi Akbar, Director of Institutional Planning, and Imam Albashir, Qur’an instructor, moderated by Dr. Gyagenda Abdulswamad, the Deputy Director of the Directorate of Research, Publication and Innovation, IUIU.

It was noted that many young people go into marriage with expectations but without understanding the responsibilities attached, adding that marriage in Islam requires both rights and obligations.

The discussion also highlighted changing family dynamics, with panellists noting that marriage has shifted from a union of families to a more individual-centred arrangement. While family involvement remains important, excessive interference was cited as another factor contributing to conflicts.

Participants further pointed to the erosion of traditional mentorship structures within communities, which previously guided young couples through marriage.

Religious leaders at the event emphasized that Islamic teachings provide comprehensive guidance on marriage, describing it as a source of tranquillity, love, and mercy.

They urged couples to approach marriage as an act of worship that requires patience and commitment.

The impact of social media was also raised as a growing concern, with speakers warning that unrealistic portrayals of relationships online are influencing expectations among young people.

Stakeholders called for practical interventions, including structured premarital counselling programs, community-based mentorship, and increased engagement by religious institutions, urging collaboration between institutions such as IUIU and community organizations to develop accessible programs aimed at strengthening families.