By David Mwanje
The Bank of Uganda of Governor Michael Atingi-Ego officially launched the third season of “The Ultimate University Quiz” (TUUQ). In a stirring address, he hailed the event as a transformative platform for Uganda’s youth, urging students to harness curiosity, boldness, and collaboration to shape the nation’s future.
Speaking to a vibrant audience of students, university representatives, and partners including Vision Group, Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), and National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) Governor Atingi-Ego framed TUUQ as more than a competition. “This is not merely about answering questions,” he declared. “It is a crucible of critical thinking, a laboratory of leadership, and a workshop of wisdom.” With the Bank of Uganda nearing its 60th anniversary, he emphasized its commitment to fostering intellectual capital as a cornerstone of economic resilience.
TUUQ, now in its third season, challenges university students to tackle multidisciplinary questions spanning economics, climate change, artificial intelligence, and global affairs. Governor Atingi-Ego underscored its relevance in preparing students for real-world complexities, noting that the quiz’s mental rigor mirrors the decision-making demands of boardrooms and parliaments. “The agility of thought TUUQ cultivates is precisely what Uganda needs to navigate the 21st century,” he said, highlighting its role in fostering rapid associative reasoning and composure under pressure.
The Governor praised the power of partnerships, crediting co-sponsors NEMA and UCC for amplifying the event’s impact through synergy. He lauded Vision Group for its steadfast commitment, urging both his team at the Bank of Uganda and Vision Group to elevate TUUQ into a national institution. “Let us make TUUQ a cultural legacy,” he challenged, envisioning a program that families watch together, fostering shared experiences and inspiring younger students to pursue academic excellence.
Addressing the universities, Governor Atingi-Ego called them “cradles of Uganda’s intellectual capital,” emphasizing TUUQ’s role in showcasing well-rounded learners. He stressed inclusivity, advocating for diverse representation across institutions and disciplines to democratize excellence. “This is about cultivating minds that transform information into innovation,” he said, noting that TUUQ’s rigorous selection ensures integrity while celebrating Uganda’s brightest talents.
Beyond academia, TUUQ contributes to Uganda’s cultural and media landscape. The Governor highlighted its role in developing local television content, pushing the boundaries of the nation’s film and media industry. “This is an investment in our capacity to tell our own stories authentically,” he said, envisioning TUUQ as a beacon of national pride that signals the value of knowledge and critical thinking.
To the students, Governor Atingi-Ego issued a clarion call: “Seize this moment.” He urged them to embrace curiosity, boldness, collaboration, and composure, noting that TUUQ’s challenges mirror future career demands. “The intellectual muscles you flex here will serve you long after the final question,” he said, predicting that participants would gain lasting recognition as champions of intellectual achievement.
As he declared Season Three open, Governor Atingi-Ego rallied all stakeholders to champion platforms that empower youth. “The future belongs to those who learn, unlearn, and relearn,” he concluded, quoting 1 Corinthians 9:24 to inspire competitors to “run in such a way that you may win.” With Uganda’s brightest minds ready to compete, TUUQ promises to ignite intellectual discourse and drive socio-economic transformation.
