Assoc. Prof. Diana Ntamu (centre in a yellow dress), Director of the MUBS EIIC, in a group photo with facilitators and participants during the PSFU Work Readiness training

The Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), in partnership with Makerere University Business School (MUBS) through the Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Incubation Centre (EIIC), has launched the We Work Programme, a work readiness initiative designed to equip young people with practical skills required to succeed in today’s labour market.

Hosted at the MUBS EIIC Training Room, the programme seeks to bridge the gap between academic learning and the demands of the workplace by equipping participants with competencies in professionalism, entrepreneurship, workplace communication, interpersonal skills, digital ethics, and basic employment and labour laws.

The programme brings together university students, recent graduates, and young job seekers in cohort-based training that combines practical learning, interactive discussions, and experiential activities to prepare them for both formal employment and entrepreneurship. Participants are introduced to workplace expectations, including professional conduct, teamwork, problem-solving, effective communication, personal branding, and responsible digital engagement.

Speaking at the launch, Assoc. Prof. Diana Ntamu, Director of the MUBS Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Incubation Centre, encouraged participants to embrace continuous learning and take advantage of the opportunity to develop competencies that complement their academic qualifications.

“Employers today are looking beyond academic credentials. They need graduates who can communicate effectively, adapt to changing work environments, think critically, and demonstrate professionalism. This programme is designed to equip young people with these essential workplace competencies while nurturing an entrepreneurial mindset,” she said.

Representing PSFU, Ms. Betty Twesiime emphasized the importance of strengthening young people’s employability through practical, industry-driven training. Strategic Partnerships and Institutional Collaboration MUBS NEWS- July 2026 the world of work requires strong collaboration between academia and industry. Through this partnership with MUBS, we are helping participants develop the skills, attitudes, and confidence needed to transition successfully into employment or self-employment,” she noted.

Beyond technical workplace skills, the programme also exposes participants to entrepreneurship as a viable career pathway, encouraging innovation, creativity, resilience, and opportunity identification. Sessions on labour rights and responsibilities further equip participants with a better understanding of workplace policies and professional ethics.

The initiative reflects MUBS’ commitment to producing graduates who are not only academically competent but also equipped with the practical skills, professional values, and entrepreneurial mindset required to thrive in an increasingly competitive and dynamic economy. It also strengthens the School’s role in supporting national efforts to address graduate unemployment through industry-responsive training and innovation.

Participants welcomed the initiative, noting that it provides practical exposure rarely offered through traditional classroom learning and enhances their confidence as they prepare to enter the labour market.

The We Work Programme is expected to run in several cohorts, enabling more young people to benefit from industry-relevant training while strengthening collaboration between MUBS and the private sector in developing a skilled, innovative, and employable workforce.

Source : MUBS Newsletter July 2026