L-R Mr. Festo Nyakaana (NSSF), Mr. Richard Zulu (Lead at Outbox hub), Ms. Meralyn Mungereza (Country Program Head, Mastercard Foundation), Prof. Moses Muhwezi (Ag. Principal, MUBS), Dr. Diana Ntamu (Director, MUBS EIIC), Ms. Remmie Namutangula (Manager Incubation, MUBS EIIC)

Prof. Muhwezi emphasized that it is a testament to the fact that universities can collaborate with both the public and private sectors to bring about positive change in the country. Currently, around 3000 graduates struggle to find employment after leaving the university. However, when businesses thrive and expand, some of these students are able to secure jobs.

Some businesses have not received formal training, and the Principal has asked them to consider themselves fortunate for acquiring support, knowledge, and wisdom from the experts. Therefore, they should become the alma mater of MUBS.

Ag. Principal, Prof. Moses Muhwezi

Prof. Muhwezi appealed to the participants not to take the opportunity for granted, as they can be the key to unlocking their potential. Sometimes, all it takes is one opportunity to succeed in life. Even if one doesn’t receive money, gaining knowledge, support, and wisdom is invaluable. It’s not about the money, but about personal growth and deciding to think big.

He advised them to have passion and competition because it is healthier and it is what is in the world and appealed to them to practice that they were taught.

Dr. Diana Ntamu receives one of the winners, Intercity Agencies Limited

The Director of the Entrepreneurship, Incubation and Innovation Centre (EIIC) at MUBS, Dr. Diana Ntamu, emphasized that the MUBS EIIC provides support to innovators in the country. The Centre collaborates with various partners such as NSSF, Outbox, and the Mastercard Foundation to assist entrepreneurs. Dr. Ntamu highlighted the importance of collaboration, stating that progress is difficult to achieve without it. Although MUBS provides education, it does not have funds to directly support entrepreneurs. Therefore, the Centre relies on its partners to provide the necessary resources for entrepreneurs to move their businesses forward.

Dr. Ntamu expressed appreciation to the partners for their belief in MUBS and collaboration with the University. This has been a learning journey, and there is still much to learn.

Mr. Richard Zulu, Team Principal/Managing Director at Outbox, stated that the goal of starting the Hi-Innovator journey years ago was to provide evidence to persuade pension funders to invest in small businesses. The objective is to ensure that these businesses are profitable, have positive cash flow, and are able to take other people along.

He further said the focus is on the high growth potential businesses for scaling, sustainability, and impact. When joining the program, it’s crucial to consider the growth potential of the businesses, as they can unlock numerous opportunities.

All the 13 winners of the NSSF Hi-Innovator StepUp Cohort celebrate with the program  partners

Ms. Allen Arinaitwe, who was among the judges appreciated the businesses that participated in the program, she appealed to them to seek help whenever needed.

Ms. Meralyn Mungereza, Country Program Head of the Mastercard Foundation, emphasized the significance of creating your own job. She urged business owners to take ownership of their work, emphasizing that their innovation will drive profitability in agriculture. Ms. Mungereza also highlighted the challenges of entrepreneurship, advising individuals to act responsibly and not to erode investor confidence by mishandling funds. She stressed the importance of portraying positive behavior in business.