By Alfred Opio
Job seekers across the Bukedi sub-region have been urged to maintain decency and professionalism in their appearance while applying for employment in both government and private institutions.
The warning was issued by Fredrick Oketch, the Mbale Regional Inspectorate Officer, following complaints from several offices about how some applicants present themselves during interviews and official visits.
Oketch emphasized that although academic qualifications and work experience remain key requirements, personal presentation can significantly influence an employer’s first impression.
“Smartness matters a lot. Even if your clothes are not expensive or high class, you can still look neat and decent,” he said. “The way you present yourself can either build or destroy your chances.”
He expressed concern over what he described as inappropriate dressing, particularly among some male youth who attend interviews in sagging trousers, overly casual wear, or outfits unsuitable for formal office settings.
“Sometimes it is disturbing to see young people walk into offices dressed below their waists while looking for jobs. Such dressing creates a negative impression even before the interview begins,” Oketch noted.
According to him, there have been cases where candidates performed well during interviews but missed out on opportunities because employers viewed their appearance as a sign of poor attitude or lack of seriousness.
However, not all job seekers agree that dressing is the main barrier to employment. Joseph Okinyom, a Business Administration graduate who says he has spent seven years searching for formal employment, believes other issues play a bigger role.
“Dressing code is not the problem nowadays. Jobs are being given based on relationships and payments,” Okinyom claimed. “I always dress smartly for interviews and perform well, but I am never successful because I do not have money to pay or relatives in those offices.”
He called on the Government of Uganda to strengthen the fight against corruption and favoritism in recruitment processes to ensure that jobs are awarded based on merit rather than connections.
Okinyom also urged authorities to enhance monitoring and oversight in both public and private institutions to promote transparency and fairness in hiring.
The remarks have sparked debate among residents in the region, with some backing the call for professional appearance, while others stress the need to address alleged corruption and nepotism within the job market.
Local leaders continue to encourage job seekers to remain decent, confident, and disciplined as they pursue opportunities, while institutions work toward improving integrity and accountability in recruitment.
