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Police commits to provide formal education to officers’ children and dependents

By
Our Reporter
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The Uganda Police Force is working to streamline formal education to improve the educational opportunities for the children and dependents of its officers.

According to SSP Nakityo Jane, the head of the Formal Education Department, efforts are underway to establish a school and a vocational institute at the regional level to achieve this goal.

Currently, the police operate 19 schools, of which 10 are government-aided and 9 are privately owned. The department is also working on establishing a comprehensive database of dependents to support proper planning and resource development, both human and non-human, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Sports and other stakeholders.

She called on officers to support this initiative by applying for teaching positions and enrolling their children and dependents in these schools. SSP Nakityo also encouraged women officers to embrace training opportunities, stating that this is crucial for their career growth.

These plans were outlined during a sensitization and needs assessment tour in the Kiira, Bukedi South, and Elgon regions.

A shining example of the impact of these efforts is the Mbale Police Wanyela Primary School. With 1,618 pupils, 85% of whom are children of police officers, the school has become a beacon of educational excellence in the region.

In the 2023 Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE), 109 pupils from the school sat for the exams, with 30 earning Division One and 71 securing Division Two. This impressive performance has solidified the school’s reputation as one of the top government schools in the Mbale Sub-region, according to the headmistress, Ms. Betty Nabugobero.

The Police Force also owns one school each in the Elgon, Kiira, Mt. Moroto, Greater Masaka, Rwizi, Albertine, Aswa West, Kidepo, Kyoga and Bukedi regions while Kampala Metropolitan Police (KMP) South three while KMP West has four, contributing significantly to the educational advancement of officers’ families.

The Uganda Police Force is committed to enhancing education for its officers’ dependents which marks as a significant step towards empowering the next generation and ensuring a brighter future for police families across the country.

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The oil and gas sector transforming Uganda’s economic landscape-Energy Minister

By
Simon Kabayo
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Minister Ruth Nankabirwa

Uganda’s oil and gas sector is transforming the country’s economic landscape, with significant investments and strategic partnerships poised to drive growth, create jobs, and generate revenue.

Dr. Ruth Nankabirwa, Minister for Energy and Mineral Development, shared updates on the sector’s progress during a mid-year media briefing.

“The Tilenga Project, spanning both the North and South of the Nile in Nwoya and Buliisa Districts, is making remarkable progress,” Dr. Nankabirwa noted.

“Drilling activities have thus far focused on six of the thirty-one well pads that will host 426 producer and injector wells for the Tilenga project.”

The Tilenga project has completed 63 wells, with 426 planned, while the Kingfisher project has commenced drilling production wells, with nine successfully completed to date.

“The Kingfisher Development Area project has seen significant progress, with drilling of production wells commencing in January 2023,” Dr. Nankabirwa added.

The East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) has also made significant progress, with civil works commencing at the Main Camps and Pipe Yards in Hoima and Sembabule districts.

“The Engineering, Procurement, Construction Management and Commissioning activities for the EACOP project are ongoing in London and Dar es Salaam. Worley is undertaking this work with its subcontractors – ICS Engineering in Uganda and Norplan in Tanzania,” Dr. Nankabirwa explained.

The Uganda Refinery Project negotiations are ongoing, aiming to boost oil production, drive economic growth, and generate national revenue.

“Negotiations for key commercial agreements, including implementation, crude oil supply, and shareholder agreements, commenced in January 2024 between the Government and Alpha MBM Investments LLC, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in December 2023,” Dr. Nankabirwa stated.

The government has prioritized local content and community employment, with 92% of the Licensee’s Contractors and sub-contractors being Ugandans.

“Local content and community employment have been prioritized, with 92% of the Licensee’s Contractors and their sub-contractors being Ugandans,” Dr. Nankabirwa emphasized.

The sector has directly employed 14,451 individuals, with 13,048 being Ugandans (90%). Contracts valued at US$ 5 billion have been awarded for the Tilenga, Kingfisher, and EACOP projects, with US$ 2 billion allocated to Ugandan companies.

The Kabalega Industrial Park has registered key milestones, with the airport expected to be ready by the third quarter of 2025. The government has also addressed resettlement and compensation issues for affected individuals, with 95% receiving compensation and 97% signing agreements.

“All resettlement houses have been constructed and handed over,” Dr. Nankabirwa noted. “However, there are 112 cases under consideration for compulsory land acquisition due to issues such as untraceable individuals, landowner disputes, refusal of compensation offers, and lack of legal title.”

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27th Church of Uganda provincial assembly convenes in Mukono

By
Our Reporter
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Executive Director Equity Bank Uganda Elizabeth Mwerinde Kasedde giving her speech.

The 27th Church of Uganda Provincial Assembly has started today and the event will run until August 23, 2024 at Uganda Christian University, Mukono.

The congregation comprises of representatives from all dioceses in the Province. This event is being used to highlight the some of the church’s achievements and contributions and among them is the Church of Uganda’s final loan payment for Janani Luwum Church House. 

The day started with a service led by His grace the archbishop Stephen Kazimba Mugalu. This was followed by introduction of the different clergy and delegates from the various Church of Uganda dioceses.

Thereafter, His grace the archbishop Kazimba Mugalu welcomed the chief guest of the day Mr. John R. Musinguzi, Commissioner General of Uganda Revenue Authority who went ahead and gave an overview about the growth of URA from its time of inception to its current status.

He further sensitized the audience about the role URA plays in building the economy through taxes and how the tax structure is implemented.

Subsequently, Equity bank used same opportunity to officially congratulate the Church of Uganda upon the final loan payment for Janani Luwum Church House which was marked by a cake cutting session and official title handover.

During her congratulatory remarks, the ED Equity bank Uganda Elizabeth Mwerinde Kasedde – “We are very excited to release the title of church house to the Church of Uganda and we are looking forward to supporting more projects. Thank you so much for partnering with us.

I’ve been looking forward to this opportunity to thank the leaders of the church, because they participated in this journey wholeheartedly, and all the points that were mentioned today by our guest of honor. Thank you so much, and we shall continue to transform your lives, giving dignity and expanding opportunities for wealth creation together with the help of God.”

While giving thanking remarks, the Archbishop Kazimba Mugalu greatly thanked Equity bank for the partnership through the church house loan that gave them a boost to complete the project after 40 years.

“I would like to thank all men and women of God, of other denominations who have supported us towards the completion of this milestone so that we realize the dream of Church house. And I want to appreciate my fathers in the faith who came before me, because I am the 9th”. 

This idea came during the time of Archbishop Eric Sabiiti, Archbishop Janani Luwum where each one of those have made a significant contribution.

“I want to appreciate Archbishop Emeritus Henry Orombi, who approached Equity bank, and they made a deal of giving us a loan of 60 billion, thank you very much and now we receive our title and receive a building.”

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President Yoweri Museveni: A leader of balanced appointments and national stability

By
Guest Writer
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Mr.Trevor Solomon Baleke.



In the intricate fabric of Uganda’s political landscape, President Yoweri Museveni’s recent appointment and reshuffling of Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) underscore his unwavering commitment to national unity, stability, and balanced governance. The move, which saw over 99.8% of RDCs retained, reflects Museveni’s dedication to ensuring equitable representation across Uganda’s regions and districts, while also maintaining a high level of experienced leadership throughout the nation.

*A Commitment to Balanced Regional Representation*

One of the defining characteristics of Museveni’s leadership has been his relentless pursuit of balanced regional representation. Uganda is a country marked by a rich diversity of ethnic groups, cultures, and regional identities. In such a context, ensuring that all parts of the country feel included in the governance process is both a challenging and essential task. The recent reshuffle of RDCs highlights Museveni’s deep understanding of this need for inclusivity. By carefully maintaining a balance in appointments across the different regions, Museveni demonstrates his commitment to ensuring that no region feels marginalized or excluded from the national discourse.

This balancing act goes beyond mere political strategy; it is a reflection of Museveni’s deep understanding that inclusive governance is the bedrock of national unity. By ensuring that all regions have a stake in the national administration, Museveni fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility among the Ugandan populace.

This is crucial for maintaining the peace and unity that Uganda has enjoyed for decades under his leadership. Museveni’s approach to governance is not about dividing and ruling but about bringing people together, irrespective of their regional or ethnic backgrounds. This inclusive leadership style has played a significant role in the stability that Uganda has experienced over the years.

*Retaining Experience and Ensuring Continuity*

The decision to retain over 99.8% of RDCs, with some only being transferred from one district to another, speaks volumes about President Museveni’s recognition of the importance of experience and continuity in governance. In an era where political appointments are often seen as opportunities to reward loyalty rather than merit, Museveni’s approach stands out. By retaining experienced RDCs, Museveni ensures that the institutional knowledge and expertise that have been built up over the years are not lost. This continuity is crucial for the effective implementation of government policies and programs at the district level.

Moreover, by avoiding the wholesale dismissal of RDCs, Museveni demonstrates his commitment to fostering a stable and professional public service. This stability is essential for the effective governance of the country, as it ensures that government initiatives are implemented efficiently and consistently across all regions.

Museveni’s focus on continuity and experience also sends a clear message to public servants: that competence and dedication are valued, and that service to the nation is a long-term commitment.

*Ensuring National Unity Through Regional Inclusivity*

Throughout his tenure as President, Museveni has consistently ensured that every region of Uganda is brought on board in the governance process. This has been a cornerstone of his administration’s approach to nation-building. Whether it is through the appointment of RDCs, the distribution of government projects, or the allocation of resources, Museveni has made it a point to ensure that no region is left behind. This inclusive approach has helped to build a sense of national identity and unity among Ugandans, who see themselves as part of a larger, cohesive whole rather than as isolated regional entities.

Museveni’s commitment to regional inclusivity is also evident in his government’s focus on infrastructure development across the country. From the construction of roads and bridges to the expansion of electricity and water supply networks, Museveni has worked to ensure that all regions benefit from the country’s development efforts. This has not only improved the quality of life for Ugandans across the country but has also helped to bridge the gap between urban and rural areas, further fostering national unity.

*Conclusion: Museveni’s Leadership in Perspective*

President Yoweri Museveni’s leadership is characterized by a deep commitment to national unity, stability, and inclusive governance. His recent reshuffle of RDCs is a clear reflection of these values, as he continues to ensure that all regions of Uganda are represented in the national administration, while also retaining experienced and capable leaders in key positions. For over three decades, Museveni has worked tirelessly to bring all Ugandans together, regardless of their regional or ethnic backgrounds, in the pursuit of a prosperous and united nation.

His approach to leadership, which emphasizes balance, continuity, and inclusivity, has been instrumental in maintaining the peace and stability that Uganda enjoys today. As such, all regions and districts of Uganda have every reason to laud President Museveni for his continued commitment to their inclusion in the national governance process.

The author is Trevor Solomon Baleke, +256752009014, a Deputy RDC

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A gunshot that killed Henry Katanga was fired at close range- Witness testifies 

By
Geoffery Serugo
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Prime suspect, Molly Katamba.

The trial of Molly Katanga, the prime suspect in the murder of her husband Henry Katanga, has kicked off with the seventh witness.

Yesterday, the trial could not kick off over internet failure, prompting Justice Isaac Muwata to adjourn the matter to today.

Appearing before the court earlier today, Dr. Richard Ambayo, a pathologist at the city mortuary in Mulago, revealed that the deceased businessman succumbed to gun wounds.

This is from a testimony that was given by Dr. Mbayo, who conducted the post-mortem examination on November 2, 2023, and told the court that the gunshot that killed Henry Katanga was from a gun fired at close range.

Conversely, Naome Nyangweso, the sister of the late Henry Katanga and a key witness for the prosecution declined to take the stand for the second time, citing language barriers. She will be in court tomorrow to testify against Molly.

Molly Katanga is accused of killing her husband, Henry Katanga. The businessman was allegedly shot dead by his wife on November 2, 2023, at their home in Mbuya, Nakawa Division, Kampala City.

Molly is charged alongside her two daughters, Martha Nkwazi and Patricia Kakwanza; George Amanyire, a shamba boy; and Charles Otai, a health worker.

Nkwanzi and Kakwanza are accused of tampering with evidence at the crime scene, rendering it unidentifiable for judicial proceedings. Amanyire and Charles Otai, a health worker, are charged with assisting others involved in the crime.

In February, the four were granted Shs2 million in cash bail while their sureties were bonded at Shs20 million and ordered to surrender their passports.

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Kiira Motors seeks Shs500b to kickoff mass production of electric buses

By
Simon Kabayo
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Some of Kiira Motors buses.

Uganda’s Kiira Motors Corporation is seeking for Shs500 billion to commence operations and achieve its goal of mass-production of electric buses.

According to Minister for Science, Technology, and Innovation Monica Musenero, “We need money to finish manufacturing our stock, and when we have finished, we will be able to manufacture 200 buses at once.”

Once operational, the plant is expected to produce an impressive 200 buses simultaneously, doubling its initial production capacity from 2,500 to 5,000 buses annually.

Musenero emphasized the importance of mass production, noting, “Most companies that order buses, order in hundreds, hence if we have the money, we can have mass production.”

Uganda is poised to become a hub for e-mobility in the region, with the government investing over $100 million in establishing production facilities, product development, human capital development, and e-mobility infrastructure.

First Deputy Prime Minister Rebecca Kadaga noted, “With a projected population increase to 75 million by 2040, Uganda is in a prime position to intensify demand for sustainable transportation solutions.”

The National E-mobility Strategy aims to achieve sustainable development, create green jobs, and reduce pollution by transitioning to e-mobility in public transport by 2030.

Kadaga emphasized, “The transition will generate more than 500,000 green jobs, achieve a 65 percent local production rate in the e-vehicle value chain, and reduce pollution by 25 percent.”

Kiira Motors Executive Chairperson Prof Sandy Stevens Tickodri-Togboa highlighted the government’s commitment to e-mobility, saying, “Government is committed to positioning Uganda as a hub for e-mobility and has invested over $100 million in establishing production facilities, product development, human capital development, and e-mobility infrastructure.”

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Uganda Prisons, Embassy of Netherlands launch gender-sensitive management of women in jail

By
Our Reporter
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Uganda Prisons Service (UPS), in partnership with Penal Reform International and the Embassy of the Netherlands Kingdom in Uganda, has launched a specialized training program for prison officers on gender-sensitive and human rights approaches in managing women in prison.

The five-day training, currently underway at Belmont Hotel in Mbale, brings together 20 prison officers from various stations in the Eastern Region, including those from women’s prisons, reception officers, social workers, and medical personnel.

Mr. Baker Asinjah, Commissioner of Prisons (Human Resource Planning and Development) representing the Commissioner General of Prisons, emphasized the importance of safety measures in prisons, including surveillance systems, security personnel, access control, inmate classification, emergency response plans, inmate searches, crisis interventions, medical and mental health services, staff training, intelligence gathering, and perimeter security fencing.

The training focuses on the effective management, human-rights based approach and rehabilitation of women prisoners, considering factors such as risk and needs assessment, custody levels, housing, gender-responsive programs, mental health support, substance abuse treatment, education, job training, family support, healthcare, training informed care, and re-integration planning.

Notably, UPS currently has 3,700 female inmates in custody stationed in 19 prison units nationwide and is committed to providing special services and considerations in compliance with international standards.

Women prisoners in Uganda receive tailored support in a safe, secure, and humane correctional environment, including separate housing, gender-sensitive programs, vocational training and access to healthcare and education.

The program aims to enhance the skills of prison officers in managing different categories of female prisoners, promoting their rehabilitation and reintegration.

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Busoga, Nkumba Universities to benefit from Shs13b tax waiver

By
Our Reporter
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Kashari South MP whose Makerere Business Institute has benefited from the tax waiver.

The Ministry of Finance has suggested tax waivers to eight entities in the country. The tax waiver is worth Shs13 billion.

Appearing before the Parliamentary Committee on Finance, Planning, and Economic Development, Henry Musasizi, the State Minister for Finance, said only eight entities have been shortlisted for tax waivers.

The eight include Makerere Business Institute owned by Kashari South MP Nathan Itungo, Nkumba University, J2E Investment Corporation Ltd., Donati Kananura, Nicontra Ltd., Peter Lokwang, Busoga University, and Kisiizi Hospital Power Ltd.

Makerere Business Institute

Musasizi said the institute applied for a waiver of taxes in August 2023. The institute claimed closure of schools during the 2-year lockdown during the #Covid-19 pandemic; there has been low enrolment of the students since the re-opening of the schools. The enrollment of students had fallen to 162 from 326 prior to the pandemic.

The amount recommended for waiver is Shs239 million, comprising an income tax of Shs131.7 million and Shs107.5 million.

Nkumba University

According to the minister, in March 2022, the university applied for a tax waiver of PAYE owing to financial constraints it was facing. They claimed the university faced a strike in 2014 in which much of the property was destroyed; student enrolment fell from 6,500 to 3,500, reducing cash inflows and the long-term loans with Dfcu bank to a tune of Shs5 billion payable in eight years.

The amount recommended for waiver is Shs 4.4 billion, which was PAYE principal tax and interest.

J2E Investment Corporation Ltd.

Established in 2010, their main contract was with the Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs (MoDVA) to do work at Kaweweta Millitary Training Barracks.

In December 2019, the Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs wrote to the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development requesting a tax waiver. This was because during the implementation of the works, the contractor faced investigations from the Inspector General of Government (IGG) and suspended all works and payments due from the Ministry of Defence, resulting in penalties and interest.

“The contractor had now been cleared by all the investigations, and payments were approved. It was requested that interest accumulated be waived and the taxpayer pay the principal tax. The amount recommended for waiver as of December 2023 was Shs2.7 billion, which was interest accumulated,” the minister said.

Donati Kananura

This publication learnt that the applicant deals in real estate development and has been registered since 1996. The outstanding liability arose from assessments of Shs1.230 billion for rental tax and Shs1.285 billion for VAT.

He applied for an income tax and VAT waiver in December 2022 and January 2023. He claimed that he is of advanced age and has diabetes, pressure, prostate enlargement, and loss of sight. Most of his income goes into expenses related to these ailments.

The amount recommended for waiver as of September 2023 was Shs1.6 billion for rental income tax and Shs2 billion for VAT.

Nicontra Ltd

In January 2023, the company applied for a tax waiver over delayed payment by UNRA that resulted in accumulation of interest and penalty, highly indebted with loans from banks and borrowings from other unsecured lenders.

The amount recommended for waiver as of September 2023 was Shs931 million as VAT, comprising Shs537 million in principal tax and Shs394 million in interest.

Peter Lokwang

The minister said Lokwang is a registered taxpayer located in Moroto dealing in the mining of limestone. He has been registered since July 2006. An audit was carried out and completed in 2022, covering the period 2018 to 2021 and a withholding tax of Shs237 million was assessed.

“He applied for a waiver, claiming that he mines in remote areas of Moroto, and the artisans he uses to carry out the work are not willing to be charged withholding tax and neither are the drivers that offer him the transport services and therefore making it cumbersome for him to withhold and remit to URA,” Musasizi said.

The amount recommended for waiver in September 2023 was a withholding tax of Shs385 million, comprising a principal tax of Shs237 million and interest of Shs147 million.

Busoga University

The government took over the university in 2017 following its closure by the National Council for Higher Education. Before takeover, the Auditor General ascertained and confirmed that the university owed URA Shs763 million.

The minister said the Ministry of Education and Sports could not take over the debt due to budget constraints. The Ministry of Education and Sports therefore wrote to the Ministry of Finance, requesting a tax waiver in July 2023.

The university provided a memorandum of agreement between the government of Uganda and the registered trustees of the Church of Uganda and Busoga University on the takeover of the university. The MOU showed the government committed to taking over the agreed liabilities.

He noted that the amount recommended for waiver as of August 2023 was Shs783 million of PAYE, comprising Shs444.9 million as principal tax and Shs338.1 million as interest.

Kisiizi Hospital Power Ltd.

Owned by both Kisiizi Hospital and North Kigezi Diocese, the company generates power for the community around the hospital.

He noted that the company faced challenges resulting from the total breakdown of the infrastructure for power generation caused by flooding in the years 2017 and 2019. Taxpayers borrowed funds to repair the step-up transformer and are still struggling to pay the loan.

The amount recommended for waiver on June 28, 2024 was Shs77.6 million in VAT, comprising Shs38.9 million in principal taxes and Shs38.7 million in interest.

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Legal fraternity, Makerere University and Rotary convene for decent sendoff of Prof. Makubuya

By
Simon Kabayo
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RIP Prof. Khiddu Makubuya.

Makerere University, the legal fraternity and rotary have convened for a decent sendoff of former Attorney General Khiddu Makubuya.

The group is set to meet raise funds to prepare his burial in recognition of his significant contributions during his career in both legal and academia professions. Makubuya was also actively involved in the Rotary Club, where he contributed to various charitable initiatives and community service projects.

The group is set to meet at former Lawns Restaurant on Impala Avenue Kololo and it is being spearheaded by former Security Minister Gen. Henry Tumukunde.

“There is no doubt that Prof. Khiddu Makubuya was an accomplished gentleman and therefore, we want to accord him his status as we bid farewell to him” Gen. Tumukunde told Eagle Online

He served as Uganda’s Attorney General between 2005 and 2011, breathed his last in the wee hours of Monday morning according to family sources.

The former minister and legislator for Katikamu South Constituency had been battling an illness for a while until Sunday evening when his health condition deteriorated.

Born on July 30, 1949, Makubuya held a First-Class Honors Bachelor of Laws degree from Makerere University, which he obtained in 1974.

He also held a Master of Laws degree and a Doctor of Juridical Science, both from Yale Law School and obtained in 1976 and 1979 respectively.

Former Prime Minister and currently the Special Envoy for Special Duties, Office in the President’s office, Ruhakana Rygunda was dismayed by the death of Prof Kiddu Makubuya as he mourned that his death Rukunda said death has robbed the country of a fine legal brain who made significant contributions to the country as an academic, politician and student leader.

Rugunda said that as a contemporary at Makerere University in the early 1970s, Prof. Makubuya was an excellent student who later became the first to obtain a first-class degree in law. In his later years as a law don, Makubuya mentored many current stars in the legal profession.

“He will be remembered for his calmness, humility and down to earth character. Condolences to his family, friends and relatives. May His Soul Rest in Eternal Peace,” Rugunda mourned.

Makubuya breathed his last in the wee hours of Monday morning according to family sources after battling with illness at Nakasero Hospital.

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Makerere University to host first-ever Microsoft Azure certifications boot camp

By
Simon Kabayo
-

Makerere University’s College of Computing and Information Sciences is set to host the first-ever Microsoft Azure Certifications Boot Camp from September 7th to 8th, 2024.

The two-day event, organized by the Centre for Innovations and Professional Skills Development, aims to equip participants with hands-on experience in Microsoft Azure and cloud computing.

The boot camp is open to university students and members of the public interested in starting a career in Microsoft Azure and cloud computing. Participants will engage in practical exercises designed to simulate real-world scenarios, ensuring they gain hands-on experience.

Microsoft Azure is a public cloud computing platform that offers a range of services, including storage, networking, analytics, and virtual computing. The platform is widely used by individuals, companies, and governments globally.

The demand for skilled cloud professionals is increasing as businesses migrate to the cloud. Azure certification can validate skills and knowledge in the cloud domain, setting participants apart in a competitive job market.

“The boot camp is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of Microsoft Azure and its applications,” said Barbara Nalubega, Head of the Centre for Innovations and Professional Skills Development.

She added, “We are excited to offer this opportunity to our students and the public, and we believe it will be a valuable asset in their future careers.”

Registration for the boot camp is ongoing, with a fee of Shs50,000. Participants who attend the boot camp will receive a discount on the full Azure training course starting immediately after the event.

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