On September 2, 2022, a delegation from Uganda Institution of Professional Engineers (UIPE) Mbarara branch made a courtesy call to the Faculty of Applied Science and Technology (FAST) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST). This was in relation to the career development of engineers at national and international level. The delegation was led by Eng. Abenaho Alison who is the current Chairperson of UIPE Mbarara branch.
The team was welcomed by both students and staff at FAST. The president of Mbarara University Engineering Students’ Association (MUESA) Mr. Samuel Mwesigwa, presented Students’ expectations that included, A policy for Internship placements as a way of incorporating the private sector to take-up students.
Expectations of UIPE included taking up of students’ projects and showcase them both at national and international level to form platforms of innovative competition in different Engineering institutions within Uganda.
Eng. John Ziine, the patron of MUESA welcomed the team and thanked them for choosing to mentor MUST students. He highlighted on the background of MUESA, it’s achievements since establishment and the prospects. He also recognized and applauded one of the executive members of UIPE, Eng. Byamukama Jastus who is a MUST alumnus for carrying the MUST flag high.
The Deputy Dean-FAST Dr. Bbosa Dennis welcomed the team to FAST on behalf of the Faculty Dean Eng. Dr. Johnes Obungoloch. In his message, he encouraged the staff and students of FAST to register with UIPE. He affirmed the idea of internship placement as it was shared by the MUESA President. He further requested the UIPE team to put up policies that protect Engineering students especially during internship period. On behalf of FAST, Dr. Bbosa pledged full support towards UIPE.
In her presentation, Eng Abenaho Alison thanked FAST staff for allowing them to be part of the career development of young engineers. Insights about UIPE’s policies and regulations, membership, UIPE divisions, registration and the benefits were discussed.
She expressed her gratitude towards the students who took time out of their busy schedules to attend and make the event interactive.
The event was concluded with a Question-and-answer session to give clarity about UIPE. The session provided a chance for both MUST and UIPE to propose a way forward to support the students at FAST.
The UIPE delegation included Eng. Alison Abenaho, Eng Aggrey Atukwase (secretary), Eng. Nuwamanya Sulait (treasurer), Eng. Byamukama Jastus (Executive member),Eng. Doreen Kukunda and Eng. Andrew Akanyijuka (Executive member).