Business & Management
The Role of E-commerce in Commercializing Entrepreneurship Ventures at Mak
E-commerce, the process of buying and selling goods using the internet, is a great facilitator of trade. Owing to the reduced cost of doing business – in most some cases there is no need for a physical shop, increased efficiency – orders and stock are easily tracked, and increased access to geographically distant markets, E-commerce has become a game changer for businesses that have adopted it. Unfortunately, student entrepreneurs at Makerere University have not been keen to make the most of this avenue of doing business.
According to a team of researchers led by Dr. Hellen Namawejje from the Department of
Statistical Methods and Actuarial Science, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), less than 10% of the business enterprises exhibited at the 2018 Annual Students’ Entrepreneurship Expo organized by the College were using pure e-commerce. With partial e-commerce, goods and services are sold through internet, but hand-delivered to customers while with pure e-commerce, all the process involved are digital.
The team, with funding from the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF), therefore sought to understand this low uptake through a study titled “Commercializing of Entrepreneurship Ventures using E-Commerce: Evidence from Makerere University, Uganda”. Other members of the research team were; Dr. Proscovia Katumba-Department of Marketing
and Management, CoBAMS, Dr. Patricia Ndugga-Department of Population Studies, CoBAMS, Mr. Augustine Ssekyondwa, Directorate of E-Government Services, National Information Technology Authority-Uganda (NITA-U) and Dr. Isaac Shinyekwa-Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC).
and Management.
Speaking at the dissemination event held in the CoBAMS Conference Room and virtually on Thursday 17th December, 2020, members of the Mak-RIF Grants Management Committee (GMC) in attendance thanked Government of Uganda for the generous funding that enabled the research team to conduct studies that can help address youth unemployment in Uganda. They equally paid tribute to the Chairperson GMC, Prof. William Bazeyo for his negotiation skills that influenced the Government to allocate the funding.
“With 70% of youth in Uganda currently unemployed, this study will be of great assistance in addressing this pertinent issue,” remarked Dr. John Mutenyo, a GMC Member. “I urge you to disseminate these findings widely so that the youth can know that there are other avenues through which they can get employment” he added.
Dr. Mutenyo reminded the audience that the call for RIF 3 (the third round of Mak-RIF funding) will go out early next year and urged them to prepare good proposals that can attract Government funding especially in research areas that address NDP III (the Third National Development Plan) and the SDGs.
“Entrepreneurship and E-commerce are currently big players in the economy of any country in the world. I believe that these findings are not going to end here but will be taken down to potential users and hopefully help them. This will boost the impact that we ought to see from these research funds” added Dr. Isa Kabenge, another GMC member.
When it comes to understanding business ventures, it is always advisable to hear from an established practitioner. E-commerce ought not to be the exception. Delivering a brief keynote address, Makerere University alumnus and Founder, Xente Tech Limited, Mr. Allan Rwakatungu paid tribute to his alma mater and the research team in particular for taking steps to bring more Ugandans into the digital economy.
Xente is a platform founded in 2016 with a vision to make every person and business join the digital economy. “The opportunities out there are immense, not only for users of the platforms but also for entrepreneurs who are able to harness them” shared Mr. Rwakatungu.
Taking an example of Jumia, he noted that although the company controls less than 3% of the total retail market in Africa, it is worth billions of US dollars. “To show you what that actually means, the percentage covered by Alibaba is about 25%, and when you look at the size of the Chinese market, the opportunities for growth are immense” he added.
According to Wikipedia, the Alibaba Group recorded a net income of US$ 19.82 Billion in 2020 and had over 117,000 employees as at 31st March 2020.
Addressing participants, the Dean School of Business, CoBAMS-Dr. Godfrey Akileng observed that the current disruptions occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic have provided us all with an opportunity to rethink how we can better manage and do business. “Those who will not embrace international electronic payment systems will struggle as the pandemic continues to sustain itself.”
He added that the mix of entrepreneurship and e-commerce presents students of business with an opportunity to reflect further on the contribution of these areas to development. “Uganda is considered among top ten most enterprising countries in the world but unfortunately, the demise of these business startups is very high. I hope this research will help us illustrate how e-commerce can find a lasting solution in terms of sustainability of these firms.”
Giving an overview of the project, Dr. Prossy Katumba identified absence of delivery infrastructure and secure payment methods as two major barriers to the wider acceptance of E-commerce in Africa. “Several countries lack an organized physical address system, and cash on delivery is the main payment method that online merchants such as Jumia, SafeBoda, Café Javas, Xente among others must deal with.”
She added that the entrepreneurship course offered to all undergraduate students at the Schools of Economics and Business, CoBAMS as well as Masters of Business Administration (MBA) and Masters of Economic Policy and Management students equips them with skills that enable learners to start their own enterprises.
“We have some success stories that have come out of this entrepreneurship course such as Dalausi Juice in Wandegeya, which has become a must-have at high-end parties” shared Dr. Katumba. “This thriving business was birthed out of a simple coursework idea” she added.
Dr. Katumba equally made mention of Andrew Mupuya, who as a result of his course work in entrepreneurship went into the production of recycled paper, “and has as a result won many awards from various international organizations and been featured on CNN – we encourage our students to start small and grow their ideas into a formidable business,” she explained.
Presenting the findings, the Principal Investigator-Dr. Namawejje shared that 796 out of 1,320 students that took part in the 2018 Entrepreneurship Expo were surveyed. 47% of these were female while 53% were male. 77% of participants were below the age of 24 while 23% were aged 24 years and above. In terms of origin, 38% of participants were from the Western region, while 32% were from Central, 16% from Eastern, 8% from Northern and 6% either from other regions or of different nationalities.
Technology is an essential driver of e-commerce uptake. 88% of the 796 respondents used smart phones, while 52% used laptops, 4% used either desktops or tablets and 9% had no device to use. The high percentages recorded in the use of smart phones and laptops could imply that some respondents used more than one device.
Additional drivers of E-commerce uptake reported included; the Annual Students’ Entrepreneurship Expo that enabled budding entrepreneurs to practice what they had learnt in class and a regulatory environment that was conducive to doing business online – there are no restrictions imposed on entrepreneurs who posted their products and services on various platforms. The natural shift of businesses online due to the COVID-19 pandemic was also another driver of e-commerce uptake by both entrepreneurs and customers.
The findings further revealed that entrepreneurs employed three main models of E-commerce; Business to Customer (B2C), Business to Business (B2B) and Business to Government (B2G). At 80%, B2C had the largest share while B2G was understandably at only 1%. “Owing to the capital intensive nature of doing business with Government, we did not expect the B2G model to feature prominently in our findings” explained Dr. Namawejje.
At 95%, the use of Social Media Platforms dominated the channels employed by students to reach their customers. This was followed by Websites at 21%, Email at 18%, Mobile Short Codes (SMS Codes) at 4%, Word of Mouth at 1.8% and Making Calls at 0.8%. Platforms such as Facebook have already taken advantage of this trend by introducing Facebook Shops – enabling businesses to create online stores on Facebook and Instagram free of charge.
Despite the availability of free options for entrepreneurs to easily embrace e-commerce, it became apparent to the research team that some barriers were impeding this. The lack of e-commerce knowledge topped this list with 73% of entrepreneurs citing it. This was followed by the high cost of internet at 67%, Lack of access to gadgets at 54% and Poor Internet connections at 49%. Trust and cyber security issues were cited by 45% of respondents while Conservatism among community members accounted for 20%.
To help boost the commercialization of entrepreneurship ventures using e-commerce, the research team made the following recommendations at policy level;
- Government should provide subsidized or free Internet to Makerere University to enable students easily utilise online platforms for generating and nurturing entrepreneurship ideas and projects.
- Taxes on e-commerce enablers such as Internet and smart phones should be reduced as a way of attracting business enterprises especially the start-ups to take up e-commerce in their operations.
- Government should support building of e-commerce infrastructure at Makerere University since it’s a Government institution.
The dissemination event was moderated by Dr. Anthony Tibaingana from the School of Statistics and Planning, who last week disseminated his findings on “The impact of Skilling the Youth and Women in Household Enterprise Start-Up and Performance in Uganda”.
Article by Public Relations Office
Business & Management
Makerere University launches two taught PhD Programmes in Management, Accounting and Finance
“New doctoral students urged to pursue research that delivers solutions to Uganda’s socio-economic challenges.”
Makerere University has launched two new taught Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programmes namely: The PhD in Management (by coursework) and the PhD in Accounting and Finance (by coursework).
The programmes, launched on 4th August 2026, under the School of Business at the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), are among the first taught PhD programmes in the two disciplines in Uganda.
The launch was presided over by Makerere University Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali, during a three-day orientation programme for the inaugural PhD students running from 4th to 6th August 2026.
Prof. Ssali challenged the new scholars to pursue evidence-based research addressing pressing challenges facing Uganda and the wider world.
“Choosing to pursue a PhD is not an ordinary decision. It is a commitment to becoming part of an institution with a rich history of research, innovation and knowledge creation,” Prof. Ssali said.
She told the students that the purpose of doctoral training should go beyond acquiring academic qualifications, urging them to focus on solving real-world problems.
“A PhD should prepare you to solve problems. You should ask yourselves: ‘What problem am I trying to solve?’ Research should not simply produce another thesis that sits on a shelf in the library. It should generate knowledge, products, services, policies and innovations that improve people’s lives,” she said.
Prof. Ssali explained that research outputs should not only be physical products, but could also include frameworks, management systems, policies and models that transform society.
“For those in the service disciplines, your product could be a framework, a model, a policy, a management system or a new way of delivering services that changes how society functions. That is why we do research,” she said.
She urged the scholars to remain committed throughout their doctoral journey, noting that persistence and discipline are critical to completing a PhD.
“A PhD requires commitment. It requires discipline. It requires sacrifice. Success in a PhD is determined by persistence,” Prof. Ssali said.
She encouraged students to embrace critical thinking and challenge existing ideas through evidence-based inquiry.
Prof. Ssali implored the scholars to focus their research on areas that can contribute to economic transformation, including agriculture, manufacturing, taxation, supply chains, governance, finance, climate change and technology.
“Uganda faces many challenges, but every challenge is also an opportunity for research. Research should not stop at identifying problems. It should propose practical, implementable solutions,” she said.
Makerere positions graduate training at centre of research agenda
The Principal of CoBAMS, Prof. Edward Bbaale, described the launch of the programmes as a major milestone in Makerere University’s agenda to strengthen its position as a research-intensive institution.
Prof. Bbaale said the PhD programmes represent a strategic investment in developing researchers, innovators and academic leaders.
“Today’s occasion is very significant because it marks the launch of the taught Doctor of Philosophy in Management and the Doctor of Philosophy in Accounting and Finance programmes,” he said.
“These are among the first taught PhD programmes in these disciplines in Uganda, and we are very proud of this achievement.”
He commended the School of Business leadership and faculty for developing the programmes, acknowledging that establishing doctoral programmes requires commitment, teamwork and dedication to academic excellence.
He observed that the programmes align with Makerere’s strategic goal of becoming a research-led university.
“Graduate training must be at the centre of that transformation. Events like this one—the admission and orientation of PhD students—are exactly the kinds of activities that define a research-intensive university,” he said.
Prof. Bbaale encouraged the first cohort students to publish their research in reputable journals and complete their studies within the required period.
“Complete your coursework successfully. Progress through your research diligently. Graduate within the required period. Publish your work in reputable, high-impact journals. Your success will create a strong foundation upon which future cohorts will build,” Prof. Bbaale said.
He guided that doctoral research should provide evidence to guide national decision-making.
“There is a great demand for evidence-based policy advice in Uganda. Government needs researchers who can provide evidence, not simply opinions,” he said. “Your research should generate evidence upon which decisions can be made.”
School of Business welcomes pioneer cohort
The Dean of the School of Business, Associate Professor Godfrey Akileng, welcomed the students and described the programmes as part of the school’s continued growth in graduate training.
“We are delighted to welcome you as you begin this journey with us. We hope that you will stay with us throughout the next three years of your PhD studies,” Assoc. Prof. Akileng said.
He asserted that the doctoral journey would be demanding, but assured students of support from the faculty.
“The programme is demanding, and the research component will be very intensive. Our hope is that we shall walk this journey together and, three years from now, celebrate your graduation as one cohort,” he said.
He highlighted that a PhD is about knowledge creation rather than simply earning a title.
“A PhD is not about being called ‘Doctor.’ It is about becoming a contributor to knowledge. It is about transforming yourself. It is about solving problems. It is about making an impact,” Assoc. Prof. Akileng said.
Assoc. Prof. Akileng advised students to build strong relationships with supervisors while taking responsibility for their own research.
Building research networks
Dr Caroline Twongirwe, Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Accounting and Finance at CoBAMS, urged the new scholars to begin developing research networks early in their PhD journey.
She cautioned students against focusing only on coursework while postponing research preparation.
“If we spend a whole year focusing only on coursework and then begin thinking about research later, the target of completing within three years may not be achievable,” Dr Twongirwe said.
She said collaboration is essential for producing quality research and accessing international opportunities.
“For us to produce quality research, generate new ideas and contribute to knowledge, we need collaboration,” she said.
Dr Twongirwe explained that research networks can provide mentorship, expertise, funding opportunities and greater visibility for scholars.
“Your networking must be intentional. Identify people with whom you share common interests and who can help you move forward in your research journey,” she said.
She encouraged students to attend seminars, conferences and engage with researchers in their areas of interest.
“Research networks introduce you to mentorship and guidance, access to expertise, collaboration opportunities, funding opportunities and greater visibility for your research,” she said.
Academic regulations and research tracking
Dr Alfred Tingo from Makerere University’s Directorate of Graduate Training urged the new PhD students to understand university regulations, complete registration requirements and remain engaged throughout their studies. He called upon the students to maintain communication with their supervisors and university structures.
Dr Tingo highlighted the importance of the university’s Research Information Management System (RIMS) in monitoring students’ progress.
“RIMS helps us track your research progress. Your research topic, proposal development, approvals and supervisor interactions are captured in the system,” he said.
The new PhD programmes are expected to strengthen Makerere University’s contribution to research, innovation and policy development by producing scholars capable of generating knowledge for Uganda, Africa and the global community.
Business & Management
CoBAMS 2026 Orientation kicks off: Mak DVC Academic Affairs underscores excellence, networks, integrity and values
By Ritah Namisango and Monica Meeme
Makerere University College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) kicked off its four-day orientation programme (4th to 7th August 2026) aimed at equipping first-year students with the knowledge required to smoothly transition into university life.
The programme focuses on familiarizing students with the College’s teaching and learning environment, the academic calendar, university policies and procedures, library and ICT services, scholarship opportunities, leadership platforms and student support services.
Organized by the Office of the Principal, in collaboration with the College Registrar, College Communication Office, and the Student leaders, the first day of the CoBAMS Orientation was a great convening with over 800 students who filled Makerere University Central Teaching Facility to the brim.
Day one (4th August 2026) presented a golden opportunity to the first year students to interact with Prof. Sarah Ssali, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) at Makerere University. Introduced to the audience by Prof. Edward Bbaale-College Principal, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) delivered a powerful speech filled with words of wisdom, inspiration, and guidance to the students.
The students listened to presentations from the following university officials: Prof. Edward Bbaale-College Principal, Associate Professor James Wokadala-Deputy Principal, Ms Stella Butamanya-Acting College Registrar, Ms Sylvia Martha Munafu-College Librarian, Ms Catherine Tumusiime-IT Specialist, Ms. Evelyn Kharono-Counselling Psychologist at the Counselling and Guidance Centre, Mr. Peter Mubiru-College Bursar, Mr. Blaise Turyasingura from the Makerere University Revenue Office, Ms. Ritah Namisango-Communication Office, Ms Claire Nakaseeta, and Ms Moreen Orikiriza.
Blended with the peer to peer engagement from the student leaders, the first day of the CoBAMS Orientation featured presentations on Guidance and Counselling, Life at Campus, Understanding the academic calendar, Makerere University Tuition Policy, Meeting financial obligations within the stipulated deadlines, Information Technology (IT) Services, and Library Resources.
CoBAMS Reaffirms Commitment to Student Success
Welcoming the first-year students, the Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Prof. Edward Bbaale, highlighted the College’s commitment to providing students with a supportive and enriching learning environment through its three schools namely the School of Economics, the School of Business, and the School of Statistics and Planning.
“The College’s support extends beyond academics to include mentorship, counselling, and other student support services aimed at promoting holistic growth and success,” he emphasized.
The Principal encouraged the new students to take full advantage of these opportunities as they transition into university life. He affirmed the College’s commitment to equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and support necessary for academic achievement, personal development, and future professional success.
Students urged to pursue Excellence and Integrity
The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Prof. Sarah Ssali congratulated the first-year students upon joining Makerere University, and encouraged them to embrace the transformative journey of university education.
Prof. Ssali emphasized that students are the University’s most important stakeholders, noting that every academic programme, service, and institutional activity is designed to support their success.
“Recognize your value within the University community and actively participate in orientation activities and academic programmes, develop into independent thinkers, innovators, and future leaders capable of addressing national and global challenges,” she stated.
Highlighting the significance of business and management education, Prof. Ssali noted that the disciplines equip learners with the knowledge and skills to understand economic systems, create value, lead organizations, and contribute to sustainable development.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) reminded students that university life demands responsibility, discipline, and personal accountability. She urged them to prioritize attending lectures, utilizing library resources, participating in discussions, and making productive use of the opportunities available at the University.
Prof. Ssali called upon the students to appreciate the sacrifices made by parents, guardians, taxpayers, and sponsors who have invested in their education by using their time and resources wisely. She advised students to uphold integrity, avoid academic misconduct, and strive to build a positive legacy throughout their time at Makerere University.
She emphasized the importance of making informed personal decisions, maintaining strong professional values, and cultivating networks that would support both their academic and career aspirations. She reaffirmed her commitment to supporting students throughout their academic journey and challenged them to pursue excellence, leadership, and innovation.
University life, Academic Excellence and Discipline
The CoBAMS Deputy Principal, Associate Professor James Wokadala, encouraged the students to embrace university life as an opportunity for academic excellence, personal growth, leadership development, and professional preparation.
He emphasized that university education extends beyond obtaining a degree, urging students to remain committed to learning, make productive use of their time, and actively participate in academic and co-curricular activities.
To attain academic excellence, the Deputy Principal advised students to complete their online course registration promptly, familiarize themselves with the university environment and attend lectures regularly. “Maintaining academic integrity by upholding high standards of discipline, professionalism, and respect for university staff and property,” he stressed.
He reaffirmed the College’s commitment to supporting students throughout their academic journey, assuring them that the doors of the College administration remain open for guidance and assistance.
Prioritizing Mental Health
Commencing the presentation on “Guidance and Counselling: Life at Campus,” Ms. Evelyn Kharono, highlighted the major adjustments that first-year students face, including managing their own time, finances, academic workload, and social life.
“Develop discipline, plan your schedules carefully, and take responsibility for your academic progress, noting that university life requires greater independence than secondary school,” she advised.
Underscoring the importance of mental health, Ms. Kharono encouraged students to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating balanced meals, exercising regularly, and managing the use of smartphones and social media to avoid distractions that could affect their academic performance.
Guidelines on Tuition Payment Procedures
Presenting the “Makerere University Tuition Policy,” the College Bursar, Mr. Peter Mubiru, emphasized the importance of using the official payment systems through the University portal and generating Payment Registration Numbers (PRNs) before making any payments.
Mr. Mubiru encouraged students to pay their tuition within the stipulated time to avoid inconveniences during the examination period.
Student Enrolment and Registration
Building on to the presentation on “Makerere University Tuition Policy,” Mr. Blaise Turyasingura from the Makerere University Revenue Office underscored the importance of understanding Makerere University’s enrolment, registration, and fee payment procedures, emphasizing that timely compliance with these processes is essential for a successful academic journey.
He explained that enrolment confirms a student’s intention to study at the University, while registration enables students to select and officially register the course units they will undertake during the semester.
He urged students to use the portal to generate Payment Registration Numbers (PRNs) before making any payments.
Mr. Turyasingura advised students to be vigilant against fraudulent investment schemes and unrealistic business opportunities that promise unusually high financial returns, urging them to exercise sound financial judgment and safeguard their education funds.
Tapping into Orientation activities
Ms. Stella Butamanya, Registrar of the School of Statistics and Planning under CoBAMS, implored the students to participate in the various orientation activities lined up during the course of the week.
She reminded students to work closely with their elected leaders, the Mentor Support Team (MST), and the orientation staff stationed at various tables, as they are available to offer assistance and ensure a smooth transition into university life.
Utilization of Library Resources
Briefing students on the College Library Resources, Ms. Sylvia Martha Munafu called upon students to utilize the library throughout their university education for coursework, research, revision, and independent learning.
“Make full use of both the physical and digital library resources, including books, journals, databases, and other online learning materials,” she advised.
Access to Digital Services
Ms. Catherine Tumusiime from the I.T. Department encouraged the first year students to utilize the ICT resources on the official YouTube channel @DICTSMakerere.
Key highlight
On Day Two (5thAugust 2026), the orientation programme will feature presentations on students’ responsibilities at Makerere University, campus security, health and wellness, digital services, the Gender Mainstreaming Programme, and other student support initiatives.
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