Kampala, Uganda — The Uganda Institute of Banking and Financial Services (UIBFS) today marked a significant milestone by unveiling a fresh brand identity and celebrating the graduation of over 300 students—an impressive increase from last year.
The ceremony, led by the Institute’s Chief Executive Officer, Goretti Masade, was a “two-in-one” grand occasion highlighting both transformation and achievement. For the first time in its 57-year history, UIBFS has changed its emblematic logo from the traditional drum and coat of arms to a dynamic flying crane, symbolizing progress, learning, transformation, and leadership.
“This change is fundamental to our mission of professionalizing Uganda’s banking industry while promoting financial inclusion across the country,” Masade said. “We are evolving to meet the demands of a rapidly changing financial landscape.”
The new brand aligns with UIBFS’s broader mandate to secure statutory recognition through an act of parliament, a move supported by the Central Bank of Uganda and partners. This recognition will enforce standardized qualifications and a competency framework, ensuring career progression for banking professionals — from entry-level tellers to CEOs.
Masade explained the current challenges facing the sector: “It is possible to enter banking as a teller and remain stagnant for years due to lack of clear career pathways. Our competency framework will provide structured guidance on the qualifications and skills needed at every stage.”
The Institute is also intensifying efforts in research, with plans to launch a research agenda focused on practical industry challenges. Partnerships with universities, including Makerere and Mbarara, will further enhance research capacity.
UIBFS is pioneering training in emerging fields such as sustainable finance, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices, and data analytics—preparing students and professionals for the future.
Growing Impact and Female Empowerment
This year’s record graduation of over 300 students reflects heightened awareness and improved training offerings, including new short certificate programs lasting three months. These programs strike a balance between depth of knowledge and affordability, attracting a broader audience.
“We are particularly encouraged by the growing participation of women,” Masade noted. “While women make up 70% of lower-tier banking roles, only 30% occupy senior positions. Our programs aim to empower more women to ascend to leadership roles.”
Central Bank Patron’s Commendation
The event was graced by the patron of UIBFS and Governor of the Bank of Uganda, Dr. Michael Atingi-Ego, whose remarks were delivered by Richard Byaruhanga, Executive Director Finance at the Bank of Uganda. Though the Governor and his deputy could not attend, their support was keenly felt.
Byaruhanga read the Governor’s message, highlighting the critical role of professional banking qualifications in safeguarding the integrity of Uganda’s financial sector.
“When we have qualified, competent professionals like you, the sector’s stability and public trust are assured,” he said. “This milestone signals a new era of professionalism and excellence in banking.”
He encouraged graduates to embody the Institute’s values as brand ambassadors and urged UIBFS to continue pursuing “Kaizen” — the Japanese principle of continuous improvement — to maintain quality and relevance.
A Bright Future Ahead
The ceremony also emphasized the importance of lifelong learning, innovation, and ethical leadership amid a challenging job market.
“Education is the most powerful weapon to change the world,” Byaruhanga quoted Nelson Mandela, urging graduates to apply their skills to positively impact society and lead Uganda’s financial sector into a sustainable future
