Business & Management
First Entrepreneurship Congress: Businesspersons tipped on using AI to grow companies
Instead of taking jobs away from people, artificial intelligence is meant to broaden people’s perspectives and stimulate the production of new content. By automating repetitive and mundane tasks, artificial intelligence allows individuals to focus on more creative and complex aspects of their work. This shift can lead to increased innovation and the exploration of new ideas, ultimately benefiting both individuals and society as a whole.
This was the main message at the first ever Uganda Entrepreneurship Congress and Exhibition, organized by the Department of Marketing and Management, College of Business and Management Sciences, on November 16 and 17, 2023.
With the topic “Adapt and thrive within the new normal of AI,” the congress featured breakout sessions, a panel discussion, and a keynote address on the first day. At the Yusuf Lule CTF auditorium, seasoned businesspeople and industry insiders shared their experiences with up-and-coming entrepreneurs, emphasizing that entrepreneurship is a means of bringing about the socioeconomic development of the nation.
The numerous advantages of artificial intelligence (AI) in the fields of agriculture, health, education, tourism, and hospitality have been attested to by academics and business owners. They demonstrated how AI can function quickly, effectively, and efficiently while cautioning against misusing technology and treating it as a stand-in for people.
Dr Dennis Ngabirano, the founder of Psalms Food Industries, said: “AI is about working smart, not about working hard… But as we apply AI, we must be doing the right things and aim to remain agile. To achieve success, you need a mindset change – when everyone is sitting, you stand up; when everyone stands up, you stand out; when many people stand out, make yourself outstanding; and when many become outstanding, become the standard.”
Like anything else, entrepreneurship and AI are not without danger, Ngabirano advised.
Like any relationship, a business has dangers and problems, some of which are self-inflicted. Resilience and patience are crucial. Never launch a business without doing your homework, and keep researching once you are operating it as new obstacles will inevitably arise, particularly as the company expands.
He advised entrepreneurs to motivate their staff and place them where their talents fall, and maintain discipline throughout the organisation.
It is unfounded to worry that AI will become self-sufficient and cause widespread joblessness. Adventure Vacation Safaris’ managing director, Farouk Busuulwa, issued a warning and made the case that artificial intelligence (AI) will make some jobs obsolete, but it cannot replace human labor. Rather, employment will increase, particularly in the content creation industry. Certain repetitive tasks will vanish, and your position will be taken over by the AI user. There is no justification for not being adept in AI since you risk being left behind if you don’t learn how to prosper in this field.
As AI continues to advance, it is important for individuals to adapt and acquire the necessary skills to work alongside AI systems. Embracing AI technology can lead to new opportunities and job creation, especially in fields that require creativity and critical thinking. It is crucial to recognize the potential benefits of AI rather than fearing its impact on employment.
The chief marketing officer of Next Media, Edwin Danze, argued that the audience should access and learn how to use the many AI tools available on the internet, the majority of which are free.
The first day also saw some breakaway sessions from organisatiosn such as URA. Isaac Aijuka, from the Tax Education Unit of Uganda Revenue Authority emphasized the need for business people to keep records to avoid audits and penalties. He did, however, state that one is entitled to contest the assessment and punishment or file an appeal. He discussed a wide range of subjects, such as the advantages of voluntary disclosure, the consequences of tax evasion, the process of becoming a tax agent, revenue taxes and non-revenue taxes, taxation principles, and economic independence.
He said that a nation must be able to use the money it receives to fund its budget in order to be considered fully autonomous, which Uganda is still unable to do. He clarified that the goals of URA are to increase tax collection and promote voluntary compliance. After collecting taxes, URA gives them to the Parliament and the Ministry of Finance for suitable use.
The second day of the congress saw the opening of the seventh students’ entrepreneurship expo and a blood donation clinic by Uganda Red Cross Society and Uganda Blood Transfusion Services.
Students of Bachelor of Business Administration and Bachelor of Commerce, in teams of three to eight members, exhibited a wide variety of ideas, prototypes and innovations. Evaluators went around the stalls, posing questions, offering guidance and marks.
Some of the innovations exhibited included; a solar cook stove, re-usable sanitary pads, automated irrigation system, production plant for noodles among others.
The congress and exhibition were sponsored by Psalms Food Industries, Post Bank, Nivana Water, HZG Group, Vision Group, Legend Events & Hospitality, Iguru Consult, NBS TV, Feed Future, National Coffee Research Institute, Uganda Revenue Authority, KCCA, Uganda Red Cross Society, FlexiPay, Rotary Club of Kitante, Centenary Bank and Housing Finance Bank.
Business & Management
School of Economics Hosts Team Building Event, Celebrates Excellence with Awards
On Wednesday, January 15, 2025, the School of Economics at Makerere University organized a vibrant team-building activity in the scenic surroundings of Buwatte. This initiative aimed to foster stronger bonds among staff members, celebrate outstanding achievements, and set a collaborative tone for the year ahead.
The day was filled with a variety of activities designed to promote teamwork and camaraderie. Staff members enthusiastically participated in interactive games, lively discussions, and fun challenges that brought out their competitive yet collaborative spirit. The games were followed by a hearty lunch, where everyone gathered to share stories, laughter, and a sense of community. The event culminated in a joyous moment of merry-making, which showcased the School’s vibrant culture of inclusivity and togetherness.
The occasion also served as a platform to honor outstanding individuals who had excelled in their roles over the past year. The award for the best journal paper was presented to the Dean, Prof. Ibrahim Mike Okumu, in recognition of his exemplary contribution to academic research and publication. Meanwhile, the coveted Teacher of the Year Award, as voted by students, was bestowed upon Mr. Fred Kasalirwe for the second consecutive year. This recognition underscored his dedication to delivering engaging and impactful learning experiences.
In his address, Prof. Okumu expressed heartfelt appreciation for his colleagues’ hard work and commitment, which he credited for the School’s numerous achievements in 2024. He extended special congratulations to the winners of the Vice Chancellor’s Excellence Awards, acknowledging their contribution to enhancing the university’s reputation for academic excellence.
Prof. Okumu emphasized the importance of sustaining the spirit of teamwork, which he described as a cornerstone for the School’s continued success. He encouraged his staff to embrace collaboration as they embark on new academic and administrative pursuits in 2025.
The team-building event was not only a celebration of the past year’s accomplishments but also a rallying call for a productive and united future. Staff members left the event reinvigorated and motivated to uphold the School’s vision of academic excellence and impactful scholarship. As the School of Economics enters the new year, this memorable day in Buwatte stands as a testament to the power of unity, shared purpose, and the collective commitment to shaping a brighter future for the institution.
Nine members of staff from the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) at Makerere University were honored with the Vice Chancellor’s Excellence Awards during the institution’s 75th graduation ceremony. The awards were presented at a special graduation luncheon, where the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, recognized exceptional lecturers and researchers across various categories—early, mid, and senior career—as well as outstanding educators based on student evaluations.
Namugenyi Christabellah and Richard Ssempala were awarded in the category of early career scholars. The two were recognized for their exemplary research contributions, each achieving five publications in 2024. In the mid-career category, Dr. Peter Kisakye emerged as the standout performer with 11 publications, followed by Dr. Anthony Tibaingana, Mushomi John Atwebembeire, and Dr. Ssendawula Kasimu, who each published seven papers during the year.
Dr. Patricia Ndugga, Mr. Fred Kasalirwe, and Dr. Faisal Buyinza were celebrated as the best teachers, following outstanding evaluations from students, showcasing their commitment to delivering high-quality education.
Speaking at the award ceremony, Prof. Nawangwe congratulated the winners and commended their dedication to excellence in teaching and research. “These awards reflect our university’s unwavering commitment to fostering academic and professional excellence. As Makerere University, we take pride in nurturing talent and rewarding those who inspire innovation, dedication, and knowledge creation. Congratulations to all the awardees for setting a remarkable example for others to follow,” he said.
The event was graced by the State Minister for Primary Education, Hon. Joyce Kaducu, who lauded Makerere University for its continued commitment to academic excellence. In her remarks, she stated, “Makerere University’s role in shaping the future of our nation cannot be overstated. These awards are a testament to the caliber of educators and researchers the institution nurtures. I encourage all awardees to continue striving for greater achievements and to inspire the next generation of leaders and scholars.”
At the same luncheon, ACCA Uganda recognized three top-performing students of the Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) program. Ndagire Sarah, Yiga James Mark, and Nabagereka Rebecca, each graduating with an impressive CGPA of 4.68, were awarded plaques in recognition of their outstanding academic performance.
Additionally, the best-performing student in the Master of Economics program, Nalweere Alice, received an award from the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC). The award included a two-year paid training opportunity with EPRC as a research fellow. Overwhelmed with gratitude, Nalweere expressed her appreciation, saying, “I am deeply honored to receive this award. It is not just a recognition of my hard work but also a motivation to contribute meaningfully to economic research and policy development in Uganda. I thank Makerere University for providing an environment that fosters academic excellence and EPRC for this incredible opportunity.”
The graduation luncheon served as a platform to celebrate the institution’s achievements and its unwavering commitment to promoting excellence among its staff and students. The event highlighted Makerere University’s vital role in shaping the academic, research, and professional landscape of Uganda and beyond.
The College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) proudly presented 1,523 graduands on the second day of Makerere University‘s 75th graduation ceremony. Among these, 7 were awarded PhDs, 195 earned master’s degrees, 3 completed postgraduate diplomas, and 1,318 graduated with undergraduate degrees. Female graduands made up 53% of the cohort, with 805 women and 718 men.
Speaking at the event, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, lauded CoBAMS as Makerere’s youngest college but already a beacon of excellence in teaching and research. He noted the College’s pivotal role in linking the University with the government through collaborative projects. Key achievements highlighted include; the Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence (PIM CoE) which was praised for spearheading impactful training programs, building the capacity of officials across various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. The Environment for Development Centre was recognized for attracting grants totaling approximately USD $400,000. These funds supported capacity-building programs in Inclusive Green Economy for senior public servants, five research projects, policy dialogues, and community outreach activities.
The vice chancellor also recognized CoBAMS students who excelled in the Joint Facility for Electives (JFE) competition in Nairobi. Ritah Ahumuza, a Master of Arts in Economics student, achieved an outstanding average of 87.5%, the highest in over five years. She was honored with an award by the African Economic Research Consortium for her stellar performance.
Prof. Nawangwe expressed pride in the College’s strides in fostering innovation, academic success, and strategic partnerships, reinforcing Makerere University’s position as a global academic leader.
The Guest of Honour, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, represented by the State Minister for Primary Education, Hon. Joyce Kaducu, congratulated the graduands and acknowledged the parents for their sacrifices. She urged the students to be proactive contributors to Uganda’s development. “Go into the world and light a candle. Start humbly, face the future with courage, and create jobs rather than dispersing them,” she said.
During the week-long graduation ceremony, 13,658 graduands will receive their awards, including 143 PhDs, 1,813 master’s degrees, 11,454 bachelor’s degrees, and 243 postgraduate diplomas. Of these, 53% are female, and 44% of the PhD recipients are women. The Vice Chancellor noted these statistics as evidence of Makerere’s progress toward gender equity and research-led growth.
Prof. Nawangwe lauded the Government of Uganda’s support through initiatives like the Makerere University Research and Innovation Fund (Mak-RIF), which has enabled cutting-edge research.
Future Direction
The Chancellor, Hon. Dr. Kiyonga, outlined Makerere’s vision for expanding its community outreach and commercialization of research innovations. He proposed strengthening partnerships with private-sector investors to turn academic ideas into viable businesses. Dr. Kiyonga also encouraged the graduands to apply their skills to create opportunities in agriculture, education, and other sectors.
As Makerere celebrates its legacy as a beacon of higher education, CoBAMS exemplifies the transformative impact of education in transforming the economy. The achievements celebrated today reflect the university’s dedication to empowering individuals and fostering national development.
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