10th Annual ASAMU SUMMIT

The Accounting Students Association of Makerere University (ASAMU) held its 10th Annual Summit on Wednesday, November 5th, 2025, at the Digital Lab, Makerere University Business School (MUBS). The event, themed “Aligning Academic Theory to Skilful Practice: Bridging Learning and Industry to Broaden Perspectives of Next-Generation Professionals,” attracted accounting and finance students from MUBS, Makerere University, Uganda Christian University (UCU), and other institutions, including MAT Abacus Business School. 

The summit provided a dynamic platform for dialogue, knowledge and skill exchange. Bringing together academia, professional bodies, and the private sector to explore how classroom learning can translate into practical, work-ready skills. 

The event kicked off with a panel discussion, a guided question-led conversation that explored the theme from multiple perspectives of academic, professional, and industry-based. Panellists dissected how the integration of Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) can bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world practice, a vision strongly aligned with the DESIRED Project’s objectives. 

There was also a Presidential Address delivered by Mr. Nicholas Tendo Ssekitende, President of ASAMU, who emphasized the need for accounting students to take initiative in developing employability skills, networking with professionals, and positioning themselves for a competitive job market. 

The event was further enriched by insightful presentations from leading industry organizations. Deloitte Uganda shared perspectives on “Shaping the Digitally Enabled Professional”, highlighting the importance of technology-driven skills in modern accounting. The Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Uganda (ICPAU) addressed “Ethical Leadership and Professional Values – Anchoring Growth and Integrity,” reinforcing the importance of ethics as the backbone of sustainable professional practice. ABSA Bank Uganda presented on “Empowering Students to Transition from Learning to Professional Impact,” focusing on career readiness and employability. BDO Uganda discussed “Building Applied Skills and Professional Intelligence,” emphasizing the role of continuous learning, adaptability, and professional judgment. 

A key highlight of the summit was the participation of Prof. Ngozi Joe-Ikechebelu from Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Nigeria, who gave remarks underscoring the value of reskilling and upskilling as pathways to global competitiveness. She encouraged cross-country collaborations and exposure, noting that international partnerships such as those under the DESIRED Project offer students practical opportunities to apply academic knowledge in diverse contexts. She was the representative of the DESIRED Project Coordinator (Prof Samuel Sejjaaka) at the ASAMU SUMMIT. 

In welcoming Prof. Ngozi, Prof. Mindra Rachel, Deputy Principal of Makerere University Business School (MUBS) and Patron of the DESIRED Project, advised students to cultivate both technical and soft skills relevant to today’s evolving job market. She highlighted that such forums are essential for networking, gaining new insights, and preparing for the future world of work. 

By supporting student associations and events such as the ASAMU Summit, the DESIRED Project continues to bridge academia and industry, empowering students to gain practical experience, build professional identities, and develop employability capabilities that meet the evolving demands of the accounting profession.