By Julius Mugaga Tukacungurwa, Umoja Standard.
Makerere University: On April 14, 2025, the Bank of Uganda, in partnership with the College of Business and Management Sciences at Makerere University, hosted a career talk for economics students. The event, themed “Beyond the Books-Positioning Economics Students for National and Global Relevance,” featured various speakers who shared their student experiences and real-life experiences transitioning into the world of work.
The Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences, Prof. Edward Bbaale, welcomed the team from the Bank of Uganda, highlighting the long-standing collaboration between the university and the bank. He noted that the theme was relevant and timely, emphasizing the importance of exposing students to practical experiences and real-world insights. Prof. Bbaale urged students to listen keenly, ask questions, and make the most of the interaction.
The Dean of the School of Economics, Dr. Ibrahim Mike Okumu, challenged students to utilize opportunities and leverage their education to make a positive impact. He reported that the School of Economics’ collaboration with the Central Bank has been instrumental in developing the curriculum and announced the launch of a Master of Science in Economic and Investment Modelling program.
The Head of Stakeholder Engagement at the Bank of Uganda, Mr. Jonah Waiswa, an alumnus of Makerere University, shared his journey from being a student to becoming a successful professional. He emphasized the importance of academic excellence, self-discipline, and acquiring additional skills relevant to the world of work. Mr. Waiswa highlighted the Bank of Uganda’s mission to foster price stability and a sound financial system and its vision of being a centre of excellence in upholding macroeconomic stability.
Mr. Waiswa defined key concepts such as monetary policy, macro-economic management policies, inflation, and stability of the economy, and stressed the importance of controlling inflation. He also emphasized the need for students to understand the values of the Bank of Uganda, including integrity, accountability, transparency, professionalism, inclusivity, and innovation.
The Policy Engagement Coordinator, Dr. Peter Babyenda, and lecturer Mr. Fred Kasalirwe also shared their experiences and insights with the students. Dr. Babyenda thanked Mr. Waiswa for dedicating time to share his experiences and emphasized the importance of networking and collaboration between the university and policymakers.
The President of the Makerere University Economics Students Society, Mr. Swaibuh Damulira, applauded the Bank of Uganda team for creating time to enlighten students about the world of work. He called for continuity of career guidance initiatives for the benefit of the students.
In his parting remarks, Mr. Waiswa disclosed that officials from the Bank of Uganda would visit Makerere University every year to discuss monetary policy and career prospects at the bank, starting from July 2025. The career talk concluded with a specialized session scheduled for student leaders to visit the Central Bank next month for an in-depth discussion.