The Electricity Regulatory Authority (ERA) has launched an empowering initiative aimed at inspiring and motivating young girls to pursue science subjects and careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).
This proactive effort seeks to bridge the gender gap in STEM fields and foster a more inclusive future for Uganda’s next generation of innovators and leaders.
The campaign was launched at Hornby High School in Kabale Municipality and is designed to encourage young girls to pursue their academic aspirations, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
By promoting STEM education, the initiative aims to challenge traditional norms and encourage girls to move beyond the conventional preference for arts subjects and embrace the vast opportunities available in science and technology.
Safinah Naggayi, Head of Human Resources at ERA, emphasized the importance of girls pursuing science careers, using the energy sector as an example. She noted that the field of sciences provides an easier path to compete for jobs.
Naggayi also revealed that ERA has been conducting this campaign since 2019, visiting different regions and selecting lead schools to participate.
She further mentioned that the month of March has been designated as “Women in Energy” month, during which ERA conducts various initiatives to support girls in pursuing careers in the energy sector.
“In the energy sector, right from the ministry, which is led by a female minister, to the PS who is also a lady, and our institution, ERA, where the board chair is a woman, we have seen this as a less competitive area where women can seize opportunities,” Naggayi explained.
“So, we encourage girls to stay in school and take science subjects. With the competition for jobs and the pursuit of well-paying careers, a background in science is crucial,” she emphasized.
Agnes Tumuhaise, a Biology and Chemistry teacher at St. Mary’s Rushoroza, noted that girls often find science subjects challenging, which leads some to drop them. She encouraged teachers to adopt modern teaching methods and materials to make science more accessible and engaging.
“I would encourage teachers, school administrators, and society members who interact with these students to always motivate and support them in taking up science subjects,” Tumuhaise said.
The campaign has been met with praise from educators, with the Deputy Headteacher of Hornby High School applauding ERA’s initiative.
The Ugandan government has consistently emphasized the importance of science and technology in driving the country’s socio-economic development, and this campaign is a significant step in that direction.