Kiboga, Uganda: The Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA) has launched its 2026 Women in Energy school outreach programme, targeting increased participation of girls in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and expanding women’s role in Uganda’s energy sector.
The programme was unveiled on March 27 at Bukomero Secondary School in Kiboga District, bringing together students from six secondary schools.
The launch was presided over by Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Ruth Nankabirwa, who called on young girls to pursue STEM disciplines and take advantage of opportunities in the energy sector.
“You must believe in yourselves and embrace opportunities in science and technology. The energy sector offers vast career prospects for women,” Nankabirwa said.
She also reaffirmed government’s commitment to clean energy transition, highlighting the introduction of a special lower cooking tariff for institutions to promote sustainable energy use.
ERA Board Chairperson Eng Grania Rosette Rubomboras urged students to remain disciplined and avoid negative influences. She cautioned against distractions such as social media misuse, peer pressure, and risky behaviour, encouraging learners to stay focused on their education and future careers.
Officials said the outreach will be rolled out across multiple districts, including Hoima, Masindi, Soroti, and Kaberamaido, targeting thousands of students. The initiative is part of broader efforts to bridge the gender gap in Uganda’s energy sector, where women remain underrepresented.
The launch attracted participation from key energy sector players, including Berkeley Energy Limited, Bujagali Energy Limited, Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (UETCL), and Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL).
ERA also announced that its Annual Women in Energy Forum will take place on April 14, 2026, bringing together stakeholders from academia and industry to advance discussions on women’s leadership in the sector.
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