The Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), held a training workshop titled “Women in Business Procurement and Business Development Training” at Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility, Makerere University. The training aimed at equipping women entrepreneurs with essential skills and knowledge to effectively engage in the University’s procurement processes.
Participants were trained on how to tap into opportunities available for women within both the procurement and financial sectors. The initiative forms part of the Institute’s Gender Equality Seal Project, which seeks to promote gender parity across Makerere University’s systems and processes.
In her opening remarks, Professor Sarah Ssali, Director of IGDS, encouraged participants to always pitch their ideas with confidence and clarity:
“Even when it is not a business proposal, speak with a strong voice so that when you leave the microphone, everyone knows what your project or business is about. It is through energy and confidence that people recognize good businesses.”
Representing UNDP, Ms. Beatrice Mutali commended Makerere University’s progress under the Gender Equality Seal initiative, while also highlighting persistent challenges women face in business—including limited access to capital, inadequate information, and weak business networks. She also underscored the need to address “gender blindness” in procurement processes, noting that men often question why gender considerations are prioritized, yet they are essential for achieving equality.
The workshop reaffirmed Makerere University’s commitment, in partnership with UNDP, to creating an enabling environment where women entrepreneurs can thrive and compete fairly in business opportunities.