The Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) has graduated 125 young professionals from its two-month internship programme, giving them practical workplace experience and skills aimed at preparing them for the challenges and opportunities of the labour market.The internship brought together students from different universities and provided them with an opportunity to put their academic knowledge into practice. During their time at the Bureau, the interns interacted with professionals, participated in workplace activities and gained first-hand experience that complemented what they had learned in their classrooms.
Speaking during the farewell ceremony, UBOS Executive Director Dr. Chris N. Mukiza encouraged the interns to use their newly acquired skills to make a positive contribution to Uganda’s development. He reminded them that academic qualifications become more meaningful when they are used to develop practical solutions to challenges affecting communities and the country at large.Dr. Mukiza urged the young professionals to make continuous learning a priority as they begin their careers. He noted that the world of work is constantly changing and requires people who are willing to acquire new skills and adapt to emerging demands. “Learn new skills because life is very competitive,” he advised.He also challenged the interns to uphold discipline, integrity, hard work and a positive attitude wherever they go.
According to Dr. Mukiza, such values, combined with professional knowledge and competence, can help young people build successful and meaningful careers.The interns came from institutions including Makerere University, Makerere University Business School, Kyambogo University, Uganda Martyrs University Nkozi, the Islamic University in Uganda, Mbarara University of Science and Technology and Ndejje University, among others. Dr. Mukiza praised them for their good conduct and revealed that UBOS would retain their details in its database for possible future opportunities.Reagan Opio, who represented the interns, expressed gratitude to UBOS management and staff for giving them an opportunity to experience the professional environment.
He said the programme had helped them bridge the gap between theoretical learning and practical work while improving their confidence, professional skills and understanding of the importance of official statistics.The farewell ceremony held on Friday last week marked the conclusion of the interns’ time at UBOS, but also the beginning of their journey into the labour market. The Bureau encouraged the young professionals to share the lessons and experiences gained with other students, while reaffirming its commitment to internship and graduate trainee programmes as important avenues for developing a skilled and work-ready generation.
