By Victor Turinawe
The Head of Project Management and Business Development at PROME Consultants Limited, Engineer Godfrey Ssambwa, has urged students to develop and strengthen their Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) competencies as a key enabler for any graduate to survive in today’s job market.
Engineer Ssambwa, who is also a council member of the Uganda Association of Consulting Engineers (UACE), made the call while addressing Uganda Christian University (UCU) students from the Faculty of Engineering, Design and Technology (FEDT) during a departmental career guidance session at Nkoyoyo Hall this afternoon.
“Career development is very important. While at university, your primary focus should be learning, gaining practical skills, and building professional discipline. However, times have changed. In the past, many graduates were absorbed directly into government jobs after graduation. Today, competition is much higher, and engineers must actively search for opportunities and continuously improve their skills,” said Ssambwa.
“As students and future professionals, you should develop technical competence, build communication skills, gain practical experience, network with professionals, maintain professionalism and integrity, and stay updated with modern technologies,” emphasised Ssambwa.
He added, “Engineering is not only about calculations and designs. It is also about problem-solving, teamwork, leadership, and innovation. The future belongs to engineers who are adaptable, creative, and willing to keep learning. Do not rush into pursuing a Master’s degree. First, join the working world, as it will give you the opportunity to gain more practical knowledge because, at Master’s level, discussions focus more on problems and projects already in existence.”
Another engineer, Ceaser Kisa Wakiibi, Senior Manager Projects at Air Water Earth (AWE) Limited, called for careful consideration when choosing a specialisation at Master’s level.
“Think and consider passion, it’s paramount. Personally, I love structures compared to other aspects of Civil Engineering such as geometrics. It will be easier to decide where to go, but do not limit yourself to one thing,” said Wakiibi.
Odrick Natumanya, President of the UCU Engineering Association, said that the purpose of organising the function was to provide career guidance to engineering students at the university.
“We invited professionals from the Uganda Association of Consulting Engineers to share their experiences, knowledge, and insights with us as aspiring civil engineers. Their guidance is meant to help students better understand the engineering profession and prepare for their future careers,” said Natumanya.
“My biggest takeaway is that the engineering path is not always clear or straightforward. However, with guidance like this, humility, and a willingness to learn, you can always find your way and grow into the best version of yourself in the engineering world,” added Natumanya.
Melisa Ahumuza, the Member of Parliament in the 28th UCU Guild Government, said the most important thing students are gaining is the opportunity to interact with professionals who have already worked in the industry, adding that their experiences challenge and inspire students to work harder and aim higher in their careers.
“Personally, my biggest takeaway was the importance of being humble, ready to learn, and willing to take on every opportunity, whether small or big, because each opportunity can become a stepping stone to something greater,” said Ahumuza.
