Kabale University, under the 10th Guild Government, has hosted the NSSF Career Expo 2026 at Kikungiri Main Hall, drawing attention to the growing debate on the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on careers under the theme: “Man or Machine: Exploring AI’s Impact on Careers.”
The event, held on April 21, 2026, brought together students, financial experts, and industry leaders to discuss how young people can prepare for an evolving job market increasingly influenced by technology.
AI seen as a tool, not a replacement for humans
Speaking at the expo, the Senior Manager for Western Regional Operations at the National Social Security Fund (NSSF Uganda), David Rwamatungi Mwesigwa, emphasized that AI should be understood as a tool rather than a replacement for human intelligence.
He noted that AI lacks emotions and independent thinking, stressing that it only enhances human productivity when properly used.
“AI is a memory; it is not conscious of itself. It does not feel, so it cannot replace humans. It is a tool that enhances our intelligence to produce better results,” he said.
Rwamatungi drew historical comparisons, noting that past technological revolutions—such as the introduction of machines—faced resistance due to fears of job loss, but eventually improved productivity and created new opportunities.
He encouraged students to adapt to modern learning methods, pointing out how education has evolved from traditional methods such as writing on sand to digital learning using computers and online platforms.
Call for financial discipline and early planning
The NSSF official urged students to begin financial planning early, emphasizing the importance of savings, bank accounts, and NSSF registration.
He challenged students in their final years of study to prepare for independence after school, noting that they must transition from relying on parents to becoming financially responsible adults.
“You are in the market of life. A career is your work journey. You must prepare for it early,” he said.
He further revealed that NSSF continues to engage with students through internships and graduate trainee programs, which can lead to future employment opportunities.
AI will not replace humans, experts insist
The Founder of AI Studio Uganda, Roland F. Ganafa, told students that the modern job market requires more than academic qualifications.
He warned that relying solely on a degree is no longer sufficient in today’s evolving digital economy.
“The degree alone will not be relevant without additional skills in this era. AI is here to stay, and we must prepare to work with it,” he said.
Ganafa emphasized that AI should be used to solve real-life challenges, especially within Uganda, noting that machines depend on human direction and data input to function effectively.
He dismissed fears that AI would replace humans, arguing instead that humans who understand how to use AI will replace those who do not.
Financial institutions encourage student empowerment
The Credit Director at ABSA Bank Uganda, Racheal Rwakatungu, also addressed the students, encouraging them to adopt a disciplined savings culture and make use of financial services early.
She stressed that while AI can support decision-making, it cannot replace human judgment in complex situations.
“AI is not a competitor to humans. It is a tool for development, but it cannot replace human judgment,” she said.
Rwakatungu further encouraged students to open bank accounts and engage with financial institutions to build strong financial foundations for the future.
University leadership urges participation
Declaring the event officially open, Kabale University Dean of Students, Amos Tukamushaba, encouraged students to actively engage with experts and exhibitors.
He said the expo offered a valuable opportunity for students to learn, network, and understand how AI is shaping the future of work.
First of its kind at Kabale University
This marks the first time Kabale University has hosted the NSSF Career Expo under the guidance of the 10th Guild Government, which mobilized students and ensured strong participation.
Organizers said the event successfully brought together students, academia, financial institutions, and technology experts to explore how AI can be integrated responsibly into education, finance, and employment systems.
AI Studio Uganda highlighted its ongoing work with institutions across sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, finance, and governance, emphasizing data sovereignty and contextual innovation.
The expo concluded with a strong message: AI is not a threat to human jobs, but a powerful tool that requires skills, discipline, and adaptability to harness effectively in the modern world.
