The Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA) has officially launched its 2026 Women in Energy school outreach programme, a nationwide initiative aimed at increasing girls’ participation in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) and strengthening women’s presence in Uganda’s energy sector.

The programme was unveiled on March 27 at Bukomero Secondary School in Kiboga District, drawing participation from six secondary schools. The event was presided over by the Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Ruth Nankabirwa, alongside Dr. Keefa Kiwanuka, ERA Board Chairperson Eng. Grania Rosette Rubomboras, and ERA Chief Executive Officer Eng. Ziria Tibalwa Waako.

Representatives from key industry players, including Berkeley Energy Limited, Bujagali Energy Limited, Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (UETCL), and Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL), were also in attendance.

Addressing the students, Hon. Nankabirwa highlighted the importance of resilience, self-belief, and embracing opportunities within the energy sector. She urged young girls to pursue STEM disciplines, noting that the sector offers vast career prospects for women.

“You must believe in yourselves, remain resilient, and take up opportunities in STEM because the energy sector holds vast potential for your future,” she said.

The minister also highlighted government efforts to promote clean energy use, including a special lower cooking tariff for institutions, which she said is intended to accelerate the transition to sustainable energy solutions.

Dr Kiwanuka encouraged the students to remain focused on their academic journeys despite challenges, sharing his personal story of perseverance as a source of inspiration. He emphasised discipline and determination as key pillars for success in competitive fields such as science and engineering.

“Stay committed to your studies and do not be discouraged by obstacles. With determination and discipline, you can achieve your dreams,” he said.

Eng. Rubomboras called on the learners to maintain positivity and uphold dignity in their pursuits, while Eng. Tibalwa Waako cautioned against distractions that could derail their ambitions.

She advised students to remain grounded in faith and discipline, warning against the negative influence of social media, money, and risky behaviour.

“Maintain dignity, stay positive, and remain confident in your abilities as you pursue your goals,” she said.

She further rallied the students to join the fight against electricity vandalism, describing it as a threat to national development and service delivery.

Eng. Tibalwa Waako cautioned the students against distractions that could derail their ambitions, particularly in a rapidly evolving digital age.

“Avoid distractions such as money, social media, and risky behaviour. Focus on your studies, stay disciplined, and keep your faith strong,” she said.

She also called on the students to take an active role in protecting national infrastructure.

“Electricity vandalism affects all of us. You have a role to play in safeguarding these assets for the country’s development,” she added.

The outreach programme will be rolled out in several districts, including Hoima District, Masindi District, Soroti District, and Kaberamaido District, as ERA intensifies efforts to bridge the gender gap in the energy sector.

As part of the broader initiative, ERA will also host its Annual Women in Energy Forum on April 14, 2026, bringing together stakeholders from the energy sector and academia to discuss strategies for advancing women’s participation and leadership.

The outreach reflects growing recognition of the need to empower girls through education and mentorship, positioning them to take up critical roles in Uganda’s evolving energy landscape.