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Makerere-Uppsala on Track for Institutional Collaboration

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On 29th November 2013, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Professor John Ddumba-Ssentamu hosted a delegation from Uppsala University, Sweden led by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Eva Akesson. The two institutions held a dialogue aimed at expanding the existing collaboration to university-wide institutional model that will encompass the undergraduate, master, postgraduate and research programmes.

This dialogue started in December 2012 when the Vice Chancellor, Professor John Ddumba-Ssentamu led a delegation that visited Uppsala University. Thus the return visit from Uppsala University symbolised the readiness by both institutions to take this collaboration to a whole new strategic direction.

Dr Peter Sundin -Analytical Chemist and Head of the International Science Program, Uppsala University at the dialogue, 29th Nov 2013, Makerere University, Kampala UgandaProfessor Ddumba-Ssentamu, welcomed Professor Eva Akesson to Makerere University together with her delegation comprising Professor Stefan Swartling Peterson, Professor of Global Health (Below); Dr Peter Sundin-Analytical Chemist and Head of the International Science Program (Right); and Ulrica Ouline- Regional Manager Africa/Asia at the International Office.

He informed the guests that Makerere University was established in 1922 and has continued to grow with over 30,000 state and privately-sponsored students pursuing a wide range of disciplines at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The Vice Chancellor noted that the University boasts of a highly qualified and dedicated staff focused on the realization of the Makerere University vision-To be the leading institution for academic excellence and innovations in Africa.  He applauded the researchers at Makerere University for keeping the Makerere banner up, and as such, Makerere University was ranked the fourth best university in Africa in the July 2013 webometric university ranking. He also saluted the Government and People of Sweden for supporting the Makerere University Research Agenda under the MAK-Sida Phase III Bilateral Research Grant (2010-2014).

Professor Stefan Swartling Peterson, Professor of Global Health, Uppsala University at the dialogue, Makerere University, Kampala UgandaCognizant of the internationalization agenda stipulated in the Makerere University Strategic Plan, Professor John Ddumba-Ssentamu informed the meeting comprising Members of Makerere University Management, Principals, Deans and Heads of Administrative Units that he looked forward to a fruitful discussion aimed at cementing the already existing collaborations and staff exchange programmes in the various academic disciplines at both universities.

“I am glad that most of the academicians gathered here have partnered with Uppsala University on different programmes.  We have learnt vital lessons to help us strengthen the institutionalized approach we would like to embrace. Today’s discussion will also bring on board other disciplines/fields in this University. We look forward to collaboration between Uppsala University and the College of Business and Management Sciences as well as the School of Law,” said Professor Ddumba-Ssentamu.

The Vice Chancellor Uppsala University, Professor Eva Akesson (Pictured Below Left showing off her gift from VC Prof. J. Ddumba-Ssentamu) said both universities shared a lot- the vision of Prof. Eva Akesson (L) shows off her gift received from Prof. Ddumba-Ssentamu at the dialogue 29th Nov 2013, Makerere University, Kampala Ugandabeing the best university and the value of academic excellence.  Established in 1477, Uppsala University is the First University in Sweden. It is a comprehensive university, one of the top 100 in the world, has a student population of 40,000 and runs an international Science Programme with universities in the world.

“Uppsala and Makerere have a collaboration that goes way back in different disciplines. We can take another step to deepen our relationships. We do hope that today will formalize the steps for a more comprehensive collaboration between Makerere University and Uppsala University that will lead to signing a Memorandum of Understanding.  If we ask for partnership with Uppsala University on the different programmes, we hope that Makerere University will partner with us,” she said.

The Vice Chancellor, Professor John Ddumba-Ssentamu then opened the floor for discussion:

Mr. Goddy Muhumuza, Senior Legal Officer:  I was at Uppsala for a month’s training on property Rights. I loved the visit to your veterinary farm. It was a good experience at Uppsala.

Dr. John Mango, Deputy Principal, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) (Below Left): CoNAS has since the year 2000 been collaborating with Uppsala University in the areas of pesticides, bio-chemistry. This is outside the MAK-Sida collaboration. Our collaboration has yielded successes in the Department of Mathematics and the International Science Programme at Uppsala University.

L-R Dr. John Mango, Deputy Principal, CoNAS, Prof. J.D. Kabasa, Principal, CoVAB and Dr. Paul B. Muyinda, Head, DoDLL, CEES at the Dialogue, 29th Nov 2013, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda

Professor David Kabasa, Principal, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-Security (CoVAB) (Above Centre):  This collaboration should focus on the transformation of society with a multi-disciplinary approach from universities, fields, community, public and private partners among others.  Through this problem solving approach, we can work together to transform society in Uganda and the region.

Dr. Paul Muyinda Birevu, Head, Department of Open and Distance Learning, College of Education and External Studies (CEES) (Above Right) advocated for collaboration between both universities, as a means of strengthening the capacity on e-learning and pedagogy.

Dr. Vincent Ssembatya, Director Quality Assurance at the Dialogue, 29th Nov 2013, Makerere University, Kampala UgandaDr. Vincent Ssembatya, Director, Quality Assurance (Left): The collaboration of the Directorate of Quality Assurance with Uppsala University has greatly informed curriculum development. We have received immense technical support from Dr. Asa Kettis, Chief Quality Promotion Officer, Quality and Evaluation Unit, Uppsala University

Ms Mary Tizikara, Director-Human Resources advised that in addition to training academic staff, the collaboration should also cater for other categories of staff.  She emphasized the need for capacity building for professional courses, which greatly impact on service delivery.

Mr. David Kahundha-Muhwezi, the University Secretary was optimistic that through this collaboration, both institutions will learn from each other and benchmark good governance practices in higher education.

L-R Prof. Bernard  Bashaasha, Principal CAES and Dr. Hisali Oria, Ag. Principal, CoBAMS, at the Dialogue, 29th Nov 2013, Makerere University, Kampala UgandaDr. Hisali Eria, Ag. Principal, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) (Pictured Right): Reiterated the Vice Chancellor’s earlier call that in the new phase of collaboration should also include business, economics and management academic fields.

Professor Bernard Bashaaha, Principal, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) (Pictured Left):  Appreciating the fact that Uppsala has a passion for physical sciences, he sought further information on the Uppsala’s partnership with the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU).

In her response, Prof. Akesson noted that the two institutions have a longstanding close-knit working relationship and would look forward to incorporating agricultural sciences in the upcoming collaboration with Makerere.

L-R Dean, School of Law, Dr. Damalie Naggita-Musoke and Deputy Principal, College of Health Sciences, Prof. Celestino Obua at the Dialogue, 29th Nov 2013, Makerere University, Kampala UgandaProfessor Celestino Obua: Deputy Principal, College of Health Sciences (CHS) (Pictured Right):  In September 2013, I led a delegation from Makerere University to Uppsala on a staff and student exchange programme. Every year, we have two students and two staff members respectively . It has been a very rich experience. The students are incorporated into the programme, they are graded and marks are fed into the students’ performance. We have thus observed the need for multidisciplinarity research in universities to solve the problems that affect humanity as well as development. I belive this visit will further cement the existing collaboration between both instititions.

Dr. Damalie Naggita-Musoke, Dean, School of Law (Pictured Above Left): We need a strong collaboration with Uppsala.  I would like to know how the School of Law through her outreach programmes in the Human Rights and Peace Centre (HURIPEC) can further champion human rights, democratization and property rights.

In her response, the Vice Chancellor, Uppsala University said: We have a Department of Peace and Conflict Research at Uppsala University and we shall explore this potential.

The two Vice Chancellors then exchanged Souvenirs as a token of rekindling the collaboration spirit.

 

 

Story by:  Ritah Namisango, Public Relations Office
Photos by:  Makerere Public Relations Office

 

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Rt. Hon. Nakadama commends Makerere’s Safeguarding Policy

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Rt. Hon. Lukia Nakadama (4th Left) with University Leadership and Partners after launching the Safeguarding Policy on 4th April 2025. The Third Deputy Prime Minister and Minister without Portfolio, Right Honourable Lukia Isanga Nakadama, has commended Makerere University for crafting a policy aimed at creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all members of the University community. 4th April 2025, Main Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Third Deputy Prime Minister and Minister without Portfolio, Right Honourable Lukia Isanga Nakadama, has commended Makerere University for crafting a policy aimed at creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all members of the University community.

Speaking at the Launch of the Safeguarding Policy today (Friday, April 4,2025) at Makerere University, Rt. Hon. Nakadama, noted that the policy is more than just a document, it represents a commitment to change, a pledge to protect, and a foundation for the future.

“I applaud the Makerere University Council and Management for the openness to acknowledge the existence of safeguarding risks within the institution, and the commitment to enhance the safety and well-being of all Students, Staff and associated stakeholders,” remarked Rt. Hon. Nakadama.

Rt. Hon. Rukia Nakadama signs a dummy of the Safeguarding Policy after its launch. The Third Deputy Prime Minister and Minister without Portfolio, Right Honourable Lukia Isanga Nakadama, has commended Makerere University for crafting a policy aimed at creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all members of the University community. 4th April 2025, Main Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Rt. Hon. Rukia Nakadama signs a dummy of the Safeguarding Policy after its launch.

In her speech, the Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to fostering safer learning spaces in higher education institutions.

“We must collaborate to ensure its (the Safeguarding Policy’s) implementation and effectiveness. I urge all stakeholders, students, staff, Administrators, Partners and Government officials to engage in creating and maintaining a safe University Environment,” Rt. Hon. Nakadama, observed.

Makerere University has a duty of care to do no harm and promote the wellbeing of all students, staff, and other University community stakeholders. It seeks to enhance the learning environment to make it more secure, inclusive, and ethically sound for all stakeholders. In this quest, a comprehensive Safeguarding Policy was developed and approved by the University Council in April 2024.

Rt. Hon. Rukia Nakadama (Right) receives Mak Souvenirs from Mrs. Lorna Magara (Left). The Third Deputy Prime Minister and Minister without Portfolio, Right Honourable Lukia Isanga Nakadama, has commended Makerere University for crafting a policy aimed at creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all members of the University community. 4th April 2025, Main Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Rt. Hon. Rukia Nakadama (Right) receives Mak Souvenirs from Mrs. Lorna Magara (Left).

The Policy is designed to detect, and swiftly act on safeguarding risks; prevent the occurrence of harm; provide mechanisms for reporting all allegations or incidents that have occurred; respond appropriately to all reported incidences; and, continuously monitor, evaluate and learn from practices and experiences of managing safeguarding concerns.

The University Council Chairperson, Mrs. Lorna Magara, pledged total commitment to make sure that the policy does not remain on paper.

“With this policy we reinforce our zero-tolerance stance on abuse and commit to building a community where equality and respect thrive, and where every individual feels seen, supported and secure. Today marks a new chapter. We expect Management to ensure that every Campus member understands and lives out these principles. Violations will be met with strong disciplinary and legal action and survivors will receive the support, care and justice they deserve,” Mrs. Magara, said.

Adrian Bukenya, the Country Director of Mastercard Foundation-Uganda signs a dummy of the policy. The Third Deputy Prime Minister and Minister without Portfolio, Right Honourable Lukia Isanga Nakadama, has commended Makerere University for crafting a policy aimed at creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all members of the University community. 4th April 2025, Main Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Adrian Bukenya, the Country Director of Mastercard Foundation-Uganda signs a dummy of the policy.

Addressing guests, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Vice-Chancellor, reassured that the launch of the Policy is not just a ceremonial event but a call to action. He called upon staff and students to ensure that every member of the University community knows their rights and has access to channels where they can report cases without fear of retaliation.

“Makerere is an equal opportunities institution and we are intentional in maintaining a safe environment for our students, staff and visitors. On the African continent, we are pioneers in establishing the gender mainstreaming policy, the anti-sexual harassment policy, the policy on students with disabilities and others, and I want to assure you Your Excellency Mr. Ssentamu that this policy will be implemented,” Prof. Nawangwe pledged.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. The Third Deputy Prime Minister and Minister without Portfolio, Right Honourable Lukia Isanga Nakadama, has commended Makerere University for crafting a policy aimed at creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all members of the University community. 4th April 2025, Main Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.

In his address prior to the Vice Chancellor’s remarks, H.E. Churchill James Ssentamu, the 91st Guild President had appealed to the University Management, to ensure that the policy does not remain in the filing cabinet but is put into practice. He had also requested Management to use the policy to guide in decision-making, disciplinary action, staff training, and student orientation. Prof. Nawangwe’s response therefore sought to promptly address the Student Guild’s prayer.

H.E. Ssentamu equally lauded the University Management, for developing a policy that aspires to create a safe space for everyone, especially women, students with disabilities, international students, and other vulnerable groups.

H.E. Churchill James Ssentamu enjoys a light moment with officials as he endorses the dummy of the policy. The Third Deputy Prime Minister and Minister without Portfolio, Right Honourable Lukia Isanga Nakadama, has commended Makerere University for crafting a policy aimed at creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all members of the University community. 4th April 2025, Main Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
H.E. Churchill James Ssentamu enjoys a light moment with officials as he endorses the dummy of the policy.

“This policy is a bold declaration that enough is enough. That silence is not an option. That every student matters. That every complaint will be taken seriously. That perpetrators will be held accountable regardless of title, status, or office,” His Excellency, Ssentamu, noted.

“To my fellow students: Safeguarding is not about punishing people; it is about protecting everyone. Speak out against misconduct. Support your colleagues. Educate yourselves about your rights. Use the reporting systems. Let us build a culture of respect,” the Guild President highlighted.

During the launch, students with disabilities, pointed out that with the policy in operation, they feel that Makerere University has created a framework for inclusivity.

Yasin Ikoza reads a braille version of Safeguarding informational materials. The Third Deputy Prime Minister and Minister without Portfolio, Right Honourable Lukia Isanga Nakadama, has commended Makerere University for crafting a policy aimed at creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all members of the University community. 4th April 2025, Main Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Yasin Ikoza reads a braille version of Safeguarding informational materials.

“With the Safeguarding Policy in place, we have not been left behind. We now know where to report when we have challenges and also the MakSafeSpace, the online reporting system, can easily be accessed. We feel we are part of this prestigious Institutions,” Yasin Ikoza, a first-year student Social Work and Social Administration with visual impairement, said.

The MakSafeSpace platform, which incorporates accessibility features for differently abled users, provides a robust and confidential means of reporting any risk or harm that is likely to occur or has occurred during teaching, learning, research, and community engagements. This platform complements the other reporting channels, both digital and non-digital, provided by Makerere University.

Prof. Justine Namaalwa. The Third Deputy Prime Minister and Minister without Portfolio, Right Honourable Lukia Isanga Nakadama, has commended Makerere University for crafting a policy aimed at creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all members of the University community. 4th April 2025, Main Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa.

Prof. Justine Namaalwa a member of the Safeguarding Steering Committee added that an Inclusion and Safeguarding Liaison Office has been established in the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD) to track incidences. She equally requested members of the community to report incidences through the MakSafeSpace and other designated spaces so as to ease case tracking.

“When you report, the incidences will be channeled to the Safeguarding Liaison Office. The University Management is committed to have an annual audit; what is prevailing, what is most occurring, and what has come down. So if you don’t report through designated spaces, University Management cannot have data to act accordingly,” Prof. Namaalwa advised.

Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli. The Third Deputy Prime Minister and Minister without Portfolio, Right Honourable Lukia Isanga Nakadama, has commended Makerere University for crafting a policy aimed at creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all members of the University community. 4th April 2025, Main Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli.

Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, the Dean of Students and Chairperson of the Safeguarding Implementation Committee informed the audience that her team has rolled out sensitization campaigns for both staff and students. The campaigns which began in Student Halls of Residence will proceed to affiliated hostels thereafter.

“The purpose of these sensitization campaigns is to educate students and staff about the importance of the Safeguarding Policy and how to identify, prevent and respond to safeguarding concerns. We have also trained staff and student safeguarding champions and we are confident that these individuals will promote a culture of safeguarding in our University community,” Dr. Kabumbuli added.

Members of Management, Partners and students that formed part of the audience. The Third Deputy Prime Minister and Minister without Portfolio, Right Honourable Lukia Isanga Nakadama, has commended Makerere University for crafting a policy aimed at creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all members of the University community. 4th April 2025, Main Hall, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Members of Management, Partners and students that formed part of the audience.

The introduction of the safeguarding policy aligns with the University’s broader mission to uphold the highest standards of Education and Institutional ethics. With this development, the University reaffirms its dedication to protecting the rights and well-being of all its stakeholders.

Carol Kasujja Adii
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MURBS Reconstitutes Board of Trustees

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The reconstituted Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS) Board of Trustees as of 1st April 2025 from Left to Right: George Bamugemereire, CPA Edna Isimbwa Rugumayo, CPA Francesca Angida Mugyema, Michael Kizito (PhD), Elizabeth P. Nansubuga (PhD), Deus Kamunyu Muhwezi (PhD), and Mr. Joseph Ikarokok. Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS) announces the reconstitution of its Board of Trustees as of 1 April 2025. This follows the Trustee Elections that were held in December 2024 where vacant positions on the Board for Makerere University Academic Staff Association (MUASA), Makerere University Administrative Staff Association (MASA), and National Union of Education Institutions (NUEI) were filled.

On 1st April 2025, the Board held a reorganisation meeting and elected Michael Kizito (PhD) as the Board Chairperson and CPA Francesca Angida Mugyema as the Board Secretary. In addition, the Board confirmed the membership of its standing Committees.

MURBS remains committed to strong governance and acting in the best interest of its members.

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Mak and ACCA Career Workshop: Students tipped on success, professionalism and the future of accountancy

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On Tuesday 1st April 2025, over600 students from the College of Business and Management Sciences convened at Makerere University Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium to participate in the Career workshop that provided an invaluable platform for students to engage with industry leaders, gain insights into career prospects and professional development within the accounting and finance sectors.

Organized by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) in Uganda in partnership with Makerere University Department of Accounting and Finance, School of Business under the College of Business and Management Sciences, the Career workshop also presented a platform to celebrate the academic achievements of the ten (10) Bachelor of Commerce students who graduated with First Class degrees-Honours Division during the Makerere University 75th Graduation ceremony held in January 2025.

Prior to the workshop, the Dean, School of Business, Dr. Godfrey Akileng in an interview with the College’s Communication Office, disclosed that celebrating the academic achievements of the students who obtained First Class degrees would inspire the current students to excel. In addition, Dr. Akileng noted that the presence of graduates who excelled at the Career workshop would lead to networking and peer mentorship possibilities with the current students.

During the Career workshop, speakers from Makerere University and ACCA Uganda re-affirmed their commitment to equipping graduates with the knowledge, skills and tools needed to excel in a rapidly evolving job market.

To understand the future of accountancy, students listened to presentations featuring the relevance of the accounting and finance in today’s job market by Dr. Eric Nzibonera; Insights on the collaboration with ACCA by Ms Charlotte Kukunda; Discussion of the global career opportunities in accounting and how ACCA supports professional development by Ms Jackie Mbabazi; and a keynote speech titled, An exploration of the skills and trends shaping the future of the accounting and finance industries in the 21st Century by Mr. Robert Busuulwa.

Ms Charlotte Kukunda – Country Manager, ACCA Uganda answering questions from students.

In his address, the Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences, Prof. Edward Bbaale acknowledged the School of Business for proritising career talks and mentorship sessions for students.

“To the students, the Career workshop presents you with a chance to envision your career, and what you want to be, or what you want to study,” he said.

The Principal underscored the critical importance of bridging the gap between the academia and industry. He highlighted the instrumental role of partnerships, particularly the collaboration between Makerere University and ACCA in equipping students with globally competitive skills and certifications.

Prof. Bbaale emphasized that in the 21st century, this interface isn’t merely an option but “a necessity,” echoing the sentiments of both the keynote speaker, Mr. Robert Busuulwa, and ACCA partners.

The workshop was well attended, the venue was full house.

He advised students to visualise themselves as “global candidates” and pursue their careers with diligence and passion, taking the lessons from the workshop seriously and seeking continuous professional development. Prof. Bbaale stressed the significance of “building oneself, moulding oneself” through education, training, and experience, advocating for a focus on human capital development over immediate financial gain.

He emphasized the importance of “volunteering to work” in orderto gain experience and build a professional network. He reaffirmed the College’s commitment to strengthening collaborations to ensure graduates are academically competent and well-prepared to navigate the evolving job market.

Dr. Eric Nzibonera, the Head, Department of Accounting and Finance at the College of Business and Management Sciences highlighted the significance of career guidance events for University students. He explained that career workshops provide a valuable opportunity for students to “make a choice about a particular career,” a privilege he noted was not always available to students in the past. Dr. Nzibonera believed the workshop was a chance for students to learn from experienced professionals, guiding them towards informed decisions about their future careers.

Convinced that the workshop presented a golden opportunity to students to learn from experienced professionals, Dr. Nzibonera called upon students to leverage such moments to listen to the respective presenters, prepare to ask questions on professionalism, accreditation and career paths.

Focusing on the relevance of accounting and finance in today’s job market, Dr. Nzibonera reiterated that the accounting profession is very central in the day to day lives of individuals. “Inall realms of business, in whatever you do, you need some scheme or some kind of accounting that works,” he remarked. He noted that this underlines the universal applicability of financial literacy, whether pursuing careers directly related to the field.

Some of the Bachelor of Commerce students who graduated with First Class degrees-Honours Division during the Mak 75th Graduation ceremony.

The Country Manager, ACCA Uganda, Ms Charlotte Kukunda informed the students who turned up in big numbers, that the Career workshop was anchored in the programmes and activities that Makerere University and ACCA Uganda agreed to undertake when both entities signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in July 2022.

Ms Kukunda affirmed that ACCA Uganda values its strategic partnership with Makerere University, which has been mutually beneficial and fruitful. To expound this argument, Ms Kukunda highlighted the achievements which included: 660 students enrolled for ACCA programme, curriculum reviews of Makerere University accounting programmes, re-accreditation of the Bachelor of Commerce Accounting in June 2022, annual recognition of best accounting students since 2022, tutor capacity building workshops conducted at the College, lecturers granted access to the Education Hub, and hosting of three student career workshops annually.

She outlined the areas of collaboration with Makerere University as follows: accreditation of accounting programmes, co-development of teaching programmes that align and support the University edge resources and professional insights, employability through supporting students’ career and skills development, access to ACCA member networks to support Makerere University guest lectures/panels/conference speakers, and faculty skills development support in their teaching, learning and assessment.

The Country Manager said the Career workshop is planned, deliberate and intentional because ACCA classifies Makerere University students as strategic business leaders who are being nurtured, trained and prepared to drive the economy. She clarified that the ACCA programme is not limited to only students studying accounting.  According to Ms Kukunda, the ACCA programme embraces a broader range of disciplines and positions students for global competitiveness.

Ms. Kukunda encouraged students to explore the information resources on the ACCA website to tap into the opportunities that will enhance their financial acumen. She urged students to perceive themselves as global citizens. “When you perceive yourself as that, you are the right candidate for pursuing these globally accredited qualifications,” she said. She reinforced the value of connections and valuable networks with industry professionals, assuring students that their future is filled with potential and opportunities.

Feeding into Ms Kukunda’s presentation, Ms Jackie Mbabazi, the Business Relationship Manager at ACCA Uganda highlighted the significance of the ACCA qualification in shaping future leaders. She affirmed that ACCA is “a forward-thinking qualification” connected to vital sectors and stakeholders globally.

Ms. Mbabazi emphasized the global reach of the ACCA. “We are present in 180 countries. As you plan your professional journey, consider the ACCA qualification that is going to make you professional. Technology has enabled us to work beyond borders. Having globally recognized qualifications such as ACCA positions you to work globally,” she elaborated.

Ms Jackie Mbabazi

Ms. Mbabazi further pointed out the “forward-thinking qualification” attributes of ACCA. These include: Empowering individuals to be digitally relevant, creating ethical and trusted professionals, global recognition, professionals who add value, access to the most up to date syllabus on the market, and continuous learning for trainees as well as access to the global employability platform.

She also discussed the importance of adapting to technological advancements, stating, “You need to adapt and make sure technology is at the heart of what you are doing.”

Ms. Mbabazi articulated that ethics is at the centre of the ACCA programme. “ACCA programmes uphold ethics in building professionals. I urge you to avoid any form of fraud,” she emphasized.

The captivating presentations from the College of Business and Management Sciences and ACCA Uganda set the pace for the students to listen to a powerful keynote speech. Dr. Martin Bakundana introduced the keynote speaker, Mr. Robert Busuulwa, the founder and Managing Partner of Forvis Mazars in Uganda with over 30 years of tested and proven experience.

Mr. Robert Busuulwa’s keynote speech embodied words of wisdom and lived experiences that require an individual to be responsible for his or her destiny.

He guided the students that being successful is a personal choice and commitment. “If you want to be successful, dedicate time and study success,” he advised.

“When you plan to do something, focus and concentrate. Pursue your ambitions and career aspirations with determination and confidence,” he added.

 He castigated the popular phrase where individuals believe that it is the government responsible for their success and development. That statements calling upon the government to “assist” individuals should be discarded. “True liberation is about understanding who you are, your strengths and weakness, and what you can do as an individual to leverage your strength,” he stated.

He emphasized the importance of acquiring relevant skills, urging students to consider what they needed to demonstrate to future employers, particularly in light of evolving trends such as AI, robotics, and big data. “What are the skills that you are expected to demonstrate?” he asked, reflecting on the broadening scope of skills in the field.

Mr. Robert Busuulwa

Using lively examples, the keynote speaker informed the audience that he had to create time to be at Makerere University on 1st April 2025 to speak to the students. He reported that he manages a very tight schedule, but if you want and value something, you work towards it, and ensure it is a possibility.

“I am here because I created time and convinced myself that I should join you today. I love mentorship and interacting with people. I love being here. I have to return to society, what it has given me through qualifications, life and experiences. Through this career workshop, I am exactly doing that,” he said.

Mr. Busuulwa shared anecdotes from his academic journey and connecting with young minds poised for the future. He reinforced the notion that the landscape of accounting has changed dramatically, moving from traditional number-crunching to roles involving Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors, financial crime, and IT consulting.

A student poses a question during a Q&A session.

Mr. Busuulwa mentioned that with the trends in the accounting profession, students and practitioners are presented with diverse career paths.

Mr. Busuulwa encouraged students to understand and appreciate their potential. “Every one of you here has the potential. I urge you to believe in your capabilities,” he said. He cautioned students and young people in general against limiting beliefs. Citing the power of thinking and its effects on the choices that individuals make, he stated, “If you think you can’t do it, you will not.”

He inspired students to actively shape their careers, stressing the need for adaptability and continuous learning. He appealed to the students to always empower their minds and souls with positive statements such as “Whatever it is, I am going to be successful,” he remarked.

The Career workshop moderated by Ms Sylvia Namujjuzi, Assistant Lecturer at the College of Business and Management Sciences assisted by Mr. Jonathan Basalirwa, a third year student, ended on a high note with presentation of awards of excellence to the best ten (10) First Class Honours Division graduates, and a networking session involving the respective speakers and students.

The Principal thanked the Dean, School of Business- Dr. Godfrey Akileng, Dr. Eric Nzibonera, Ms Sylvia Namujjuzi, Mr. John Ogema, the Makerere University Accountancy Bureau, and the team from ACCA Uganda for organizing the Career workshop 2025.

The discussions involving Makerere University staff namely Prof. Edward Bbaale, Dr. Eric Nzibonera, ACCA Uganda-Ms Charlotte Kukunda and Ms Jackie Mbabazi, and the Keynote Speaker Mr. Robert Busuulwa emphasized the necessity of bridging the gap between academic training and real-world skills.

Ritah Namisango
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