Forum For African Women Educationalists (FAWE) Uganda Chapter
Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE) Uganda in partnership with Gulu University hosted the Career Expo from 9-12 April 2025. The four-day event, themed “The Future of Work: Preparing for Careers in a Changing World,” brought together students, FAWE Uganda alumni, educators, and industry leaders to explore career opportunities, share success stories, and equip young people with the skills needed to thrive in an evolving job market. Held in Gulu City, the Expo featured keynote speeches, interactive sessions, and a variety of impactful activities designed to inspire and prepare the next generation of leaders and innovators.
The opening ceremony was officiated by Hon. Betty Aol Ocan, Woman MP for Gulu City, who encouraged young people to study hard and seize every opportunity available to them. “Education is the key to unlocking your potential,” she emphasized, setting a motivational tone for the event.
FAWE Uganda’s Executive Director, Susan Opok Tumusiime, and Gulu University Vice Chancellor, Prof. George Openjuru Laadah, were instrumental in popularising the event through a symbolic march around Gulu City alongside students and alumni. Prof. Openjuru urged attendees to embrace lifelong learning, while Mrs. Tumusiime reiterated FAWE Uganda’s commitment to empowering youth, especially girls, through education and mentorship.
One of the most inspiring moments came from Captain Faridah Ashaba, one of Uganda’s successful female pilots. She shared her journey of overcoming barriers in a male-dominated field and encouraged attendees to dream big despite societal challenges. “With determination and hard work, you can achieve anything.” Her story resonated deeply with participants, particularly young women aspiring to break barriers in their chosen careers.
The Expo wasn’t just about speeches; it was also about action and giving back. Over 200 FAWE Uganda alumni convened during the event to fundraise for charitable causes as part of their Community Give Back Initiative. Their collective efforts resulted in donations of food items to patients at St. Mary’s Hospital Lacor and St. Jude’s Children’s Home in Gulu. This gesture showcased their commitment to community service.
Throughout the event, FAWE Uganda Alumni and program participants engaged in interactive sessions on entrepreneurship, career guidance, product exhibition and leadership development.
The closing ceremony was graced by Hon. Charles Onen, Member of Parliament for Gulu City East, who contributed to FAWE Uganda’s 20K for Transformation campaign, a fundraising initiative aimed at supporting girls to complete secondary school level education.
FAWE Uganda remains committed to bridging gender gaps in education and creating opportunities for marginalised youth across the country. Together with partners like Gulu University and other stakeholders, we are building a brighter future, one student at a time.
FAWE Uganda was established in 1997 with the goal of accelerating female participation in education and closing the gender gap within the education system at all levels in Uganda.