On 12th May 2025, the School of Business under the College of Business and Management Sciences at Makerere University, in partnership with Dovetons Consult Ltd, held a graduate training session aimed at equipping students with essential skills for navigating the professional world.
The graduate training session on bridging employability skills targeted final-year students studying Bachelor of Business Administration, and Bachelor of Commerce. The key speakers included: CPA Anthony Kitongo-Team Leader at Dovetons Consult Ltd, Mr. Fred Andema (FCCA, CPA)-Managing Partner at Andema Fred and Associates, Dr. Martin Bakundana-Coordinator of Partnerships and Collaborations at the School of Business, and Associate Professor Godfrey Akileng-the Dean, School of Business.
Officially opening the graduate training session, Dr. Bakundana emphasized the importance of bridging academic knowledge with real-world experience. Dr. Bakundana stated that the initiative is part of a broader effort to enrich academic programs with industry insights, enabling students to transition more smoothly from classroom learning to the demands of the job market. “These engagements are designed to provide students with tools that prepare them for professional excellence beyond the university walls,” he said.
Dr. Bakundana spoke candidly about the importance of emotional intelligence and self-awareness. He encouraged students to conduct a personal SWOT analysis, identifying their strengths and weaknesses while assessing the opportunities and challenges ahead. Drawing from his own professional journey, he illustrated how negative feedback, though difficult to accept, can often become a turning point for growth. “Let every challenge be a stepping stone to betterment,” he guided.
The Dean, School of Business, Associate Professor Godfrey Akileng challenged students to think beyong conventional career paths. Your degree is your foundation, but these practical experiences are pillars that will elevate your professional profile,” he said.
He encouraged the students to value the program’s networking opportunities that will shape their future career paths. He emphasized the critical need for students to cultivate independence and initiative as essential traits for navigating today’s competitive job market. He urged young professionals to take ownership of their career paths rather than depending on family connections, noting that maturity and self-drive are key indicators of readiness for the complexities of modern work environments.
Highlighting the evolving nature of the accounting profession, the Dean of the School of Business, pointed out the shift from routine bookkeeping to strategic advisory roles, underscoring the importance of analytical thinking and proactive problem-solving. He asserted that Accountants who position themselves as strategic thinkers will remain relevant and indispensable in an era of automation.
Reflecting on the broader principles that underpin lasting success—integrity, discipline, honesty, and hard work, he implored the students to use their university years not just for academic achievement, but for building a strong values-driven professional identity.
CPA Kitongo delivered a compelling message on the importance of personal branding and professionalism. “First impressions matter,” he said, urging students to be deliberate when presenting themselves during interviews and networking opportunities. He outlined dressing appropriately, communicating with confidence, and demonstrating a proactive attitude as core components of professional success.
Emphasizing advanced workplace skills, such as critical thinking and problem-solving, CPA Kitongo encouraged students to actively seek knowledge beyond the classroom, leveraging online courses and self-paced learning to stay ahead. “Be the person who takes initiative,” he advised. “Those are the individuals who thrive in competitive environments.”
CPA Kitongo underscored the critical need for meticulously crafted CVs and job applications. Through real-world examples, he illustrated how poorly prepared documents can immediately disqualify a candidate, regardless of their academic credentials. “Employers pay attention to detail,” he stated. “A single oversight could cost you an opportunity.”
Stressing the critical importance of practical skills in today’s job market, CPA Kitongo highlighted how the program’s hands-on approach builds this essential competence. He demonstrated how this 10-12 weeks’ program (4 weeks classroom, 6 weeks fieldwork) bridges the gap between academic theory and workplace realities, urging students to “treat this training as career armor in a competitive world. He explained that the study program scheduled to start in July with an intake of 30 participants, costs UGX 540,000/= covering training and classroom learning with real-world placement.
On behalf of the students, Peter Claveri Kyajja, Speaker of the Student Association expressed deep gratitude to Dr. Bakundana for his continued mentorship and holistic guidance. He commended Dovetons Consult Ltd. and Andema Fred & Associates for their invaluable contributions to the session.
Wrapping up the session, Dr. Bakundana called upon the students to register for further training opportunities provided by the partnering firms.
The Graduate Training Oppotrunity and Information Sharing Session was a resounding success, reaffirming the School of Business’s commitment to producing not just academically qualified graduates, but well-rounded professionals ready to take on the future.