Mandatory mentorship introduced for engineers seeking licences

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As a tool to increase professionalism and boost the registration of engineers, the Uganda Institution of Professional Engineers (UIPE) will offer mandatory mentorship programmes to engineers before they are allowed to practise.

The UIPE’s mandate stems from the Engineers Registration Act (1969) and its amendment (Decree No.10), which require engineers to register with the Engineers Registration Board (ERB) before practising.

Engineer Joseph Ochuli carrying his works in a workshop at Ntinda market in Kampala. (Photo by Wilfred Sanya)

Speaking after the March 20, 2025, unveiling of a five-year strategic master plan in Kampala, UIPE vice president membership, education and training, Henry Mpuuga, emphasised the need for structured mentorship training with hands-on experience as a specialised development approach.

"The essence of science mentorship is very relevant to engineers," Mpuuga said, highlighting the initiative’s focus on practical skills.

He noted that the mentorship programme will sensitise the sector, enhance professionalism and safety, and equip engineers with the skills needed to match the evolving technological landscape and compete in the market.

Mpuuga revealed that about 10,200 engineers are currently registered, yet many are practising without registration.

He said the plan is modelled after the medical field’s internship system, which provides practical training and peer support to enhance both personal and professional growth.

"We intend to reform the institutions through professional development, training, growth of memberships, research, innovation, and sharing knowledge," Mpuuga explained.

Why mandatory mentorship of engineers

UIPE also plans to engage the government and other institutions to address challenges hindering engineering potential, including setting standards, validating curricula, and advising on qualifications and ethics. This move is expected to strengthen the institution’s position as Uganda’s leading engineering body.

Mpuuga noted that despite UIPE’s growth, the institution still faces challenges in maintaining competitiveness, stressing the need for strict engineering and ethical standards. Compulsory mentorship is seen as key to guaranteeing quality output.

Other proposed reforms include renaming UIPE to the Uganda Institution for Professionals in Engineering, making membership registration more accessible, and introducing measures to ensure accountability and curb unregulated practices.

"It is in engineers' interest to register with us envisioning a future where UIPE endorsement is mandatory for practice. This would facilitate advocating for a minimum wage bill for engineers, similar to the teaching profession,” he said.

History of engineers' body

The UIPE was established in 1972 as an association of professional engineers in Uganda.

It succeeded the East Africa Institution of Engineers (EAIE), which had existed since 1945. UIPE serves as a professional body promoting engineering excellence and facilitating the exchange of knowledge and ideas among its members.

Experts welcome mandatory mentoring 

Professor Badru Kiggundu, the Chancellor of Busitema University, in a telephone interview, welcomed the mentorship initiative, noting that it would enhance discipline among engineers as they take on responsibilities.

Prof. Kiggundu said the programme would open up more opportunities for engineers upon completion, adding that registered engineers would be better positioned to compete for jobs professionally.

Joseph Ochuli, an engineer from Kyambogo University, said mentorship is beneficial for engineers who have just completed their studies. He noted that many graduates leave institutions with limited practical experience beyond internship exposure.

Ochuli strongly supported the move, saying it would improve professionalism and help curb issues such as building collapses caused by misuse of construction funds. He added that engineers would gain practical skills from experienced professionals.

Hussan Ssewankambo, a mechanical engineer at Vision Group and a graduate of Kyambogo University in mechanical and manufacturing engineering, said mentorship for registered engineers is a good idea.

Ssewankambo noted that engineering studies are largely theoretical and often lack sufficient practical guidance before graduates enter the field.

“While in the field there are so many things we encounter that it is better to work with someone who is experienced before you get committed to start a job with some experience”, he said.

He added that the initiative would benefit aspiring engineers, noting that internships are often too short to provide adequate exposure.

“Engineers will get opportunity to work with people with variety specific areas and would explore those skills before setting off to the fields.