KIU, MAIN CAMPUS - Kampala International University (KIU) on Tuesday, 11th February 2025, hosted a career exhibition for students from the School of Mathematics and Computing. The event, organized by the School of Mathematics and Computing (SOMAC), and the Directorate of Research, Innovations, Consultancy and Extension aimed to prepare students for life after university.

Dr. Chukwuemeka Odi Agwu, the Associate Dean of SOMAC, welcomed guest speakers to KIU and urged students to pay attention and learn.

Ushering in the guest speakers, Dr. Michael Adewusi, Dean of SOMAC, thanked the distinguished guest speakers and expressed his sincere gratitude for their presence. "We are honored that you have taken time out of your busy schedules to share your valuable insights and experiences with our students," he said.

One of the guest speakers, Dr. Dorothy Kyeyune, CEO of Mwoyo Experience, emphasized the importance of nurturing social capital. She also shared the rule of thirds - out of 10 people 3 will like you, 3 won't like you and the rest will be indifferent. She urged students to develop their adversity quotient because life comes with challenges, and some people are naysayers.

She also told them that there are 3 options available to students 1. Seek employment 2. Be self-employed and 3. Be an entrepreneur employing others. They should be creative, innovative and start planning now what they will do during and after university and invest in the networks, put in their best effort in their studies with the end in mind.

"Believe in yourself, Think big, dream big and pursue your goals relentlessly. What the mind can conceive, the mind can achieve. Have a positive attitude, cultivate humility and be advisable", she said.

Dr. Kyeyune also encouraged students to adapt to emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and utilize social media wisely. "AI is transforming the world, and you must evolve to stay ahead. Use social media responsibly, as it can make or break your reputation," she added.

The second guest speaker, Noelina Quarta Kirabo, a KIU alumna and Technical Officer at the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority, shared her personal experience. "My university Dean and lecturers played a significant role in my education and career. Build relationships with your professors and peers, as they can lead to valuable recommendations and opportunities," she advised.

During the question-and-answer session, students asked about how to factor in salary expectations during job interviews and concerns about AI replacing human labour, particularly in the Information and Technology (IT) and Computer Science fields.

In response, guest speaker Kirabo advised students to conduct background research on salary ranges for their desired positions and seek advice from experts in their fields. Regarding AI, she reassured students that while machines and AI are increasingly prevalent, they still require human operation and control.

"AI is not phasing out human labour; instead, it is changing the nature of work. As IT and Computer Science professionals, you will be needed to develop, maintain, and improve these technologies," she explained.

Miriam Taremwa, the Deputy Campus Administrator, expressed her heartfelt appreciation to the guest speakers, Dr. Kyeyune and Kirabo, for sharing their invaluable insights and experiences with the students.

She encouraged the students to work diligently towards their academic goals, while also emphasizing the importance of engaging in extracurricular activities, such as sports. "These activities not only foster personal growth but also offer opportunities for networking, skill-building, and character development," she noted.

As a take-home message, Dr. Kyeyune advised students, "This is a youthful life, but enjoy it with common sense." Following the exhibition, guest speakers Kirabo and Dr Kyeyube paid a visit to Prof. Muhammed Ngoma the Vice Chancellor. During the visit, she gifted KIU with 11 copies of her insightful book titled "Without The Leader, There Is No Customer Experience" a donation from Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda. 

The career exhibition presented students with valuable insights and advice on preparing for their future careers.