Yearly Archives: 2026

By Roland Sseruyima

Ass. Administrator – PRAU Secretariat

The Public Relations Association of Uganda (PRAU) has successfully convened its landmark 50th Annual General Meeting (AGM) at Hotel Africana, ushering in a new era of innovation, inclusivity, and professional excellence within Uganda’s public relations landscape.

A Historic Milestone Meets Digital Innovation

Celebrating five decades of advancing the PR profession, PRAU used this golden milestone to unveil a transformative initiative, the Digital Membership Identification (ID) system. This cutting-edge platform is set to redefine how members interact with the association by offering secure, convenient, and real-time access to membership credentials.

The digital IDs empower members to:

• Seamlessly verify their professional status
• Access exclusive association services and events
• Enhance participation in PRAU activities
• Experience a more efficient and user-friendly membership journey

This innovation reflects PRAU’s strategic shift toward digital transformation, ensuring the association remains relevant in an increasingly tech-driven global environment.

Leadership Appreciation and Vision for the Future

Speaking at the AGM, PRAU President Irene Nakasiita commended members for their unwavering commitment:

“I would like to sincerely thank all our members for supporting PRAU from time to time. Your dedication has enabled both past and current Governing Councils to effectively serve and implement initiatives that continue to champion PR excellence in Uganda.”

She emphasized that the introduction of digital membership IDs is not just a technological upgrade, but a strategic move to enhance value delivery, streamline operations, and align PRAU with global industry trends.

Reflecting on Impact, Shaping the Future

The AGM provided a comprehensive platform to review PRAU’s achievements over the past year, including:

• Capacity-building and professional development programs
• Strengthened industry partnerships
• Advocacy efforts to elevate PR standards in Uganda

 

Members actively engaged in forward-thinking discussions, exploring ways to position PRAU as a leading authority in communications and public relations both regionally and globally.

Strategic Priorities for the Next Chapter

Looking ahead, the Governing Council outlined key focus areas that will define PRAU’s next phase of growth:

• PRAU @ 50 celebrations to honor legacy and impact
• Expanding and diversifying membership
• Enhancing training and professional development opportunities
• Leveraging digital technologies for improved member services

These priorities reaffirm PRAU’s mission to advance ethical practice, professional excellence, and industry collaboration.

Member-Centric Innovation at the Core

The launch of the digital ID system was met with enthusiastic reception from members, particularly for its flexibility, accessibility, and inclusivity. Demonstrations during the AGM showcased how the platform accommodates diverse user needs, ensuring ease of use for all members regardless of technological familiarity.

A Legacy of Excellence, A Future of Possibilities

As PRAU celebrates its 50th AGM, it stands as a symbol of resilience, innovation, and leadership in Uganda’s communications sector. The association’s continued commitment to embracing change while upholding its core values positions it as a driving force shaping the future of public relations.

The Golden Jubilee AGM not only reflects PRAU’s rich heritage but also signals a forward-looking vision anchored in excellence, integrity, and digital transformation, ensuring that the association remains relevant and impactful in an ever-evolving communications landscape.

By Roland Sseruyima,

Ass. Administrator – PRAU Secretariat.

As the Public Relations Association of Uganda (PRAU) marks 50 years of advancing the communications profession, this year’s National Students’ PR Symposium & Mentorship Graduation stood as a powerful reflection of both legacy and the promise of tomorrow.

Held on Friday, 13th February 2025 at Cavendish University Uganda, the event brought together industry leaders, mentors, academia, and aspiring communication professionals in a celebration of growth, purpose, and possibility. It was not just a graduation. It was a declaration that the future of public relations in Uganda is being intentionally shaped.

59 Mentees Graduate — Stepping Beyond Theory into Purpose

At the heart of the celebration were 59 graduates from Cohort Three of the PRAU Students’ Mentorship Programme, young professionals who chose to go beyond classroom theory and immerse themselves in practical, guided industry learning.

Their journey represents more than participation. It reflects initiative, curiosity, and commitment to excellence.

 

In her address, PRAU President Irene Nakasiita reminded the graduates that mentorship is not an event — it is a mindset:

“Our mentorship journey does not conclude today; it is a continuous process of learning and growth. We are delighted to support you, but your engagement and interest are essential.”

Her message was clear: opportunity demands responsibility. Growth in public relations requires discipline, integrity, and consistency.

As PRAU celebrates five decades of impact, these 59 graduates symbolize the next chapter of ethical, innovative, and purpose-driven communicators.

     

13 Mentors Appreciated — The Power of Voluntary Leadership

A defining highlight of the symposium was the appreciation of 13 mentors who voluntarily dedicated their time, expertise, and professional insight to shaping the cohort.

Their contribution embodies the true spirit of mentorship, influence, vision, and service.

One mentor captured it best:

“Public relations is not just about managing narratives; it is about building trust. And trust is built by professionals who understand both strategy and integrity.”

Through structured mentorship, PRAU continues to bridge the gap between academic preparation and industry expectations — ensuring that graduates are not only qualified, but ready.

A Call to Purpose-Driven Leadership

Delivering his remarks, Mr. Ronald Beinomugisha, Vice President PRAU, challenged the graduates to embrace mentorship as a lifelong responsibility:

“Mentorship embodies influence, vision, and service. Great mentors inspire belief, unveil unseen potential, and selflessly lift others.”

He encouraged the graduates to embrace the 5Ds of mentorship: Dream, Delay, Difficulties, Discipline, and Drive, reminding them that setbacks refine character and discipline defines professionalism.

His message resonated deeply: True motivation arises from vision, not applause.

Beyond Social Media: Building Sustainable Brands

In her keynote address, Ms. Comfort Ahumuza, Public Relations Coordinator – Harris International, urged students to think beyond trends and embrace long-term impact:

“Treat your reputation as invaluable currency; it will shape your career and influence how you are perceived.”

She challenged the graduates to integrate sustainability and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles into their practice, reminding them that public relations today shapes economies, brands, policy, and community impact.

Her call was bold: Do not just participate in the industry, influence it.

Launching Cohort 4 — A New Chapter Begins

As one cohort graduated, another began.

The event also marked the official launch of Cohort Four of the PRAU Students’ Mentorship Programme, reinforcing PRAU’s unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of communication leaders.

This cycle of growth, graduating one class while welcoming another, reflects PRAU’s long-term investment in building a strong, ethical, and forward-thinking PR community in Uganda.