Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa has called for increased research in key sectors to support Uganda’s economic growth strategy. He made the remarks while officiating at the 22nd graduation ceremony of the Uganda Management Institute (UMI) on March 14, 2025.
Tayebwa said Uganda’s economy is projected to grow from $55 billion to $500 billion by 2040, with a focus on agro-industrialization, tourism, mineral development, and technology. He urged UMI to lead research efforts aligned with national interests.
“If you require our support on research, it must be aligned with national interests and the future plans of this country. I urge UMI to take the lead on this,” Tayebwa said.
He also called on UMI and other public institutions to prioritize career growth for their employees, noting that government plans to fund staff promotions in the next financial year.
“It is a shame when you have an institution or a university where you do not promote academic professionals. Our focus now is to fund our universities so that they can promote their staff who meet their qualifications,” he said.
Tayebwa commended UMI for maintaining academic integrity by streamlining its courses, which he said has produced valuable professionals for the country.
He urged graduates to become problem-solvers in their respective fields.
“UMI has shaped our research agenda as well as the future of this country by training credible managers that have helped this country develop a resilient economy and go on a transformation journey,” he added.
UMI Chancellor Justice Bart Katureebe called on Parliament to formalize alternative justice systems such as mediation and arbitration, saying they are efficient and culturally relevant.
“The formal judicial system plays a pivotal role in dispensing justice but is often overburdened, slow, and sometimes inaccessible to marginalized communities,” Katureebe said.
A total of 3,294 graduates received degrees and diplomas, including six PhDs, 867 master’s degrees, 2,411 postgraduate diplomas, and 10 ordinary diplomas.
