Business & Management
Mak and ACCA Career Workshop: Students tipped on success, professionalism and the future of accountancy
On Tuesday 1st April 2025, over600 students from the College of Business and Management Sciences convened at Makerere University Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium to participate in the Career workshop that provided an invaluable platform for students to engage with industry leaders, gain insights into career prospects and professional development within the accounting and finance sectors.
Organized by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) in Uganda in partnership with Makerere University Department of Accounting and Finance, School of Business under the College of Business and Management Sciences, the Career workshop also presented a platform to celebrate the academic achievements of the ten (10) Bachelor of Commerce students who graduated with First Class degrees-Honours Division during the Makerere University 75th Graduation ceremony held in January 2025.
Prior to the workshop, the Dean, School of Business, Dr. Godfrey Akileng in an interview with the College’s Communication Office, disclosed that celebrating the academic achievements of the students who obtained First Class degrees would inspire the current students to excel. In addition, Dr. Akileng noted that the presence of graduates who excelled at the Career workshop would lead to networking and peer mentorship possibilities with the current students.
During the Career workshop, speakers from Makerere University and ACCA Uganda re-affirmed their commitment to equipping graduates with the knowledge, skills and tools needed to excel in a rapidly evolving job market.
To understand the future of accountancy, students listened to presentations featuring the relevance of the accounting and finance in today’s job market by Dr. Eric Nzibonera; Insights on the collaboration with ACCA by Ms Charlotte Kukunda; Discussion of the global career opportunities in accounting and how ACCA supports professional development by Ms Jackie Mbabazi; and a keynote speech titled, An exploration of the skills and trends shaping the future of the accounting and finance industries in the 21st Century by Mr. Robert Busuulwa.
In his address, the Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences, Prof. Edward Bbaale acknowledged the School of Business for proritising career talks and mentorship sessions for students.
“To the students, the Career workshop presents you with a chance to envision your career, and what you want to be, or what you want to study,” he said.
The Principal underscored the critical importance of bridging the gap between the academia and industry. He highlighted the instrumental role of partnerships, particularly the collaboration between Makerere University and ACCA in equipping students with globally competitive skills and certifications.
Prof. Bbaale emphasized that in the 21st century, this interface isn’t merely an option but “a necessity,” echoing the sentiments of both the keynote speaker, Mr. Robert Busuulwa, and ACCA partners.
He advised students to visualise themselves as “global candidates” and pursue their careers with diligence and passion, taking the lessons from the workshop seriously and seeking continuous professional development. Prof. Bbaale stressed the significance of “building oneself, moulding oneself” through education, training, and experience, advocating for a focus on human capital development over immediate financial gain.
He emphasized the importance of “volunteering to work” in orderto gain experience and build a professional network. He reaffirmed the College’s commitment to strengthening collaborations to ensure graduates are academically competent and well-prepared to navigate the evolving job market.
Dr. Eric Nzibonera, the Head, Department of Accounting and Finance at the College of Business and Management Sciences highlighted the significance of career guidance events for University students. He explained that career workshops provide a valuable opportunity for students to “make a choice about a particular career,” a privilege he noted was not always available to students in the past. Dr. Nzibonera believed the workshop was a chance for students to learn from experienced professionals, guiding them towards informed decisions about their future careers.
Convinced that the workshop presented a golden opportunity to students to learn from experienced professionals, Dr. Nzibonera called upon students to leverage such moments to listen to the respective presenters, prepare to ask questions on professionalism, accreditation and career paths.
Focusing on the relevance of accounting and finance in today’s job market, Dr. Nzibonera reiterated that the accounting profession is very central in the day to day lives of individuals. “Inall realms of business, in whatever you do, you need some scheme or some kind of accounting that works,” he remarked. He noted that this underlines the universal applicability of financial literacy, whether pursuing careers directly related to the field.
The Country Manager, ACCA Uganda, Ms Charlotte Kukunda informed the students who turned up in big numbers, that the Career workshop was anchored in the programmes and activities that Makerere University and ACCA Uganda agreed to undertake when both entities signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in July 2022.
Ms Kukunda affirmed that ACCA Uganda values its strategic partnership with Makerere University, which has been mutually beneficial and fruitful. To expound this argument, Ms Kukunda highlighted the achievements which included: 660 students enrolled for ACCA programme, curriculum reviews of Makerere University accounting programmes, re-accreditation of the Bachelor of Commerce Accounting in June 2022, annual recognition of best accounting students since 2022, tutor capacity building workshops conducted at the College, lecturers granted access to the Education Hub, and hosting of three student career workshops annually.
She outlined the areas of collaboration with Makerere University as follows: accreditation of accounting programmes, co-development of teaching programmes that align and support the University edge resources and professional insights, employability through supporting students’ career and skills development, access to ACCA member networks to support Makerere University guest lectures/panels/conference speakers, and faculty skills development support in their teaching, learning and assessment.
The Country Manager said the Career workshop is planned, deliberate and intentional because ACCA classifies Makerere University students as strategic business leaders who are being nurtured, trained and prepared to drive the economy. She clarified that the ACCA programme is not limited to only students studying accounting. According to Ms Kukunda, the ACCA programme embraces a broader range of disciplines and positions students for global competitiveness.
Ms. Kukunda encouraged students to explore the information resources on the ACCA website to tap into the opportunities that will enhance their financial acumen. She urged students to perceive themselves as global citizens. “When you perceive yourself as that, you are the right candidate for pursuing these globally accredited qualifications,” she said. She reinforced the value of connections and valuable networks with industry professionals, assuring students that their future is filled with potential and opportunities.
Feeding into Ms Kukunda’s presentation, Ms Jackie Mbabazi, the Business Relationship Manager at ACCA Uganda highlighted the significance of the ACCA qualification in shaping future leaders. She affirmed that ACCA is “a forward-thinking qualification” connected to vital sectors and stakeholders globally.
Ms. Mbabazi emphasized the global reach of the ACCA. “We are present in 180 countries. As you plan your professional journey, consider the ACCA qualification that is going to make you professional. Technology has enabled us to work beyond borders. Having globally recognized qualifications such as ACCA positions you to work globally,” she elaborated.
Ms. Mbabazi further pointed out the “forward-thinking qualification” attributes of ACCA. These include: Empowering individuals to be digitally relevant, creating ethical and trusted professionals, global recognition, professionals who add value, access to the most up to date syllabus on the market, and continuous learning for trainees as well as access to the global employability platform.
She also discussed the importance of adapting to technological advancements, stating, “You need to adapt and make sure technology is at the heart of what you are doing.”
Ms. Mbabazi articulated that ethics is at the centre of the ACCA programme. “ACCA programmes uphold ethics in building professionals. I urge you to avoid any form of fraud,” she emphasized.
The captivating presentations from the College of Business and Management Sciences and ACCA Uganda set the pace for the students to listen to a powerful keynote speech. Dr. Martin Bakundana introduced the keynote speaker, Mr. Robert Busuulwa, the founder and Managing Partner of Forvis Mazars in Uganda with over 30 years of tested and proven experience.
Mr. Robert Busuulwa’s keynote speech embodied words of wisdom and lived experiences that require an individual to be responsible for his or her destiny.
He guided the students that being successful is a personal choice and commitment. “If you want to be successful, dedicate time and study success,” he advised.
“When you plan to do something, focus and concentrate. Pursue your ambitions and career aspirations with determination and confidence,” he added.
He castigated the popular phrase where individuals believe that it is the government responsible for their success and development. That statements calling upon the government to “assist” individuals should be discarded. “True liberation is about understanding who you are, your strengths and weakness, and what you can do as an individual to leverage your strength,” he stated.
He emphasized the importance of acquiring relevant skills, urging students to consider what they needed to demonstrate to future employers, particularly in light of evolving trends such as AI, robotics, and big data. “What are the skills that you are expected to demonstrate?” he asked, reflecting on the broadening scope of skills in the field.
Using lively examples, the keynote speaker informed the audience that he had to create time to be at Makerere University on 1st April 2025 to speak to the students. He reported that he manages a very tight schedule, but if you want and value something, you work towards it, and ensure it is a possibility.
“I am here because I created time and convinced myself that I should join you today. I love mentorship and interacting with people. I love being here. I have to return to society, what it has given me through qualifications, life and experiences. Through this career workshop, I am exactly doing that,” he said.
Mr. Busuulwa shared anecdotes from his academic journey and connecting with young minds poised for the future. He reinforced the notion that the landscape of accounting has changed dramatically, moving from traditional number-crunching to roles involving Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors, financial crime, and IT consulting.
Mr. Busuulwa mentioned that with the trends in the accounting profession, students and practitioners are presented with diverse career paths.
Mr. Busuulwa encouraged students to understand and appreciate their potential. “Every one of you here has the potential. I urge you to believe in your capabilities,” he said. He cautioned students and young people in general against limiting beliefs. Citing the power of thinking and its effects on the choices that individuals make, he stated, “If you think you can’t do it, you will not.”
He inspired students to actively shape their careers, stressing the need for adaptability and continuous learning. He appealed to the students to always empower their minds and souls with positive statements such as “Whatever it is, I am going to be successful,” he remarked.
The Career workshop moderated by Ms Sylvia Namujjuzi, Assistant Lecturer at the College of Business and Management Sciences assisted by Mr. Jonathan Basalirwa, a third year student, ended on a high note with presentation of awards of excellence to the best ten (10) First Class Honours Division graduates, and a networking session involving the respective speakers and students.
The Principal thanked the Dean, School of Business- Dr. Godfrey Akileng, Dr. Eric Nzibonera, Ms Sylvia Namujjuzi, Mr. John Ogema, the Makerere University Accountancy Bureau, and the team from ACCA Uganda for organizing the Career workshop 2025.
The discussions involving Makerere University staff namely Prof. Edward Bbaale, Dr. Eric Nzibonera, ACCA Uganda-Ms Charlotte Kukunda and Ms Jackie Mbabazi, and the Keynote Speaker Mr. Robert Busuulwa emphasized the necessity of bridging the gap between academic training and real-world skills.
Over 35 public officials from various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) have commenced a two-week intensive training in Financial Appraisal and Risk Analysis in Mbarara. The training is organized by the Public Investment Management (PIM) Centre of Excellence at Makerere University, in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED), the National Planning Authority (NPA), and Cambridge Resources International (CRI).
Speaking on behalf of the Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury, Ms. Esther Ayebare commended the ongoing efforts to strengthen Uganda’s public investment management systems. She highlighted the recent launch of the National Public Investment Management Policy, describing it as a robust and unified framework guiding the entire investment cycle—from planning and appraisal through to implementation and post-evaluation.
Ms. Ayebare further noted other key reforms including the Framework for Tracking Implementation and Performance of Public Investments, the revised Development Committee Guidelines, and the Integrated Bank of Projects, all of which are designed to improve efficiency, accountability, and value-for-money in public investments.
“Each of these reforms plays a key role in enhancing public investment management. I urge you to familiarize yourselves with them and integrate these frameworks into your daily work,” she added.
The Deputy Director of the PIM Centre of Excellence, Prof. Eria Hisali, encouraged participants to actively engage throughout the training and make the most of the opportunity to build their analytical and decision-making capacity. He commended the Ministry of Finance for its continued financial support to the Centre and reaffirmed Makerere University’s commitment to providing high-quality training and research to strengthen public investment governance.
The Manager of the PIM Centre, Dr. John Sseruyange, underscored the importance of the training, emphasizing that the PIM Centre was established to build national capacity in the appraisal, management, and evaluation of public investments. He called on participants to apply the knowledge gained to improve project preparation and implementation within their respective institutions.
Dr. Sseruyange also expressed appreciation to the team of facilitators drawn from Makerere University, MoFPED, NPA, and CRI for their expertise and continued dedication to building Uganda’s human capital for effective public investment management.
The Financial Appraisal and Risk Analysis course is part of a broader capacity-building programme implemented by the PIM Centre aimed at enhancing the skills of public officials in the design, evaluation, and monitoring of development projects to ensure that public investments deliver optimal socio-economic returns for the country.
Business & Management
PIM Centre Holds 9th Steering Committee Meeting, Set to Benefit from World Bank Support
The Public Investment Management (PIM) Centre of Excellence at Makerere University today, October 10th, 2025, held its 9th Steering Committee Meeting to review progress made in the first quarter of the financial year and plan for the months ahead.
The meeting was chaired by Ms. Getrude Basiima, who represented Mr. Hannington Ashaba, Director Budget at the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED). Ms. Basiima commended the Centre for its continued commitment to strengthening public investment management capacity across government institutions.
In her remarks, Ms. Basiima applauded the Centre for successfully hosting the Public Investment Management Conference held in August at Makerere University. The conference attracted key policymakers, development partners, and academics who deliberated on how to enhance the efficiency, sustainability, and impact of public investments in Uganda.
She further shared exciting news that the Government of Uganda has secured funding from the World Bank to support the public investment management function. The PIM Centre, she announced, will be among the key beneficiaries of these funds — receiving support for the construction and acquisition of a permanent home to enhance its institutional sustainability and training capacity.
Reviewing the Centre’s quarterly performance, Ms. Basiima congratulated the team for successfully conducting three specialized trainings in the first quarter, reaching officials from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. These trainings continue to strengthen the technical competencies required for effective project preparation, appraisal, and implementation in line with Uganda’s National Development Plan.
She encouraged the Centre to integrate climate change considerations into its future training programmes, noting that sustainable public investment must now account for environmental resilience and climate adaptation.
The centre team presented the proposed structure/ organogram, the financial performance of 2024/2025, research areas for 2025/2026 and the strategic plan for 2025 – 2030.
The Steering Committee reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the PIM Centre’s vision of becoming a regional leader in building capacity for efficient, transparent, and sustainable public investment management.
Business & Management
Breaking Boundaries in Doctoral Training: COBAMS PhD Colloquium Unites, Equips, and Empowers Scholars
By Moses Lutaaya
Makerere University, COBAMS Conference Hall – Friday, October 3, 2025
In a closing address at the COBAMS Annual Doctoral Colloquium, Prof. Julius Kikooma, Director of the Directorate of Graduate Training (DGT) at Makerere University, urged PhD students to view their research as a vital tool in solving Uganda’s and Africa’s most pressing societal problems.
He reminded students and faculty that doctoral training at Makerere is no longer just an academic exercise, but a strategic national investment.
“PhD is not just about writing a thesis—it is about writing the future of our country, our continent, and indeed our planet,” Prof. Kikooma told participants. “Your research must be part of the solution to the challenges we face as a society.”
Prof. Kikooma began his remarks by reflecting warmly on his longstanding ties with COBAMS, describing it as “home” both professionally and collegially. He praised the college leadership for their foresight in organizing the doctoral colloquium and aligning it with the broader vision of the Directorate of Graduate Training and Makerere University.
He also noted the synergy between the colloquium’s theme and the Directorate’s recent graduate student induction theme which focused on “Positioning Graduate Training in National and Global Trends.” He said that this alignment reflects a growing institutional commitment to making graduate education more responsive to real-world challenges.
Prof. Kikooma emphasized the critical role that doctoral students play in shaping Uganda’s development trajectory.
“While the decision to pursue a PhD is personal, the outcomes of your research must not be. They must become part of our national assets,” he stated.
He encouraged students to look beyond the traditional confines of academia and to consider how their work can inform policy, address community needs, and contribute to sustainable development. In particular, he highlighted urgent national issues such as food insecurity, climate-related disasters, youth unemployment, and underutilized demographic dividends.
“We live in a country where a single flood can disrupt the entire economy. We have fertile soils but continue to face food insecurity. We are a youthful country, but we fear the youth because we lack solutions to productively engage them,” Prof. Kikooma said. “These are problems your research should address.”
Prof. Kikooma also used the platform to announce several ongoing reforms at Makerere aimed at improving the doctoral training experience. These include the introduction of an almanac—a structured academic guide outlining semester-by-semester expectations and milestones for PhD candidates.
He said the reforms were not designed to make the PhD journey easier, but to eliminate unnecessary administrative obstacles and ensure students can complete their programs within the planned three-year period.
“The university is ready for you. We are committed to ensuring that your journey is as smooth administratively as possible,” he affirmed. “But for that to happen, you must play your part.”
Additionally, the Directorate has introduced mandatory credit-based activities beyond thesis writing, such as producing policy briefs and participating in public engagement forums, aimed at equipping students with practical communication and policy translation skills.
Prof. Kikooma proudly noted that Makerere University remains Uganda’s—and the region’s—leading institution in doctoral training. He reaffirmed the university’s commitment to becoming a “trainer of trainers”, emphasizing that no other local institution currently matches Makerere’s capacity in handling doctoral studies.
He called for greater collaboration between students, academic units, and the Directorate, describing DGT as an administrative coordinator that works to support frontline colleges like COBAMS in delivering quality doctoral education.
“We are not just about policy. We are your partners in this journey,” he emphasized. “And together, we can make your research work not just for your academic growth, but for the greater good of the country.”
In his remarks, Associate Professor James Wokadala, Deputy Principal of COBAMS, emphasized the significance of the colloquium, calling it a “timely catalyst” in the academic calendar. He applauded the leadership of the Doctoral School, the Directorate of Graduate Training (DGT), and the organizing team for mainstreaming graduate research into the college’s strategy.
“This initiative aligns perfectly with the university’s focus on graduate training and knowledge regeneration. As a college, we are strategically investing in platforms that enable researchers to contribute meaningfully to academia and society,” Prof. Wokadala said. Drawing from his own PhD journey, he encouraged students to remain resilient and proactive, reminding them that while facilitators provide the spark, “over 90% of the work must be done by the student.”
Prof. Wokadala also paid tribute to Dr. Kasim Sendawula, who was recognized for his voluntary coordination of doctoral activities at both school and college levels. “Dr. Sendawula is a true academic servant — committed, approachable, and selfless. We are grateful for his contribution,” he said.
Prof. Godfrey Akileng, Dean of the School of Business at COBAMS, echoed similar sentiments, applauding the organizing committee and student scholars for their enthusiasm and sacrifice throughout the three-day session. He offered special appreciation to students who, despite personal commitments or distances, showed up without fail. “Some of you paused political campaigns just to be present here. That’s how much this matters,” he noted.
Prof. Akileng formally introduced his graduate coordination team, including Dr. Caroline Twanjire, a recent PhD graduate from Hanyang University in Korea, who will now assist at the school level. He also announced changes in the Master’s coordination team and used the moment to advocate for institutional recognition of voluntary academic roles such as program cordinators. “Mainstreaming these roles in the university structure would enhance efficiency and further strengthen the graduate training ecosystem,” he emphasized.
To the PhD students, Prof. Akileng reaffirmed his commitment. “We are here to serve you. If something is delaying your progress, walk into any school — we are one college, one academic family.”
Dr. Kasim Sendawula, Coordinator of PhD Students at COBAMS, offered a structured evaluation of the colloquium under the theme “Interrogating Knowledge Frontiers: Doctoral Research as a Catalyst for Theory and Practice.” He noted that the program had successfully covered the doctoral journey — from research conceptualization to manuscript development for publication.
“We used a participatory approach that allowed rich engagement with experienced supervisors and presenters. The feedback from students confirms that the structure, content, and delivery were impactful,” Dr. Sendawula stated.
He highlighted key areas appreciated by participants, such as the quality of presenters, sessions on data collection and writing, and the interactive format. Suggestions for improvement included more days, clearer participant evaluation mechanisms, and additional data analysis sessions, which the organizing team committed to explore in future planning.
“This programme has been a success because of your active engagement. Let’s keep the momentum, and we promise to offer you more tailored academic support going forward,” Dr. Sendawula concluded.
Adding the voice of the doctoral students, Ms. Sylvia Namujuzi, Vice President of then newly formed COBAMS PhD Forum, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the university leadership, facilitators, and organizing committee on behalf of the PhD student body. She described the colloquium as “a rigorous but transformative space of learning, reflection, and growth.”
“This gathering has empowered us with insights not just to enhance our academic work, but also to transform our institutions and contribute to society,” she said.
Ms. Namujuzi extended executive committee’s’ gratitude to Professor Edward Bbaale, Principal of COBAMS, for championing the creation of the COBAMS PhD Forum — a unifying platform for scholars across the three schools to collaborate and support each other. She also acknowledged the Dean of the School of Business, Prof. Akileng, for opening the colloquium to the entire college, recognizing the growing need for cross-disciplinary dialogue among PhD scholars.
She thanked the facilitators, both present and in absentia, for generously sharing knowledge, and credited the organizing committee for their tireless work behind the scenes. Special appreciation went to her fellow student leaders, including Mr. Okelo George (President), Mr. Emmanuel Othieno (Finance), and others managing secretarial, coordination, and publicity roles across schools.
Student representative Mr. Vanecious Bbale Kirwana delivered a heartfelt message of appreciation on behalf of the PhD cohort, capping off three transformative days of intellectual engagement, mentorship, and peer collaboration.
Thanking the university and college leadership for both creating and actively supporting the forum, Mr. Kirwana emphasized the importance of in-person interaction, noting how the physical gathering fostered academic bonding and peer support among doctoral students.
Commending the emergence of organic student-led initiatives — such as a newly formed data analysis platform — Mr. Kirwana encouraged further informal groupings and knowledge-sharing spaces among students, building on the momentum of the colloquium.
“Let’s continue to create more spaces for learning among ourselves. That, in itself, is one of the greatest outcomes of this gathering,” he concluded.
-
General4 days agoCall for Applications: Government Sponsorship 2026/27
-
General2 weeks agoVice Chancellor Updates Media on DVC AA Appointment, Acquisitions, Research & Various Issues
-
General1 week agoStrengthening Collaboration between Makerere University and the University of Groningen
-
Computing & IS2 weeks agoICT Bootcamp for Vacists (P7, S4 & S6), Students & Professionals
-
General2 weeks agoMakerere and Nelson Mandela University Move to Actualize Existing MoU