MUBS introduces cooperative studies degree
The conference brought together partners from Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania and focused on the role of cooperatives in economic transformation and improving livelihoods.
(Credit: Wilfred Sanya)
__________________
Makerere University Business School (MUBS) has introduced cooperative studies at degree, master’s and doctorate (PhD) levels, a move described as a major milestone for Uganda’s cooperative movement.
The announcement was made by the MUBS Deputy Principal, Assoc. Prof. Rachel Mindra Katoroogo, during the launch of Cooperative Career Studies at the National Cooperatives Alliance conference held in Kampala on September 22.
The conference brought together partners from Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania and focused on the role of cooperatives in economic transformation and improving livelihoods.
Katoroogo, who delivered the speech of the MUBS principal, Prof. Moses Muhwezi, said the new programmes would provide students with specialised knowledge and skills needed to develop the cooperative movement.
She urged MUBS students and members of the cooperative movement to take advantage of the opportunity, saying the introduction of the programme marks a significant achievement for Uganda.
Dr Nelson Kuria, the chairperson of the SMEP Microfinance Bank board of directors, who was the keynote speaker, said the developments within Uganda’s cooperative movement represented more than growth, describing them as part of efforts to reshape the country’s economic future.
“We need to build systems that are not only attractive, but also consider the future for large SACCOs as they transition into larger saving institutions,” he said.
He said millions of Ugandans in villages, towns and cities aspire to improve their livelihoods, with farmers seeking better access to markets and young people looking for employment opportunities through programmes such as Emyooga.
Kuria highlighted the economic empowerment needs of women and the desire among families for greater financial security and prosperity, saying the cooperative movement could provide a platform through which such aspirations could be transformed into economic opportunities.
He called for a stronger regulatory framework for SACCOs and urged that regulation by the Bank of Uganda should be viewed as a means of strengthening the sector rather than as a burden.
“In cooperatives, we make people own development, and this is what makes us unique,” he said.
Kuria said economic transformation should ensure that opportunities are not concentrated in the hands of a few people, adding that cooperatives have an important role to play in broadening participation in economic development. He urged cooperatives to maintain their focus and adapt to changing economic conditions.
UCA leadership hailed
Uganda Cooperative Alliance (UCA) Secretary General and Chief Executive Officer Ivan Asiimwe said Uganda’s cooperative movement has also gained international recognition following his election as vice-president of an international agricultural organisation.
Asiimwe said the appointment meant that Uganda would have an opportunity to represent Africa at the international level, describing it as an achievement for the country’s cooperative movement.
He also said UCA was working towards establishing a fully-fledged bank within the next 10 years.
According to Asiimwe, the proposed bank would make it easier for cooperative members to conduct business and access financial services.