Age is inevitable; it’s you to make your retirement enjoyable – URBRA
Old age is a treasure in life but how are going to enjoy it? – URBRA
Thousands of members of the Makerere University family filled the Main Hall on Tuesday, 19th February 2019 to learn more ways on how to save for their retirement. Right from the onset, the massive turn up of both staff and students listened attentively to the speakers who made presentations on various saving and retirement scheme options.
Addressing the audience, the Chairman Board of Directors Uganda Retirement Benefits Regulatory Authority (URBRA), Mr. Andrew Kasirye thanked everyone for sacrificing their time and attending the conference. He went on to share that URBRA is extending its services to the students in order to make them prepare for their old age, as the earlier one starts saving, the more money one receives upon retirement.
“It has come to our attention that students have money but don’t know how and when to spend it. As URBRA, we decided to come and extend our services to you so as to help you learn and adopt a saving and investment culture when you are still energetic; don’t wait until you get a lot of money before you start thinking of saving,” Mr. Kasirye advised.
He noted that URBRA is committed to implementing its strategic objective that aims at improving understanding and promoting the development of the Retirement Benefits Sector and expounding on the people’s understanding about saving for retirement.
Mr. Kasirye further acknowledged the excellent cooperation URBRA has with Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS) and noted that they work hand in hand towards achieving the shared goal, which is ensuring that the rights of scheme members are adequately safeguarded.
The Principal, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Dr. Eria Hisali thanked URBRA for working hand in hand with the School of Statistics and Population Studies to extend its services to the mighty Makerereans. He urged URBRA to continue this good service so as to sensitize the young generation.
Addressing the challenges of old age, poverty and the role of the Retirement Benefits Sector in the Economic Development, the Manager Research and Sector Development URBRA, Mr. Mukiibi Benjamin defined saving as the portion of current income not spent on consumption, and investment as the purchase of assets with the goal of increasing future income. He noted that saving for retirement is a long life term goal which everyone above 18 needs to engage in so as to live an enjoyable retirement.
He advised the students to save regardless of what they get if they want to enjoy their old age. “Even with so little earned, and many demands, one requires saving for retirement. Your most needy time is when you are retired and there is nothing to support you and you end up living a miserable life,” noted Mr. Mukiibi.
Mr. Mukiibi who is also a proud alumnus of Makerere University urged the Makerere fraternity to treasure their old age by making good use of every stage that they go through.
“Always ask yourself what kind of job you will do when you clock 60, use every stage of your life carefully and build a future of wealth and stability,” he advised.
Briefing the audience on the mandate and functions of URBRA the Acting Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Martin Nsubuga; another proud alumnus of Makerere, revealed that a students’ retirement savings scheme was opened last year to enable learners start saving early for their retirement, “for it is the black hair that works for the grey hair.”
“The longer you save the more money you save. Saving at a tender age is much better than saving at a late age when your retirement is at the door,” advised Mr. Nsubuga.
He also noted that once one has joined URBRA, he/she can save UGX1,000 daily and accumulate it till he/she reaches the retirement age of 55.
Speaking to the audience, the Patron Makerere Actuarial Society (MAS), Dr. Hellen Namawejje thanked URBRA for the great work done in extending its services to Makerere University students. She noted that this was the second successful Mak-URBRA seminar and thanked the audience for the massive turn up and pledged continuity of the educative seminars.
Article by Rachael Kanyi, Volunteer, Mak Public Relations Office
The Academic Registrar, Makerere University invites persons with disability who applied for admission to public universities under the disability entry scheme for 2026/2027 Academic Year to appear for medical/review exercise at Makerere University, Senate Building, Level Four Conference Hall.
NOTE: Only those who have the minimum entry requirements of at least two principal passes at A’ Level or its equivalent and at least five (5) passes at O’ Level or its equivalent will be interviewed.
Only candidates who sat ‘A’ level in 2025, 2024 and 2023 are eligible for admission.
THE EXERCISE WILL BE CONDUCTED ON 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st and 22nd May, 2026 respectively from 9.00 A.M – 1.00 P.M each day.
In this exclusive quick chat, we spoke to the 91st Guild President, Ssentamu Churchill James, a third-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Social Sciences. He shares insights into his leadership journey, key achievements, challenges, and his vision for the student community.
What inspired you to run for Guild President?
My background and personal leadership journey played a big role. Growing up, I saw my father and uncle actively involved in politics, which shaped my interest in leadership.
I also held leadership roles in high school—serving as Sports Minister at O-Level and later as Head Prefect at St. Juliana High School, Gayaza, during my A-Level. These experiences built my confidence and passion for representing others.
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi with the H.E. Ssentamu, H.E. Kadondi, Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli and family members of the Guild Leadership.
Seeing former Guild President Vincent Lubega Nsamba win also motivated me. We come from the same high school, and I succeeded him as Head Prefect. That gave me the belief that I, too, could lead at that level.
What was your vision when you assumed office, and how much of it did you achieve?
My vision was to amplify students’ voices and ensure their needs were prioritized. While it wasn’t easy due to bureaucracy, we made progress.
We improved students’ social welfare by engaging management, which led to greater flexibility in organizing events like the Bazaar and Freshers’ Ball. We also addressed the issue of missing marks. Previously, it could take semesters to resolve, but now, through the Office of the Academic Registrar, such issues can be handled much faster.
What is your biggest achievement?
One of the biggest milestones was allowing students to sit for examinations after paying at least 60% of tuition. This has reduced the number of students dropping out due to financial constraints.
Left to Right: MD and CEO NEC-Lt. Gen. James Mugira conducts a symbolic handover of keys to the Vice Chancellor-Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe as 91st Guild President-H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James, Principal CEES and Ag. DVCFA-Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, Deputy University Secretary-Mr. Simon Kizito and Deputy Dean of Students-Dr. Rodney Rugyema witness on 25th July 2025.
We also saw the lifting of the ban on social events, which has gradually revived campus life. Additionally, leadership roles such as ministers and Guild Representative Councillors (GRCs) have become more functional, with clearer responsibilities and greater impact.
What key lessons have you learned?
One key lesson is the importance of daring to take action. Things may seem impossible, but once you step out and try, you realize they are achievable.
I also learned that leadership begins with influence. For example, when class representatives raised concerns about not being paid, I had to engage and influence them to understand the situation while working toward solutions.
Leadership also requires teamwork. You cannot lead alone—you need a support system. When you delegate, trust people and avoid micromanaging.
H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James and H.E. Kadondi Gracious welcome freshers in typical Makerere style.
Another lesson is the importance of effective communication with management. Building strong relationships increases your chances of influencing decisions.
On a personal level, I have learned discipline—keeping time, improving how I present myself, and becoming more mindful in how I engage with others.
What do you attribute your success to?
First and foremost, God, who gave me the wisdom and understanding to lead.
I also attribute it to the strong working relationships I built with University leadership, especially the Vice Chancellor and the Dean of Students. Without that collaboration, it would have been difficult to achieve much.
How did you balance academics and leadership?
It required intentional planning and prioritization. When meetings clashed with tests, I delegated to the Vice President or Prime Minister. This ensured continuity while giving them an opportunity to grow.
H.E. Churchill James Ssentamu alongside other Student Leaders hold the “Strides for Change” banner at Mary Stuart Hall. Courtesy Photo.
However, I made it a point to attend critical engagements, such as Council meetings, because I was entrusted with representing students’ voices. I was also selective about external engagements to remain focused on my academics.
What challenges did you encounter?
Managing high expectations from students was a major challenge. Even small delays could attract criticism. For example, when students’ upkeep delayed by a week, some assumed I was not advocating for them.
I learned to remain calm and not react emotionally, instead using feedback as motivation to improve.
Another challenge was handling sensitive cases, such as advocating for students who had been suspended. Even when I did not agree with their actions, it was my duty to seek fair consideration on their behalf.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Mr. Ian King and H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James (Standing before Banners) are joined by officials in a group photo in the Daycare Centre, located on the Ground Floor of the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) on 7th August 2025.
Was there a difficult decision you had to make?
Yes. Just a month into office, I made the decision to relieve a minister of their duties because they did not align with the cabinet’s vision and values. Leadership requires making tough decisions to maintain unity and integrity.
Is there anything you would have done differently?
I feel I could have engaged more with the administration. At times, I was occupied with activities outside the University, which limited my interaction with management. With more engagement, I believe I could have achieved even more.
What will you miss most?
I will not necessarily miss the office itself. Leadership is about service, and it is now time for others to take on that responsibility as I move on to the next chapter of my life.
H.E. Churchill James Ssentamu enjoys a light moment with officials as he endorses the dummy of the policy.
How would you like to be remembered?
As a selfless leader who went the extra mile to serve others and always put students’ interests first—even when it required personal sacrifice.
For instance, during the Freshers’ Ball, we wanted to host a musician whose fee was UGX 4 million, yet we only had UGX 2 million. I personally covered the balance to make it happen for the students.
At Makerere University, the future didn’t feel distant, it felt urgent, alive, and within reach.
For three days in March, the university’s grounds transformed into a vibrant meeting point of ambition and opportunity as students, graduates, and industry leaders converged for the 2026 Careers Fair. Lecture halls spilled into exhibition spaces, conversations replaced uncertainty, and for many students, career dreams began to take clearer shape.
A Question That Defined the Moment: Man or Machine?
The opening day set the tone with a bold theme;“Machine vs. Man”, placing artificial intelligence at the center of career conversations. Students listened, questioned, and reflected as leaders challenged them not to fear technology, but to harness it.
The message was clear: the future belongs to those who can adapt.
Chief Guest-Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero (5th L) with Prof. Moses Musinguzi (3rd L), Chair Organising Committee-Prof. Anthony Gidudu and other Speakers on Day 1 of the Makerere Careers Fair.
Speakers emphasized that while AI is reshaping industries, it is also creating new opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation. For many students in attendance, this was more than a discussion—it was a wake-up call to rethink their place in a rapidly evolving world.
Beyond Jobs: Unlocking Global Opportunities
If Day One provoked thought, Day Two opened doors.
The focus shifted to scholarships, fellowships, and international study opportunities, expanding students’ horizons beyond the immediate job market. Conversations moved from “What job can I get?” to “What possibilities exist for me globally?”
Mr. James Katumba (R) contributes to the panel discussion.
Students explored pathways into prestigious programmes, exchange opportunities, and further study options, discovering that their ambitions could stretch far beyond borders.
Where Potential Meets Purpose
By the final day, the Careers Fair had evolved into something deeper—a platform for connection.
Under the theme “Connecting Potential to Purpose,” industry leaders, employers, and development partners engaged directly with students, emphasizing collaboration as the key to career success.
Across Freedom Square and exhibition booths, students asked tough questions, shared ideas, and made meaningful connections. Employers, in turn, offered insights into the skills that matter most in today’s workplace—adaptability, creativity, and critical thinking.
Gorretti Byomire contributes to the panel discussion.
More than 50 organizations participated, turning the fair into a living ecosystem of mentorship, networking, and opportunity.
Stories That Defined the Experience
But beyond the panels and presentations, it was the human moments that stood out.
There was the student who, after a conversation with a recruiter, discovered a career path they had never considered. The group of finalists who used simple tools like mobile phones to create powerful messages about safety and inclusion, reminding everyone that innovation often begins with what is available.
And there were countless quiet exchanges, handshakes, questions, shared laughter—that carried the weight of possibility.
Students attending the career fair on day three at the Freedom Square.
A Bridge to the Future
What emerged from the three-day experience was not just a successful event, but a powerful reminder of the university’s role as a bridge, linking academic training to real-world demands.
The Careers Fair reaffirmed Makerere’s commitment to preparing students not just for employment, but for meaningful participation in shaping the future. It brought into focus a simple but profound truth: careers are not built in isolation—they are nurtured through connections, curiosity, and courage.
For many students who walked through the fair, the journey ahead no longer felt uncertain. It felt possible.