Business & Management
Mak equips over 400 refugees with entrepreneurship skills
Makerere University through the college of Business and Management Sciences has equipped over 400 refugees with entrepreneurial skills and awarded them certificates.
The six-month training has seen refugees from over 10 African countries benefit from a project spearheaded by Dr. Anthony Tibaingana.
Dr. Tibaingana said that he conceived the idea in 2019 following research about refugees in which he found that they are one of the vulnerable groups that need help improving their livelihoods.
“They were trained to generate business ideas, to develop the ideas and also market the ideas and transform them into real businesses,” Dr. Tibangana said on January 20, 2024.
Dr. Tibaingana said he wanted refugees to be self-reliant and grow economically to support their families and also thrive economically in the business arena.
“We awarded them certificates such that even when they leave this country and go to other countries, they will have a skill that they can use to survive,” Dr Tibaingana said adding, “Uganda is the second country in hosting refugees and there is need for avenues to integrate the refugees into economic activities to reduce on the crime rate in the country.”
The Bondeko Refugee Livelihoods Center’s Chairperson, Ms. Patricia Driver, was the guest of honor at the event, advised the beneficiaries to make the most of what little they have while they wait for financial support to arrive.
“Think about working together because, at the end of the day, we are always strong when we are together. Everything on this earth starts small. This is a new start for all of you to change your lives. Be ambassadors of your fellow refugees who did not make it to this training and stay committed to changing your lives and those of your families once and for all,” Ms. Driver said.
Dr. Jude Thaddeo Mugarura, the head of Department Marketing and Business at COBAMS, said they were committed to supporting the refugees in their businesses even after the training.
Additionally, Dr. Mugarura mentioned that they would continue to provide mentorship and guidance to ensure the refugees’ success in their entrepreneurial endeavors.
In addition to praising Dr. Tibaingana for his research, Mr. Ezra Byakutangaza, a representative of the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF), promised on behalf of the Fund to continue funding any projects that have an impact on the lives of the nation’s most vulnerable citizens.
He also highlighted the potential for these projects to create a positive ripple effect, not only improving the lives of refugees but also contributing to the overall development and prosperity of the nation.
During the training, the research team partnered with Movit Products Limited to provide practical hands-on experience and networking opportunities for the students.
Mr. Robert Ggoobi Kitenda, the head of marketing Africa at Movit Products Limited, said their partnership with Makerere in training these refugees was to help them create jobs and have income-generating businesses that could support their families.
“We want you to use reliable products that will keep your clients and also market your businesses to prospective clients. What we have given you is knowledge and that is your compass. If you follow your compass, you will be able to live up to your expectations,” Mr. Ggoobi said.
Many refugees are not recognized even though they have qualifications from their home countries, according to Ms. Samantha Simbi, Administrative Assistant at the Association of Refugees with Disabilities in Najjanankumbi (ARD). However, since they have received training from Makerere University, they are now prepared to even apply for jobs.
Ms. Simbi highlighted that the lack of recognition of refugees’ qualifications often leads to underemployment or unemployment. She further emphasizes that the training they received from Makerere University has equipped them with the necessary skills and knowledge to compete in the job market, increasing their chances of securing employment opportunities.
Ms. Everline Amokol, the Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning (MEAL) Officer, at the Bondeko Refugee Center, urged the refugees to seize the chance to start over and seek out new opportunities rather than giving up because they were no longer in their home countries.
“Don’t deny yourself social lives because you never know what will happen tomorrow. Try to forget the trauma that you are a refugee,” she added.
Mr. Ismail Ibrahim Ali Mohammed, the leader of the Somali community, said they will use the skills and knowledge gained to change their economic narrative and tap into opportunities available in Uganda.
“Today marks not just the end of our academic endeavors but the commencement of a thrilling adventure in the world of innovation, risk-taking, and leadership,” Ali Mohammed said.
He added: “In the realm of business, we are not merely graduates: we are architects of our destinies, builders of enterprises, and visionaries of change. The skills we have acquired here from financial acumen to strategic thinking, serve as the foundation for the challenges that lie ahead.”
Ali Mohammed tipped the graduates to collaborate and network with one another while embarking on the new journey of business.
“Build relationships, look for other viewpoints, and never undervalue the strength of a cohesive team. Collaboration fosters creativity and moves us closer to common success in today’s linked world, the speaker said.
The trained refugees originate from Somalia, DR Congo, South Sudan Burundi, Rwanda, Tanzania Comoros, Kenya, Ethiopia and Eritrea. The training took place in different communities including Kisenyi, Najjanakumbi, Kawempe, and Kireka among others.
This is the second time Makerere University is offering training to refugees in entrepreneurial skills, with the first cohort having graduated in 2021/2022 financial year from which over 300 people were trained.
This time, out of the 435 trainees, about 130 were Ugandans who live in refugee communities as per the 2006 Refugee Act as amended, that calls for the training of 30 percent of local people when training refugees in any activities.
Research team
- Dr. Anthony Tibaingana (PI)
- Ms. Nantale Hanifah
- Ms. Betty Tuhaise
- Prof. Faisal Buyinza
- Ms. Catherine Twongyeire.
- Mr. Ronny Mulongo
The Statistics and Data Science (SDS) Working Group training kicked off on Monday, 20th January 2025, and will run until 24th January 2025. This training, an initiative by the college, aims to build capacity in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) among its members.
Participants are being equipped with a wide range of skills, covering topics such as text mining, unsupervised learning, neural networks, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and more. The training is facilitated by expert data scientists from the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), Housing Finance Bank, and the School of Statistics and Planning (SSP).
The SDS Working Group comprises academic staff at the School of Statistics and Planning (SSP) whose research interests focus on statistical learning and AI.
On January 21, 2025, Mr. Kiyingi Simon Peter and Mr. Tusubira Brian from URA led an engaging session on the practical applications of machine learning algorithms in day-to-day activities. They demonstrated how components fed into ML models are used to classify taxpayers into high-risk and low-risk categories, showcasing the transformative potential of AI in optimizing operations.
Dr. Margaret Banga, the Dean of the School of Statistics and Planning (SSP), emphasized the transformative impact of the training on both the academic and professional development of the participants. She commended the expert trainers from the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) and other partnering institutions for their practical and insightful contributions to the sessions. Dr. Banga noted that the training is a significant step toward enhancing the teaching methodologies and research capabilities of the faculty. “By equipping our staff with advanced skills in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, we are empowering them to deliver cutting-edge knowledge to our students and conduct impactful research that addresses real-world challenges,” she remarked.
The training is a testament to the SSP’s forward-thinking approach to education and research in statistics and data science. The integration of topics such as neural networks, text mining, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) underscores the need for multidisciplinary expertise in an increasingly data-driven world. Dr. Banga highlighted that this capacity-building effort aligns with the college’s strategic objectives of fostering innovation and staying ahead in the rapidly evolving fields of data science and statistical learning.
The Dean further stressed the importance of partnerships with organizations like the Uganda Revenue Authority and Housing Finance Bank, which provide invaluable industry perspectives. These collaborations ensure that academic training is not only theoretical but also applicable to practical challenges in sectors such as taxation, finance, and public administration.
In conclusion, Dr. Banga reaffirmed her commitment to continuous learning and development within the School of Statistics and Planning. She expressed confidence that the knowledge gained through the training would translate into improved academic delivery, enriched research output, and a stronger contribution to societal and economic transformation through the application of advanced data science methodologies.
On January 20, 2025, the Public Investment Management (PIM) Centre of Excellence at Makerere University commenced a three-day training program titled “Essentials of Public Investment Management.” The workshop, held at the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), aims to enhance the capacity of public service officials in planning, executing, and evaluating public investment projects.
The training workshop was officially opened by Prof. Edward Bbaale, who, in his opening remarks, expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development for their financial support and pivotal role in identifying and nominating participants for the program. He acknowledged the contributions of Permanent Secretaries, Vice Chancellors, and Executive Directors in ensuring representation from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) of the Ugandan government.
Prof. Bbaale commended the collaborative efforts of Makerere University faculty, the Ministry of Finance, and the National Planning Authority in designing and delivering the training curriculum. He emphasized that the program reflects Makerere University’s commitment to fostering excellence in public investment management through capacity-building initiatives.
The training covers a comprehensive range of topics, including project preparation, the Integrated Bank of Projects (IBP), procurement processes, Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), monitoring and evaluation, and the integration of climate change and social risk management in project planning. Participants will gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience in preparing real-world projects across vital sectors such as health, education, roads, electricity, and water.
Prof. Bbaale also highlighted the importance of advancing participants’ expertise through future modules in financial and economic appraisal of projects. He encouraged participants to consider enrolling in advanced training programs offered in collaboration with Cambridge Resources International and Queen’s University, Canada. Successful completion of these advanced modules will lead to a tripartite certification from Makerere University, the Ministry of Finance, and Queen’s University.
In addition to training, the PIM Centre of Excellence engages in research, outreach, and advisory services. Prof. Bbaale outlined ongoing projects, such as revising Development Committee guidelines for the Ministry of Finance and assessing project performance since the first National Development Plan (NDP I). He noted the Centre’s recent milestone—the successful hosting of the Public Investment Management Conference in October 2024—which evaluated the state of public investments in Uganda and charted the way forward.
The program participants, drawn from various government institutions, were encouraged to leverage the training to drive positive change in their respective roles. “This marks the beginning of your journey to becoming experts in Public Investment Management. Your commitment will not only enhance public service efficiency but also contribute to Uganda’s economic transformation,” said Prof. Bbaale.
The workshop is coordinated by the PIM Centre of Excellence Secretariat under the leadership of Dr. Sseruyange. The Centre remains steadfast in its mission to build capacity, promote research, and foster innovation in public investment management. At the end of the training, participants will be awarded dual certificates from Makerere University and the Ministry of Finance, recognizing their dedication to professional development.
This initiative underscores Makerere University’s role as a key player in national capacity-building and economic development through education and innovation. For God and My Country.
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.
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