Business & Management
Economists Offer Policy Recommendations to Curb Youth Unemployment in Uganda
Economists from the Makerere University’s School Economics have provided policy options to help mitigate youth unemployment in Uganda.
A team of researchers led by Prof. Edward Bbaale as Principal Investigator assisted by Dr. Susan Kavuma, Peter Babyenda, Brenda Kiconco, Anitah Kyamugaba , Hennery Sebukeera and Nakigudde Claire under took a research project titled, ‘ “Empirical Review of Youth Employment Policies in Uganda”with technical and financial support from partnership for economic policy Nairobi Kenya funded by Mastercard Foundation.
The study looked at insights from different people on how youth unemployment and under employment can be solved. The research project intended to review the youth employment policies, legislations, interventions and programs with the aim of identifying the best practices for promoting youth employability, productivity, and opportunities among the youth.
The researchers worked closely with the different Institutional framework concerned with youth affairs including in the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development and the Uganda Bureau of Statistics, Ministry of Education and Sports, National Planning Authority, Federation of Uganda Employers, National Organization of Trade Unions and parliament among others
The study findings were presented during the dissemination workshop held on 9th November 2022 at Protea Hotel in Kampala to members of the academia, representatives from government ministries, departments and agencies, the Private sector, civil society organizations, representatives of the youth from different divisions of Kampala and other districts and key collaborators.
The dissemination workshop was intended to validate the findings of the study through contributions, corrections,and an evaluation of the opportunities, challenges, chances, the gaps, costs of and thorough practical policy options with the aim of enriching the report and the policy recommendations in particular to government.
Representing the Principal, College of Business and Management Sciences, the Dean School of Economics and also PI Prof. Edward Bbaale noted that youth unemployment and under employment is one of the policy issues that warrant due attention.
He observed that Uganda is one of the youngest and fastest growing populations in the world with 54% of the population below 18 years of age and yet the population is growing very fast at 3.4 %.
Bbaale added that Uganda is also faced with a serious problem of high school dropout rate. Data from the Ministry of Education indicates that on average one million pupils that enroll in primary one, only 600 thousand sit the primary leaving examination and this number reduces to 300 thousand at the Uganda Certificate of education and reduces further to 100 thousand to those that go for the advanced certificate.
“The question is where these young men do and women go and who is the messiah. Is TVET, the different skilling programmes the messiah for Uganda? and more broadly even those that graduate at higher level, the question is that whether the problem is at the demand level to the extent that the economy is so much contracted and that there is no space for people to come and take employment meaning that the economy is growing without creating jobs”. Bbaale questioned.
Aware that the services sector is driving growth in Uganda and the agricultural sector is well behind services and industry as far as GDP is concerned, Bbaale noted that this means that there has been sectorial shift in GDP composition- at one time it was agriculture ahead of industry and services but now we have services ahead of the two.
“Whereas we have had the sectorial shifts in the GDP composition, there are no sectoral shifts in employment and majority of our people still depend on agriculture and there is a smaller cake despite its holding 60% of our people coming with questions of low productivity and poverty.
And so given that, if majority of Ugandans are not employed in the services sector which is leading the GDP composition, can we say our economy is having a jobless profile? We are growing without jobs and then on the other hand, can we say it is the supply side and skills mismatch? Do those people that graduate every year in universities and other institutions match the available opportunities?.Prof. Bbaale questioned.
Prof. Bbaale also stressed that the issue of youth unemployment and under employment is topical and has gone on for sometime but not leading the same in finding a lasting solutions for the youth unemployment problem.
He congratulated the research team for successfully implementing the study and partners – the Mastercard Foundation through the partnership for economic policy in Nairobi for sponsoring the different activities of the project as well as the stakeholders from MDAs, Private sector, CSOs and development partners for contributing wonderful ideas.
Unemployment associated with Labor market information system, curriculum design and population growth
The Assistant Commissioner in charge of Youth Affairs in the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development Kyateka Mondo thanked the PI and team for putting the research together saying, they are looking forward to receiving what the university thinks is the solution to unemployment question in Uganda.
In addition to addressing the issue of labour market information system, the commissioner observed that it is prudent for training institutions to interface with employers while designing the curriculum but also address the issue of population growth.
“The problem in Africa is that we train today what was needed for yesterday. Are the training institutions in touch with the people who employ? Do you have a time where we interface with the Mukwanos and UMAs of this world and all the people who need the work force?
Second,… we are likely not to break even until we address the issue of population growth. As long as we are producing as if there is no tomorrow. As long as we believe in Genesis that go out there and multiply and fill the world.How are you going to prepare and skill them to get quality education. And the man who tells you to go and fill the world produced only one son –Jesus Christ.”, Mondo stated adding that:
“.. until the population question is addressed and until the training institutions sit together with who is going to employ their products, , there will be nothing new that we are going to hear. The skills given at training institutions do not match the labour markets. So until we move away from the book of lamentations to the book of acts and we act.
Fix the issue of so many children, fix the issue of poverty among our people, fix the issue of a functional and prudent labour market information system. We need action today to bring hope to so many young people in this country but we also have to do mindset deconstruction”. Mondo asserted.
Mondo further observed that over 45 universities are churning out young people every year, operating under a jobless economic growth in that, the economy is not producing the jobs that are badly needed. He added that if unemployment question is fixed, many other problems like poverty, drug abuse early pregnancies, theft, suicide would have been fixed.
Formal employment and trends in youth unemployment in Uganda
Presenting the study findings Peter Babyenda noted that formal employment share of government jobs declined from 6.8% in 2012/13 to 6.5% in 2016/17 while total formal private employment declined from 200,000 jobs in 2012/13 to 141,000 in 2016/17. In 2016/17, only 13,000 (9%) youth had a formal private job.
On trends in youth employment, Babyenda reported a fluctuating Labour Force Participation Rate – 57% (2016/17), 66% (2017/18), 62% (2018/19), and an increasing youth unemployment rate – 13% (2016/17), 18% (2017/18), 17% (2018/19)
Babyenda presented worrying statistics on Youth neither in Employment nor in Education or Training (NEETs) estimated at 39%. This is worrying – where are they? He said there are twice young ladies in NEET as men largely found in in Greater Kampala, Northern Uganda and Western region which is a big threat to Uganda’s social cohesion and political stability.
NEETS according to Babyenda are largely attributed to low educational attainment (including among their parents), living in deprived neighborhoods, low socio-economic status and other barriers to participation like pregnancy or disability.
“The 2018/19 Annual Labour Force Survey report reveals that almost half of the youths (46%) are not qualified for the existing jobs because they do not have required skills.Low wages for youth as the median wage of public sector employees is estimated at UGX 510,000 ($134), while in Private Sector it is estimated at UGX150,000 ($39).
Existing employment policies seem universal and do not segregate persons in formal and informal sectors in their coverage. More so, there is limited evidence to show the expansion of social protection coverage in the informal sector as required by the National Social Protection Policies. It also remain unclear whether the existing youth employment programs are achieving their targets” Mr. Babyenda reported.
Key findings from the evaluation of the different Youth Empowerment Programs (YEP)
The study indicated that although access to youth employment funds had a positive effect on youth business expansion, there was no significant evidence of the fund’s effect on job creation.
Major stakeholders in YEP were not fully fulfilling their mandates; while on the policy front, the findings show that the youth funds have a long-term impact on its intended goals.
Promoting youth entrepreneurship according to this study should be approached holistically (not just through credit) and should target productive sectors with high employment creation potential.
The need for a strong institutional framework including M&E and accountability frameworks and the removal of barriers to youth self-employment were also proposed.
The study disclosed a number of challenges faced by the youth involved in Youth Employment programmes and they included ; Misuse of YEP funds, limited follow-ups of beneficiaries due to inadequate monitoring and supervisory capacity, Political Interference, High default rates (failure repay loans/resolving funds) and Poor group formation dynamics
Beneficiaries according to this research, reported delayed release of funds to youth groups or beneficiaries by the ministry of finance and implementing agencies – MoGLSD, local governments, Corruption, Inadequate information on existence of youth, Education miss-match affecting youth employability AND Limited preparation of beneficiaries
The study notes that common youth challenges in Uganda include: Unemployment, underemployment and undignified work.
The study further notes that Uganda has initiated a number of Youth Employment programs over time such as the youth livelihood fund, presidential youth initiatives, youth skilling programs and free vocational education among others.
Many Youth (39%) still either not in School or employment and more among females (50.5%) and the need for specific Policy change to ensure that the youth obtain right skills for existing employment opportunities in the country.
Policy recommendations
The study recommends that government prioritise policies that create jobs and address youth unemployment/under-employment and strengthen the YEP’s Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning (MERL) system.
The study proposes the development of a clear resource mobilization strategy during the YEP design phase and expansion of YEPs into new locations with updated priority areas.
The policy initiatives should be SMART and should reinforce labour market participation, especially regarding discouraged workers and women.
Other policy recommendations include benchmarking with other countries that have succeeded; Reduce of political interferences in the bureaucratic process of the YEP implementation; Increase budget allocation to YEP and also improve the adequacy and effectiveness of the technical support unit of these programs.
In addition, the study advocates for holistic youth employment policy initiatives as opposed to piecemeal, ad-hoc, under-funded and poorly implemented programs. The programs should be rooted within a wider framework that places structural transformation of the country such as NDP III, Vision 2040, among others.
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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