KIU MAIN CAMPUS - The College of Economics and Management and Family Uplift Uganda in partnership with Coca-Cola Beverages Uganda on Friday, 21st March 2025 spearheaded a Youth Economic Inclusion Program - Campus Version at Kampala International University (KIU).

Following a thought-provoking public lecture on combating corruption, the financial literacy training program was conducted to equip young people with practical skills in personal finance and entrepreneurship. The initiative aimed to empower university students to manage their finances effectively, both during their studies and beyond, and cultivate a culture of integrity and accountability.

The trainers were experts and successful entrepreneurs who shared their success stories in career, business and hands-on knowledge to empower students financially.

Keynote speaker Esther Mwajuma Munduru, Founder and Executive Director of Family Uplift Uganda and a proud KIU alumna emphasized that poverty is a primary driver of corruption. She stressed that empowering individuals through financial literacy training is a crucial step towards eradicating corruption, highlighting the importance of capacity building in this area.

"To achieve financial literacy, you must be deliberate and proactive in managing your finances. Take the time to educate yourself through books and other resources, and continually seek ways to improve your personal financial management skills," Munduru advised, emphasizing, "In today's rapidly changing world, a stable financial foundation is essential."

Munduru also cautioned students against becoming too comfortable or stagnant, emphasizing that while a degree is essential, it is crucial to continually seek knowledge and skills to remain competitive in the real world.

“Do not get too comfortable. Time is the most valuable resource for generating wealth. If you have skills, utilize them to make money and be creative in your pursuits," she added.

Phillip Kiryowa, a banker from Equity Bank, urged students to open bank accounts and develop savings habits. “The training you receive here is invaluable and will serve you well in the long run. I would rather equip you with financial knowledge than simply provide a loan,” he noted.

Christine Ndagire, a primary school teacher and waste management entrepreneur, shared her inspiring story of resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic. When schools closed, Ndagire leveraged her resourcefulness to start a plastic bottle recycling business. Today, she employs over 45 youths and has raised awareness about proper waste management in over 35 schools.

"Do not just see problems, see opportunities. Turn the challenges around you into chances to earn a living and make a difference,” she added.

In his closing remarks, the moderator of the session Dr. Joel Isabirye, Head of the Journalism and Media Studies Department, offered words of encouragement to the students.

 “You do not need to start with grand ambitions. Begin with small, achievable steps. The key is to take that initial step and momentum will follow," he said.

The Youth Economic Inclusion Program - Campus Version at KIU marked a significant milestone in empowering students to take charge of their financial lives. As the students move forward, armed with the wisdom to start small, be proactive, and turn challenges into opportunities, they are poised to make a lasting impact in their communities and beyond.