SEATINI Uganda, Oxfam, ActionAid and Tax Justice Network-Africa, in partnership with Uganda Christian University as the host, is organising an inter-university students debate, as an opportunity for students in universities in Uganda to learn about tax justice. The debate is expected to introduce the students to the concept of tax justice and the role they play in pushing their governments to effect progressive taxation measures as well as mechanisms to curb the outflow of resources. Despite having been previously exposed to some of the content matter on tax as part of their training, the Debate will expose them to different material, especially that of a research nature. This would go a long way in giving them a glimpse into other perspectives especially on emerging linkages between tax and development and most of all, make them aware of the responsibilities that await them as future leaders and decision-makers on Uganda’s financing for development prospects.
The one- day event is set to draw participation from 90 students across nine universities in Uganda. Each team from the nine universities will comprise of three members who would go head- to head with other teams.
Specific objectives of the debate are to;
- Train students on taxation and tax justice in Uganda.
- Provide a platform for students to discuss and debate about financing for development issues.
- Cement ties with partners and academic institutions across the region.
Proposed Debate Topics
The main topics under examination would come from key areas of financing for development. Issues to be deliberated on include:
- Double Taxation Agreements
- Tax Incentives
- Taxation of the Informal Sector
These would need to be refined further, for example, as follows:
- Tax incentives are an important tool for encouraging investment in Uganda.
- Double Taxation Agreements and their implication on domestic revenue mobilisation
- Taxation of the informal sector is key enhancing equality in Uganda.
The following are the universities which have been targeted for the debate;
- Makerere University
- Uganda Christian University
- Islamic University of Uganda
- International University of East Africa
- Kampala International University
- Cavendish University
- Uganda Martyrs University, Nkozi
- Ndejje University
- Nkumba University
You can follow the conversation through #UniTaxDebateUG