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UBA Chairman Tony Elumelu Visits, Inspires and Challenges

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Mr. Tony Elumelu is a visionary Pan-African entrepreneur and philanthropist founder of Heirs Holdings; an African Investment Holding Company and the beneficial owner of the United Bank for Africa (UBA). UBA is the 9th largest commercial bank on the African continent with a global presence in New York, London and Paris. The fact that his Heirs Holdings is also present in twenty African countries is a good signal that the Nigerian economist, entrepreneur and philanthropist is a busy man. Nevertheless, Makerere University remained top on the agenda of his four day visit to Uganda.

The endless drizzles that preceded Mr. Elumelu’s visit to Makerere University on 11th April 2018 could only be a sign of the blessings that were to follow. Upon arrival, he was received by the Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and ushered into the Council Room where he met with Members of Central Management and the leadership of the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS).
Accompanied by the Regional Executive Officer, UBA Eastern Africa Divisional Office, Nairobi-Mr. Manz Denga, UBA Uganda Managing Director-Mr. Johnson Agoreyo and other officials, Mr. Elumelu could not hide his elation at making his maiden visit to Makerere University.  

Prof. Nawangwe (L) embraces Mr. Tony Elumelu (R) upon arrival at Makerere University as UBA Uganda CEO-Mr. Johnson Agoreyo (background) witnesses

“I am honoured, pleased and happy be with you this afternoon” remarked the gentle speaking Mr. Elumelu, “It is a wonderful experience to be in Makerere University; a well known and one of the foremost Universities in Africa” he added.

He thanked the Vice Chancellor for the warm welcome and commended all Makerere staff for helping to advance research and knowledge not only in Uganda but on the entire African continent. He also thanked the University Leadership for admitting UBA into the Makerere community, noting that “Makerere’s 45,000 student population is a tip that we can do more!”

After signing the visitors’ book and receiving souvenirs of the Makerere neck tie and diary from the Prof. Nawangwe, Mr. Elumelu proceeded to the Main Hall, where he was greeted by thunderous applause from the staff and students who had convened to listen to his talk. “I am greatly humbled and pleased to see that the hall is overflowing and some people are still standing” he remarked good naturedly ”I thank you all for coming and hope that our interaction will be enriching,” he added.

Mr. Tony Elumelu (2nd R) receives the Makerere University necktie and diary from Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (2nd L) after the courtesy call in the Council Room

The event took the form of a question and answer session moderated by the day’s emcee, Mr. Peter Igaga. He shared with Mr. Elumelu that a sample of questions from the audience had revealed that capital was an outstanding issue of concern for budding entrepreneurs and asked the UBA Chairman share his views on the topic.

Mr. Elumelu firstly admitted that entrepreneurship is not a simple journey to embark on as it calls for patience and resilience. He then emphasised that; an idea of what one wanted to do and a proper definition of how one wanted to go about doing it formed the basis for attracting capital. “Most billionaires in the world today did not start out with a handful of money. While it is important, do not kill your good ideas just because you don’t have a handful of money to start with.”

He further opined that entrepreneurs need not start big and all that was needed was seed funding to prove one’s concept or idea, which money can be raised from family, friends and a few willing venture capitalists. “Banks should be your last option as you start up” he warned, before adding “Banks by their nature are highly structured organizations and will only give you money to scale up your idea once it is up and running.”

Mr. Tony Elumelu (R) answers one of the questions posed by the day's emcee Mr. Peter Igaga (L) during his visit to Makerere University

On the culture of saving, Mr. Elumelu noted that this was one of the most important attributes of any successful entrepreneur. He reemphasized the fact that entrepreneurship is a long journey and those who venture into it must be very disciplined and avoid any luxuries and unnecessary expenses that would deplete initial revenue.

“I also advise you to get good mentors” he continued “at the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), we see capital as only one of the factors necessary for one to succeed. We also see training and mentoring as extremely important aspects of entrepreneurship. During our 12week mentorship programme, we ensure that you understand the basics of things such as good bookkeeping so as to prepare yourself for the future.”

Mr. Elumelu added that it was only upon successfully completing the TEF training that entrepreneurs saw their first coin of seed capital, which also comes with mentors. “Our aim is to create entrepreneurs not grant seekers. We want to train people who will be able to support other entrepreneurs in the future.”

Part of the audience that filled the Main Hall, Makerere University on 11th April 2018 to listen to Mr. Tony Elumelu

Since the setting of this discussion was at the region’s flagship University, the next topic sought clarity on the relevance of education to entrepreneurship, especially as a good number the world’s top billionaires had admitted to dropping out of school to focus on their ideas. Mr. Elumelu tackled this topic by first and foremost admitting that education, awareness and knowledge were all critical for entrepreneurship.

He however sought to create a distinction between two definitions of education; just to get a certificate and to gain a thorough understanding of subject matter, the former being the wrong one. He reaffirmed that education is a critical success factor in understanding ones trade, as it helps to sharpen the brain to better understand concepts. “Nevertheless, what is important is knowing what is critical for success. Discipline, hard work and thinking long term are extremely important factors for success” added Mr. Elumelu.

He urged all entrepreneurs never to let the fear of making mistakes prevent them from daring to try out their ideas. “You will make mistakes” assured Mr. Elumelu. “As a business, we have made some decisions that led us to venture into a partnership with a leading global company but in the end we had to write off US$200million after it didn’t take off as anticipated” he added, much to the hushed amazement of the audience.

UBA Founder and Chairman Mr. Tony Elumelu reassured budding entrepreneurs that they have all that it takes to become successful

Entrepreneurship without the right networks is a precarious journey to embark on. Tackling the question on the role of networks versus net worth, Mr. Elumelu shared that “Networks help you build net worth and net worth can help you extend your reach.” He stressed that it is important to have partnerships but these have to be matched with an alignment of interests. “Misalignment will not help you to build net worth or to succeed” added Mr. Elumelu.

“My net worth is not really important to me because it is just a figure; it is not about how much you have in the bank. What is important however is what you do with your net worth because at the end of the day you move from wanting to survive to changing lives and building a legacy” counseled Mr. Elumelu.

The day’s session would have been incomplete without a few testimonies from TEF beneficiaries. Mr. Joseph Ogwal is the Founder of Agro Supply Uganda Limited and a 2017 TEF Alumnus. His business was started with the aim of supplying smallholder farmers in the Acholi and Lango sub-regions with quality seeds. After completing his training with TEF, Joseph’s business is now able to supply 10,000 farmers with 30metric tonnes of quality planting seed and is projected to supply up to 50metric tonnes by the close of 2018. The company has additionally set its sights on supplying new markets in Rwanda and Tanzania.

Hon. Grace Oburu-a former legislator of the 8th Parliament and proprietor of Pakoi Mixed Farm Tororo shared her testimony

Hon. Grace Oburu is the proprietor of Pakoi Mixed Farm in Tororo District and a 2017 TEF Alumna. The former legislator of the 8th Parliament admitted to initially being chastised by her children for applying to a youth entrepreneurship competition. She however persisted and today, does not regret having made that decision, especially as with the help of the seed capital she expects to house 800pigs at her farm by the close of 2018.

“The Operation Wealth Creation has booked all piglets from my farm because I am rearing a good breed, I have offered employment to the previously jobless youth and young men in the community are learning how to make biogas for cooking which is saving the environment” added Hon. Oburu.

Addressing the audience, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe thanked Mr. Tony Elumelu for putting Makerere University especially the interaction with budding entrepreneurs at the top of his agenda. He noted that Mr. Elumelu was one of the most enterprising entrepreneurs in Africa.

An entrepreneur whose company Wok Too Energy Limited promotes solar powered cooking shares his testimony

“I want to thank you Mr. Tony Elumelu for being a very generous person by supporting youths in Africa, irrespective of where they come from, so as to emancipate Africa from poverty. We are now past the stage of political emancipation and now is the time for economic emancipation” said Prof. Nawangwe.

He noted that Makerere University has produced some of the region’s top leaders in all spheres of influence including former Presidents such as H.E. Mwalimu Julius Nyerere of Tanzania, H.E. Mwai Kibaki of Kenya, H.E. Milton Obote of Uganda, to mention but a few. Prof. Nawangwe also encouraged Mr. Elumelu to come back again and welcomed partnerships with UBA and TEF aimed at improving entrepreneurship skills among the students.

Article by Public Relations Office

 

Mark Wamai

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Mastercard Foundation Scholars Empower Schools in Mukono and Kyegwegwa Districts

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Mr. John Osuna, the Transition Lead, together with some of the Scholars, handing over the learning materials to the Chairperson of Parents' Association at Little Angels Primary School. Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, Kampala during the Annual Scholars Day of Community Service at Little Angels Nursery and Primary School in Ntenjeru, Mukono District, and St. Charles Rwahunga, Nursery and Primary School in Kyegegwa District, Uganda, East Africa, 16th November 2024.

By Scholars Program Communication Team

On Saturday, November 16, 2024, Little Angels Junior School, Mawotto Village, Mukono District, and St. Charles Rwahunga, Nursery and Primary School in Kyegegwa District celebrated an inspiring, joy-filled event. These two schools were selected to receive the generosity of Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University during the Annual Scholars Day of Community Service.

At St. Charles Rwahunga Nursery and Primary School, the Scholars donated various products, including Learning Materials, Geometry sets, Sanitary towels for the girls, sportswear for the boys’ football team, and other goodies.

The Community Nursery and Primary School serves 412 pupils with severe challenges due to inadequate infrastructure. The buildings are dilapidated, there is a shortage of desks, and the classrooms are small and overcrowded. These issues need to be addressed to ensure a better student learning environment.

Mr. Alex Mugisha,the Headteacher, extreme left, pupils and staff of St. Charles Rwahunga Primary school very excited after receiving learning materials donated by Scholars of Mastercard Foundation. Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, Kampala during the Annual Scholars Day of Community Service at Little Angels Nursery and Primary School in Ntenjeru, Mukono District, and St. Charles Rwahunga, Nursery and Primary School in Kyegegwa District, Uganda, East Africa, 16th November 2024.
Mr. Alex Mugisha,the Headteacher, extreme left, pupils and staff of St. Charles Rwahunga Primary school very excited after receiving learning materials donated by Scholars of Mastercard Foundation.

Mr. Alex Mugisha, the Headteacher of the School, expressed gratitude to the Scholars of Mastercard Foundation for the kind gesture they extended to his school.

“I am deeply grateful, along with the students and staff, for the generosity of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars. These materials will significantly enhance the learning environment for our pupils,” remarked Mr. Mugisha.

Mr. Nelson Ddumba, the Scholars Council Representative, encouraged the young learners at the event not to lose hope. He emphasized that regardless of their starting point, they can improve their circumstances by staying in school.

Mr. Ddumba Nelson, the Scholars' Council representative, speaking to the Pupils of St. Charles Rwahunga Primamary School. Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, Kampala during the Annual Scholars Day of Community Service at Little Angels Nursery and Primary School in Ntenjeru, Mukono District, and St. Charles Rwahunga, Nursery and Primary School in Kyegegwa District, Uganda, East Africa, 16th November 2024.
Mr. Ddumba Nelson, the Scholars’ Council representative, speaking to the Pupils of St. Charles Rwahunga Primamary School.

“Listen, my fellow students: do not give up. The only path to transforming your circumstances is through a steadfast commitment to your education and remaining in school. I have been in your shoes, but I pushed through and succeeded thanks to my mother’s unwavering support. Today, I proudly attend Makerere University, one of the leading institutions in Uganda. Embrace the challenge ahead and make your education your top priority!” Mr. Ddumba declared.

At Little Angels Junior School, pupils were excited to receive educational materials, reusable sanitary towels, mathematical sets, dictionaries, and textbooks for nursery to primary seven students.

Ms. Sarah Nturo, the headteacher, commended the Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University for the kind gesture.

Pupils of Little Angels express their excitement during a group photo with the Scholars of Mastercard Foundation. Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, Kampala during the Annual Scholars Day of Community Service at Little Angels Nursery and Primary School in Ntenjeru, Mukono District, and St. Charles Rwahunga, Nursery and Primary School in Kyegegwa District, Uganda, East Africa, 16th November 2024.
Pupils of Little Angels express their excitement during a group photo with the Scholars of Mastercard Foundation.

She said the books will help the school improve its reading culture and performance.

“We are grateful to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University; we believe these books will significantly contribute to improving our pupils’ performance,” Ms. Nturo said.

Nturo also pointed out that they have challenges with the facilities and water as a school.

“Ever since we started this School, the education has improved because, in the past, parents could not allow their children to come here; instead, they would send them to the lake for fishing. But now, the children come only because they do not have somewhere to sit. We have few desks,” Nturo said.

A cross-section of Mastercard Foundation Scholars pose in a photograph with pupils of Little Angels Junior School. Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, Kampala during the Annual Scholars Day of Community Service at Little Angels Nursery and Primary School in Ntenjeru, Mukono District, and St. Charles Rwahunga, Nursery and Primary School in Kyegegwa District, Uganda, East Africa, 16th November 2024.
A cross-section of Mastercard Foundation Scholars pose in a photograph with pupils of Little Angels Junior School.

During the visit, the pupils mesmerised the scholars with rare dance moves. The excitement did not leave the Programme Implementation team and teachers in their seats, making it a fun-filled event. The audience was left yearning for more.

Addressing the school, Mr. John Osuna, the Transition Lead at the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, urged the pupils to use their school time to prepare for a bright future.

“Do not mind where you are coming from. We all started like this. Education is an equalizer. Now that you have an opportunity to study, focus on making the best out of it. Be disciplined pupils and listen to your teachers. The sky will be the limit,” Mr Osuna said.

A cross-section of schoolgirls of St. Charles Rwahunga Primary School pose in a photo with sanitary towels donated by Scholars of Mastercard Foundation. Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, Kampala during the Annual Scholars Day of Community Service at Little Angels Nursery and Primary School in Ntenjeru, Mukono District, and St. Charles Rwahunga, Nursery and Primary School in Kyegegwa District, Uganda, East Africa, 16th November 2024.
A cross-section of schoolgirls of St. Charles Rwahunga Primary School pose in a photo with sanitary towels donated by Scholars of Mastercard Foundation.

During the event, Francis Kabuye Kaggwa, the Chairperson of the Parents Teacher Association (PTA) leadership, said that ever since the school started over 10 years back, they have never received guests who bring them gifts like how the Mastercard Foundation Scholars did.

“I think you have seen how excited the children were. We are all happy this has never happened to our school. Who are we to receive these gifts? We have challenges, but with friends like God on our side, we shall conquer,” Mr. Kabuye noted.

The boys' football team of St. Charles Rwahunga Primary School pose in a photo after receiving the sports wear donated by the Scholars of Mastercard Foundation. Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, Kampala during the Annual Scholars Day of Community Service at Little Angels Nursery and Primary School in Ntenjeru, Mukono District, and St. Charles Rwahunga, Nursery and Primary School in Kyegegwa District, Uganda, East Africa, 16th November 2024.
The boys’ football team of St. Charles Rwahunga Primary School pose in a photo after receiving the sports wear donated by the Scholars of Mastercard Foundation.

The Scholars’ Day of Community Service is an annual event where Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University engage in community service as a way of giving back. This initiative aims to empower vulnerable individuals in the community and contribute positively to society.

Mak Editor

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Prof. Nawangwe calls for Increased Government Sponsorship for Students with Disabilities

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Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe addressing the gathering during the International Day for Persons With Disabilities commemoration. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By Mak Communication Team

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, while speaking at the inaugural commemoration of the International Day for Persons with Disabilities at Makerere University has appealed to the Government to increase the number of students with disabilities on government sponsorship.

The event held on Wednesday, 13th November 2024 was organised by the Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students’ Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities and held in the Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium.

Part of the audience, listening attentively during the event. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Part of the audience, listening attentively during the event.

The day’s theme was: “Empowering Inclusion: Breaking Barriers, Unlocking Potential”

“Students with disabilities should be the first to be admitted on Government sponsorship because there are not so many,” Prof. Nawangwe said.

Hon. Hellen Asamo, signing a commitment card to continue supporting inclusivity at Makerere University and the country as a whole. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Hon. Hellen Asamo, signing a commitment card to continue supporting inclusivity at Makerere University and the country as a whole.

 Prof. Nawangwe called upon the government to devise a scheme and policy for integrating students with disabilities into the working environment after graduation.

Prof. Nawangwe noted that the University has established a Disability Support Centre, a one-stop facility to ensure equal access to education and life, promote inclusivity, and support students and staff with disabilities.

Prof. Nawangwe handing over a gift to the Chief Guest, Hon Asamo. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Nawangwe handing over a gift to the Chief Guest, Hon Asamo.

“Over the years, Makerere University has branded itself as a place that actively and loudly promotes increased awareness about the rights and needs of students and staff with disabilities.” Prof. Nawangwe remarked.

While addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest, Hon. Hellen Grace Asamo, the State minister for Disability Affairs, called upon Persons with Disabilities to always believe in themselves and be able to break the barriers of the inferiority complex.

One of the students with disability receiving an award for being supportive to other students with disabilities. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
One of the students with disability receiving an award for being supportive to other students with disabilities.

“You have to show people that you have the potential, and when people get to know your potential, they will begin to include and engage you. But if you do not have your potential, nobody will include you. They will think you are just someone who is just there seated and begging,” Hon. Asamo noted.

In her welcome remarks, Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, the Dean of Students at Makerere University, said that the University is making a deliberate effort to pay particular attention to the decisive implementation of inclusive Policies and Practices.

Dr. Kabumbuli, receiving the award on behalf of the VC, as recognition for the efforts the university was making towards inclusivity. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Kabumbuli, receiving the award on behalf of the VC, as recognition for the efforts the university was making towards inclusivity.

“This is where we want all people to thrive and grow. Therefore, we are proud to accept and celebrate our differences and uniqueness. We welcome you here to build a culture of active support for each other and to declare that by championing a conducive environment for students and staff with disability, we are part of the change-makers of today,” Dr Kabumbuli said.

Dr. Kabumbuli also highlighted several policies the University has implemented, such as the Policy for Persons with Disabilities and safeguarding, Accommodation policy, University rules and regulations, the Human resource manual, and the student guild constitution that provides inclusive participation in student leadership and admission policies.

Prof. Justine Namaalwa, the Program Director of Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program receiving the award on behalf of the Team. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa, the Program Director of Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program receiving the award on behalf of the Team.

“These policies protect and enhance the rights of both staff and students with disabilities. For example, we have a student guild minister for persons with disabilities to ensure their voices are heard,” Dr. Kabumbuli noted.

Makerere has directed attention to ensuring accessible and comfortable accommodations for students with Disabilities by having designated accessible hostels and rooms. The University provides salaries, lodging, and meals for helpers who assist students with disabilities. A concentrated effort is also being made to build ramps, elevators, and accessible pathways to facilitate navigation for students and staff.

A panel of experts discussing the issues affecting PWDs and how to mitigate them. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A panel of experts discussing the issues affecting PWDs and how to mitigate them.

According to Dr Kabumbuli, the University has embraced a drive to facilitate students’ access to assistive devices, including wheelchairs, white canes, brailling machines, hearing aids, etc.

“As part of our commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, the University has designated a specialized space within the library, equipped with assistive technologies and resources, specifically for students with disabilities to ensure equal access to knowledge and academic success for all. We have also put in place special arrangements, such as extra time during examinations to enable access to education,” Dr Kabumbuli said.

Hon. Minister representing students with disabilities on the students' guild addressing the audience. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Hon. Minister representing students with disabilities on the students’ guild addressing the audience.

Dr. Kabumbuli acknowledged the support from the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, the Ministry of Gender, and the School of Law, which are committed to championing diversity, inclusion, and equity for People with Disabilities.

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is celebrated annually on December 3rd to raise awareness and support for people with disabilities worldwide.

The Commemorative card that was signed by guest as commitment to supporting inclusivity at Makerere University. Office of the Dean of Students and the 90th Students' Guild-Ministry of Students with Disabilities inaugural International Day of Persons with Disabilities commemoration, 13th November 2024, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Commemorative card that was signed by guest as commitment to supporting inclusivity at Makerere University.

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The 3rd Fundis and Technicians sensitization event and exhibition held successfully

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The 3rd annual Fundis and Technicians sensitization event and exhibition by manufacturers of building materials organized by the Department Architecture and Physical Planning at the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), Makerere University came to a close with a call for increased partnerships between training institutions and the community.

The event that attracted 200 participants including masons, fundis, painters, builders, metal and electrical fabricators ran from Thursday 24th to Friday 25th October 2024 at CEDAT. It was supported by several stakeholders and was characterized by training sessions and an exhibition of building materials by different companies that make cement, paint, water tanks tiles and many more.

Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration, Makerere University.

Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration represented the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe at the opening of the training. In his remarks, he extended appreciation to the technicians for accepting to take part in the training which he said was key in ensuring that they gain from continuous learning. Prof. Alinaitwe observed that although some of them did not get through formal training, it was important that they took part in such training programs to keep abreast of the developments in the construction industry where they undertake the bulk of the work as masons, technicians, plumbers, and metal fabricators.

‘Keep improving, we need to up our game in terms of quality’, he said while making reference to the need for quality output.  He cautioned them on issues of cost and cheating of their clients by making realistic costs.  ‘We need to cost the work well taking into account the materials, the labor, the equipment used, and the overheads’.  The other area that needed to be taken care of by the technicians included time management, which reflects on attitudes towards work, team work.   While addressing the gathering in his capacity as Chairman of the Engineers Registration Board, Prof. Alinaitwe said the upcoming engineering Registration Bill, if approved, has a provision for the registration of all artisans and hence the need to have the minimum requirements for the stakeholders to be registered. He also stressed the need to bring on board as more women as possible.  ‘We want to see more women, who can do some aspects in construction better than men like painting.

Prof. Moses Musinguzi, the Principal of the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology, Makerere University.

Prof. Moses Musinguzi, the Principal of the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology while welcoming the trainees to the college said the training is a good initiative that will help address challenge of skill and work match.  He encouraged the trainees to do smart work, and take due consideration of ethics and customer care. He encouraged the department to extend the training opportunity to other units of the college and the university and also make it more formal, as part and parcel of the training program of the college in liaison with bodies like UBTEB.

Assoc. Prof. Kizito Maria Kasule, the Deputy Principal CEDAT while appreciating the initiative of the department said countries like Germany have apprenticeship training that help the training of students to gain skills equivalent to those acquired while in formal institutions of learning.  He said the academia in Uganda is increasingly recognizing the importance of the informal sector in the growth of the country. ‘We need to learn from you. Almost 90% of the people in the construction industry have been informally trained’. He said by learning from each other, the two sectors jointly make a contribution towards the development of the country.

Dr. Amin Tamale Kiggundu, the head of the Department of Architecture and Physical Planning said the initiative, a community outreach program of the college started three years ago in the year 2022 with 60 Fundis and masons, in 2023, the number was increased to 120 Fundis and the current 2024, was 200 Fundis of various categories, including painters, builders, metal fabricators, plumbers and electrical fabricators. He said this community outreach program aims at sharing the accumulated scientific knowledge in building, design and construction technologies at CEDAT, sharing the expertise, knowledge and experiences with communities in greater Kampala and hence bridging the existing knowledge and skills gap between the training institutions and the communities.

Dr. Amin Tamale Kiggundu, the head of the Department of Architecture and Physical Planning, Makerere University

The 21st century is characterized by collaboration, partnerships, and establishment of knowledge economies.  He said based on the trainings held so far, it is clear that partnerships between the training institutions and the communities were possible especially the Fundis who are closer to the communities. ‘We also want to learn from the Fundi’s experiences, how they are able to connect to the communities in some cases better than those who have gone through the training institutions’, he said. He further noted that the majority of fundis are young people that need to be supported with skills and other ways of nurturing them. The dream of the department, he said is to introduce an open door policy that allows fundis and other university students to come to learn.  

Several organizations supported the event and participated in the exhibition and they included Habitat for Humanity, Uganda, Green Building Council Uganda, The National Building Board, Uganda Clays Limited, Centenary Bank, Steel and Tube Industries Ltd, Simba Cement, Plascon, Goodwill, Cresttanks among others.

Alex Isemaghendera

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