The College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) at Makerere University held its inaugural Innovation and Careers Day on Thursday, October 2nd, 2025. The event brought together students from CoVAB and other colleges across the University to engage with industry experts and practitioners. Through interactive discussions and networking opportunities, participants explored existing career pathways and gained insights into the evolving skillsets demanded by today’s job market. The event underscored CoVAB’s commitment to bridging academic training with professional readiness.

The event was held under the theme “Beyond Lab Coats: Expanding Careers in Government and Business” and attracted over 600 students from CoVAB, other colleges within Makerere University, and the Makerere University Business School (MUBS). Apart from pitching the innovation ideas b the students, it featured engaging panel discussions centered on the theme of the day. Esteemed panelists included Dr. Akashaba Andrew, President of the Uganda Veterinary Association; Dr. Nahabwe Innocent, CEO of Galaxy FM and a practicing veterinarian; and Dr. Gabriel Tumwine, a teacher, farmer, writer, and philanthropist; Atuhaire Ronnie, a computer Scientist, among others. Each panelist shared insights into their diverse career journeys and professional engagements, offering students a broader perspective on the opportunities available within and beyond the veterinary and biosciences fields.

In his remarks, Prof. Robert Tweyongyere, Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Resources (SVAR), commended the enterprising spirit demonstrated by the students who successfully organized the event. He noted that, judging by the volume of student-led research proposals submitted to the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC), the college is not only nurturing future scientists but also cultivating a generation of innovators poised to address pressing societal challenges.

While addressing the participants, Prof. Robert Tweyongyere, Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Resources, urged students to “always remain eager to learn,” emphasizing that the College is home not only to innovators but also to academic giants. He highlighted the significance of events like the Innovation and Careers Day, noting that such platforms are essential for growth and reflection. Prof. Tweyongyere encouraged resilience and optimism in the pursuit of resources and opportunities. He reminded students that their presence at Makerere University is a powerful calling, one that positions them as leaders at multiple levels, from their local communities to the national stage.

Dr. Claire Mack Mugasa, Dean of the School of Biotechnical and Laboratory Sciences (SBLS), referenced Uganda’s National Development Plan IV (NDP IV) as she addressed students, urging them to understand the country’s strategic direction. “We are innovators because we are surrounded by challenges. Our biggest problem here is food, how to feed the country’s growing population,” she remarked.

Dr. Mugasa emphasized that student-led initiatives have relevance not only at the national level but also within regional and continental development frameworks. She encouraged students to refine their innovations, noting that “if you sharpen these ideas a little more, you’ll find space everywhere.” She pointed to key NDP IV priority areas, agro-industrialization, tourism development, mineral exploitation, science, and information technology, as critical sectors where student innovations could drive sustainable development and transformation.

Ms. Rita Ndibalekera, the CGC chairperson of CoVAB, commended the organizing committee for their tireless efforts in organizing the event. They included Martha Bwengye, Kato Lawrence Kanyike, among others.