What is UIPE?
The Uganda Institution of Professional Engineering (UIPE) is a highly esteemed organisation that was established in 1972 with the primary objective of fostering a collaborative environment where engineers could share knowledge, exchange ideas, and promote the engineering profession in Uganda. Over the years, UIPE has evolved to become the foremost independent entity for professional engineering in Uganda.
UIPE serves as a unifying platform for Engineers, Technicians, and Technologists, right from the onset of their academic pursuits to when they develop into seasoned professionals. The organisation provides a supportive and nurturing community that equips its members with the necessary tools and resources to thrive in their chosen fields.
The Attendees from UIPE
UIPE was represented by esteemed individuals, comprising a group of distinguished personalities, including;
- Eng. Andrew Muhwezi – President, UIPE
- Eng. Vicent Ochwo – Past President, UIPE
- Eng. Kenneth Magembe – Member of the UIPE Executive Committee
- Eng. Henry Mpuuga – Keynote Speaker
- Eng. Dr Ivan Lule – Chairman, Research, Information and Grants
- Eng. Liberty Enoc – Chairman Young Engineers Committee
- Eng. Andrew Kawuki Kiddu – Hon. Secretary, UIPE, Kampala
- Mr. Julius Caesar Kintu – Professional Development Manager
- Ms. Regina Nanyonjo – Young Engineer Committee, Secretariat
- Ms. Moureen Nakiryowa, Information Office
- Eng. Jerry Picho – Kampala Focal person
- Ms. Lynnette Namutebi – Kampala Focal person
In today’s world, engineering is a fast-growing industry. There is an ever-increasing demand for engineers, and as such, the Uganda Institution of Professional Engineering (UIPE) recognises the need to mentor and support young aspiring engineers.
The Purpose of UIPE’s Visit to IUEA
The objective of the visit by the UIPE to IUEA is to offer essential guidance and advice to students under the Faculty of Engineering and the Faculty of Science and Technology, equipping them with the necessary skills to successfully transition into the professional world in the forthcoming years. Through this, students will gain valuable insights and practical tips that will enable them to navigate their career paths with confidence and competence.
In the course of their visit, the delegation from UIPE had the privilege of meeting with the esteemed Vice Chancellor of IUEA, Prof. Emeka Akaezuwa, Dean of Faculty of Engineering, Prof. Jose Manuel Pages Madrigal, along with other senior members of staff. This provided a platform for the UIPE Engineers to articulate their intention to form collaborations as well as offer indispensable guidance to the students of IUEA, with the ultimate aim of equipping them with the requisite skills and knowledge to excel as competent engineers in the near future.
The visit by the UIPE was a great opportunity for students to gain insights into the industry, acquire technical skills, and learn about job opportunities. The event was well-organised, with guest speakers, panel discussions, and Q&A sessions aimed at providing mentorship and networking opportunities to the students.
The event kicked off with a keynote address by Eng. Kenneth Magembe, a Member of the UIPE Executive Committee, who shared insights into the engineering industry and encouraged the students to pursue their passion for engineering.Eng. Kenneth Magembe along with his comrade Eng. Vicent Ochwo, Past President of UIPE also emphasised the importance of mentorship.
The event was promptly succeeded by a highly interactive and dynamic session featuring Eng. Henry Mpuuga, the keynote speaker at the Uganda Institution of Professional Engineers (UIPE), who engaged with the students on a wide range of topics. Notably, the discussion placed particular emphasis on the crucial role of ethics in the engineering profession, with Eng. Mpuuga passionately encourages the students to uphold the highest levels of integrity and professionalism at all times.
“You need to know what gives your life meaning, a sense of purpose and you need to set goals and establish a path for your future.”
– Said Eng. Henry Mpuuga, Keynote Speaker UIPE.
The event also featured guest speakers who were industry experts in their respective fields. They shared their experiences, challenges, and triumphs with the students. The guest speakers highlighted the importance of soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving in the industry.
The Q&A sessions served as an exceptional platform for the students to engage with the guest speakers and panellists, delving into various topics such as the industry’s current state, the job market’s trends, and strategies for succeeding as an engineer. The guest speakers and panellists imparted their profound insights and practical advice, motivating the students to pursue their passions and remain dedicated to their chosen career paths. The event culminated in an Appreciation Award Ceremony, followed by a tree-planting activity, fostering an environment of gratitude and sustainability.
The visit proved to be a resounding success, as both UIPE and IUEA demonstrated their unwavering dedication to promoting the engineering profession in Uganda through collaboration. The institutions reached a mutual agreement to join forces on several initiatives, such as conducting joint research, providing training, organising workshops for students and lecturers, and many other collaborations aimed at advancing engineering excellence in Uganda.
In line with the University’s vision to be the Technological University of Choice, IUEA has taken up various initiatives to see to it that the students have a clear understanding of the profession and the opportunities that are available to them after graduation and this has previously been evidenced by their Partnership with Changzhou Institute Of Mechatronic Engineering.
Overall, the visit made by UIPE to IUEA has proven to be a significant milestone in promoting the engineering profession in Uganda. The visit not only allowed students to gain invaluable knowledge from industry experts but also fostered a stronger bond between the two institutions. This visit has set the groundwork for future collaborations, enabling both parties to work towards a shared objective of advancing engineering education in Uganda.
