Makerere University Careers Fair 2026
Student Advancement

Makerere Hosts Transformative Careers Fair, Bridging Students to the Future of Work

Caroline Kainomugisha 2 min read

Freedom Square and campus venues became arenas of exchange as Makerere convened employers, development partners, and students around the future of work.

The grounds of Makerere University came alive with energy and ambition as students, graduates, and industry leaders gathered for the 2026 Makerere Careers Fair — an engagement that continues to cement the University’s role as a bridge between academic training and the realities of the modern workplace.

Held in partnership with the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) as part of the wider NSSF Career Expo, and the U.S. Mission to Uganda, the three-day event created a vibrant space where conversations about careers moved beyond theory into lived, practical experience. The Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Freedom Square, and exhibition spaces transformed into arenas of exchange.

Three days, three themes

On 11 March 2026, day one explored “Man or Machine: Exploring AI’s Impact on Careers.” Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero and other speakers challenged students to see technology as reshaping work — demanding adaptability, digital fluency, creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence.

Day two (12 March), led by the United States Mission to Uganda, focused on global opportunities: U.S. university applications, scholarships, visa processes, and fully funded fellowships.

Day three (13 March), under “Connecting potential to purpose: Partnerships for sustainable impact,” brought together Stanbic Bank, Absa Bank Uganda, TotalEnergies Uganda, the Uganda Police, Psalms Food Industries, and other partners.

Partners shaping pathways

NSSF anchored conversations on financial planning and long-term security. Stanbic offered industry perspective on competencies for the financial sector. The U.S. Mission broadened horizons through knowledge exchange. TotalEnergies highlighted innovation in the energy transition — among a strong network of collaborators.

Advancement through partnership

The Careers Fair speaks directly to Makerere’s Advancement agenda: building purposeful, long-term partnerships that extend impact beyond campus. Partners are co-creators in preparing the next generation — not merely sponsors of an annual event.

“The future of work will belong to those prepared to evolve with it. Makerere, through platforms such as this, is ensuring that its students are not merely observers of change but active participants in shaping it.”