UIBFS Research Conference 2025
Why a Research Conference Matters Now
Across Uganda’s banking and financial services sector, research is conducted year after year, rich in theory and insights. Yet much of this work has often remained distant from the day-to-day challenges faced by financial institutions.
This gap between academia and practice has limited opportunities for data-driven innovation, informed policy development, and evidence-based problem-solving.
In response, the Uganda Institute of Banking and Financial Services (UIBFS), in partnership with the School of Business at Makerere University, convened its inaugural Research Conference to bridge theory and practice and foster collaboration that supports financial sector transformation.
About the 2025 Research Conference
Held on 22nd August 2025, the conference brought together policymakers, regulators, financial sector leaders, researchers, academics, innovators, and students to explore how research can catalyze meaningful transformation in Uganda’s financial system.
Key Highlights
- A keynote address from the Governor, Bank of Uganda, Mr. Michael Atingi-Ego, delivered by Mr. David Kalyango, Executive Director Supervision at BoU.
- Opening remarks by the Minister of State for Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Mr. Henry Musaasizi.
- Strategic reflections from the UIBFS CEO, Mrs. Goretti Masadde.
- Insights from Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe on strengthening research culture in the financial sector.
The One-Day Event Featured
- Panel discussions
- Academic paper presentations
- Launch of the UIBFS Research Fund
- Unveiling of the Book of Abstracts
Key Research Focus Areas
Digital Finance & Artificial Intelligence
Exploring technology-driven transformation and the future of intelligent financial services.
Climate Change and Monetary Policy
Examining how climate risks and sustainability concerns shape economic and policy decisions.
Financial Inclusion & Consumer Protection
Addressing access, fairness, trust, and protection for underserved and vulnerable groups.
Risk Management & Financial Stability
Strengthening resilience through robust risk strategies and evidence-based sector oversight.
The Role of Research in Financial Sector Growth
Reinforcing the urgency of practical solutions grounded in robust data and contextual analysis.
Conference Resources
Make conference materials easily accessible to your website visitors by linking the documents below.
Introducing the UIBFS Research Fund
To ensure that research becomes a practical tool for industry transformation, UIBFS launched the Research Fund — a strategic initiative designed to support applied, industry-focused research.
The Fund aims to:
- Provide financial support for research addressing real-world challenges in the financial sector
- Encourage collaboration between industry and academia
- Support policy-shaping research that strengthens Uganda’s financial ecosystem
- Promote innovative, data-driven approaches to financial services delivery
This Fund is a call to action for institutions, development partners, industry leaders, and individual contributors to invest in research that drives progress, innovation, and sustainability in Uganda’s financial sector.
Partners & Sponsors
This inaugural conference was made possible through the support and collaboration of institutions committed to advancing financial sector research.