By Julius Mugaga Tukacungurwa, Umoja Standard.
Makerere University: On Tuesday, April 1, 2025, the Department of Accounting and Finance at Makerere University’s School of Business, in partnership with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), hosted a career workshop aimed at providing comprehensive insights into career prospects and professional development within the accounting and finance sectors.
Participants are seen paying attention to the Mak-ACCA Career Workshop At Makerere University CTF2 Auditorium. Photo by Makerere.
In alignment with their commitment to excellence, Makerere University and ACCA Uganda signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in 2022 to enhance graduate competitiveness and offer accredited courses. At the event, top 10 first-class students who graduated in January 2025 were recognized with awards excellence.
Speaking at the Makerere University-ACCA Workshop, Professor Edward Bbaale, the Principal of Makerere University College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS)underscored the critical importance of bridging the gap between 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.
Professor Edward Bbaale, the Principal of Makerere University College of Business & Management Sciences (CoBAMS) Delivers his Remarks at the Mak-ACCA Career Workshop. Photo by Makerere.
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 colleagues.
He urged students to view 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 also stressed the significance of “building yourself, moulding yourself” through education, training, and experience, advocating for a focus on human capital development over immediate financial gain.
Mak-ACCA Career Workshop fully Attended At Makerere University CTF2 Auditorium. Photo by Makerere.
He emphasized the importance of “volunteering to work, and to register experience” to gain experience and build a professional network. He reaffirmed the commitment to strengthening collaborations to ensure graduates are academically competent and well-prepared to navigate the evolving job market.
On his part, Dr. Eric Nzibonera, the Head of Department of Accounting and Finance at College of Business and Management Sciences highlighted the significance of career guidance events for students at a crucial juncture in their academic lives. He emphasized that these workshops provide a valuable opportunity for students to “make a choice about your career”, a privilege he noted was not always available to students in the past.
Dr. Eric Nzibonera, the Head of Department of Accounting and Finance at College of Business and Management Science (CoBAMS) delivers his address during Mak-ACCA Career Workshop. Photo by Makerere.
Dr. Nzibonera stressed the importance of students leveraging such moment to listen, have their questions answered, and make the correct career path”
He also touched upon the pervasive relevance of accounting and finance, stating that “in all realms of business, in whatever you do, you need some scheme or some kind of accounting that works”, and extending its importance even to their day-to-day lives. He noted, this underlines the universal applicability of financial literacy, whether pursuing careers directly related to the field or not.
Dr. Nzibonera believed, the workshop was a chance for students to learn from experienced professionals, guiding them towards informed decisions about their future careers.
Top ten First Class Graduates of 2025 pose for a photo with Officials after being Awarded for their Remarkable Excellence during Mak-ACCA Career Workshop. Photo by Makerere.
During Career Workshop, Ms. Charlotte Kukunda, the ACCA Uganda Country Manager, reflected on the significance of the partnership with Makerere, discussing the recent accreditation of the BCom qualification and the impact it has on students, “We’re looking at you as strategic business leaders.” This underscores that the ACCA program is not limited to accounting students alone; it embraces a broader range of disciplines and positions students for global competitiveness.
Ms. Charlotte Kukunda, the ACCA Uganda Country Manager delivers her Remarks during the Mak-ACCA Career Workshop. Photo by Makerere.
Ms. Kukunda also addressed the unique opportunities available to students, stating, “Do not short charge yourself, You live in an information age.” She encouraged students to explore the resources on the ACCA website, implying that there are free offerings to enhance their financial acumen.
“The MOU is just the framework within which we are operating”, said Ms. Kukunda further indicating the collaborative efforts to ensure effective implementation of academic programs.
She urged students to perceive themselves as global citizens, stating, “Until you perceive yourself as that, you are the right candidate for pursuing these globally accredited qualifications.”
Top ten First Class Graduates of 2025 pose in One Photo during Mak-ACCA Career Workshop. Photo by Makerere.
She also reinforced the value of connections with industry professionals, assuring students that their future is filled with potential and opportunities.
Ms. Jackie Mbabazi, the Business Relations Manager at ACCA Uganda, highlighted the significance of the ACCA qualification in shaping future leaders, affirming that it is “a forward-thinking qualification” connected to vital sectors and stakeholders globally.
Ms. Jackie Mbabazi, the Business Relations Manager at ACCA Uganda Speaks of Opportunities & Achievements of ACCA during Mak-ACCA Career Workshop. Photo by Makerere.
Recognizing successful affiliates, she shared inspiring stories, mentioning a former student’s ranking, “There’s about 5,000 students, and you can do this,” fostering motivation among students. Ms. Mbabazi emphasized the global reach of the ACCA, assuring students that once they leave Uganda, they will continue to be recognized: “You’re going to be recognized as ACCA, not just ACCA Uganda.”
She also discussed the importance of adapting to technological advancements, stating, “You need to make sure technology is at the heart of what you’re doing.”
Encouraging continuous learning and skill development, she mentioned, “Accountancy provides career security in turbulent times.”
In his keynote address, Mr. Robert Busuulwa, the founder and Managing Partner of Forvis Mazars in Uganda, 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.
Mr. Robert Busuulwa, the founder and Managing Partner of Forvis Mazars in Uganda delivers Keynote Address during Mak-ACCA Career Workshop. Photo by Makerere.
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 ESG, financial crime, and IT consulting. “Nothing to do with numbers,” he stated, highlighting the diverse career paths now available to graduates.
Busuulwa encouraged students to embrace their potential, saying, “Every one of you here has the potential,” and urged them to believe in their capabilities. He warned against limiting beliefs, asserting, “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. “Whatever it is, I’m going to be successful,” motivating the students to pursue their ambitions with determination and confidence.
The Makerere-ACCA Career Workshop provided an invaluable platform for students to engage with industry leaders, gain insights into career prospects, and celebrate academic excellence. The discussions led by prominent figures including Prof. Edward Bbale, Ms. Charlotte Kukunda, Ms. Jackie Mbabazi, and Mr. Robert Busuulwa emphasized the necessity of bridging the gap between academic training and real-world skills.
By fostering partnerships and promoting continuous professional development, Makerere University and ACCA Uganda reaffirm their commitment to equipping graduates with the tools needed to excel in a rapidly evolving job market. As students embark on their professional journeys, they are encouraged to embrace their potential and adapt to emerging trends in the accounting and finance sectors.