By Julius Mugaga Tukacungurwa/Umoja Standard.
Kampala, Uganda: Approximately 809 million acres of Russia is covered with forests, while only 15.2% or 2.9 million square acres of Uganda is forested, indicating a significant ecological difference.
Only 22.7% of the entire African continent is covered in forests, showcasing the limited forest resources available in Africa.
On healthcare, Uganda Bureau of Statistics recently released census 2024 data, citing great need for upgrading services and investment.
In comparison, the US uses about 1 million megawatts of electricity annually, highlighting the disparity compared to Africa in energy production.
Emphasis need to be put on maintaining African cultural identity while also integrating beneficial aspects from other cultures.
In the field of Education, 56% of individuals aged 15 to 65 are graduates, indicating a significant level of education, but there is still room for improvement in the education system.
Only 35% of African youth aged 15 to 35 have obtained higher education, suggesting a need for growth in educational opportunities.
Panelists discuss different topics during the International Youth Fest 2024.
Iliosova Ilona, founder of the International Youth Fest, emphasized the importance of unity and collective action in driving positive change. Quoting Martin Luther King, Ilona encouraged the youth to strive for greatness, even if it starts with small steps.
Iliosova Ilona, Founder International Youth Fest (IYF) delivers her address at the IYF 2024 at International University of East Africa, Kampala-Uganda.
Ilona expressed gratitude to the organizers, speakers, and attendees, acknowledging the collective effort that made the event possible. The founder also invited the audience to the concert the following day, promising an exciting experience.
The International Youth Fest aims to foster global unity, promote cultural exchange, and empower the youth to become active change-makers.
With Ilona’s inspiring words, the festival is poised to inspire a new generation of leaders to strive for greatness, together.
Students from various school are seen paying attention to candid Discussion during the International Youth Fest 2024.
Discussing the energy question, Hon. Sidronius Okaasai Opolot, Minister of State for Mineral Development, revealed that countries like Senegal, Tunisia, Uganda, Kenya, Ghana, Nigeria, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Sudan, and Algeria are at various stages of planning to enter the nuclear energy sector.
“Uganda, in particular, has set ambitious energy development plans, aiming to generate 50,000 MW of power by 2040, a significant increase from its current 2,000 MW. Of this, 24,000 MW is expected to come from nuclear energy, highlighting its crucial role in the country’s energy strategy.” He noted.
“To achieve this, Uganda is focusing on exploring economically viable uranium sources and developing human resources for nuclear energy. This includes encouraging science studies among students and partnering with international organizations. The country has also signed Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with Russia, South Korea, and China to collaborate in the nuclear energy sector.” He added.
He highlighted some key developments in pipeline that include;
Four potential sites_ identified for nuclear power plants in Africa, Legislative update_ needed to align with current developments, with input from partners, International partnerships_ forged to support nuclear energy growth
“As Africa seeks to meet its growing energy demands while reducing carbon emissions, nuclear energy is emerging as a vital component of its energy mix.” He stated.
Prof. Emeka Akaezuwa, Vice Chancellor of International University of East Africa, emphasized the vital role of youth in advancing technology and sustainable development.
Prof. Emeka Akaezuwa, Vice Chancellor of International University of East Africa gives opening remarks during the event.
He highlighted the critical importance of energy in development, noting that without it, industries can notify function and basic needs like powering homes cannot be met.
Akaezuwa also stressed the significance of culture, defining it as the backbone of our identity that needs to be protected, developed, and shared. He pointed out the substantial energy requirements of emerging technologies like Bitcoin and digital currency, signaling a significant shift in the global economic landscape.
The Vice Chancellor expressed concerns about the need for innovative healthcare systems to address the growing population and emerging viruses, citing the coronavirus as a recent example.
To address these challenges, Akaezuwa encouraged the youth to become policymakers and entrepreneurs, focusing on solutions for nuclear and green energy, as well as innovation in culture and education.
Russian delegation led by Iliosova Ilona Founder International University Fest, other participants share photo opportunity at the sidelines of the IYF 2024 event at International University of East Africa, Kampala -Uganda.
Eric Gitta from the Ministry of Education and Sports highlighted the need for change citing the President’s call for a shift towards science education. The goal is to produce more scientists and engineers to drive the country’s transformation.
To achieve this, the government is procuring digital technological equipment for educational institutions and collaborating with specialists and industries.
The government has also come up with key reforms say;
A shift to practical over theory to foster hands-on learning, Research opportunities for students, Digital upgrade through supply of educational institutions with digital technological equipment
These reforms aim to equip Ugandan youth with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world.
The Youth Fest featured different sessions giving insights on Healthcare and Ecology then Culture and Education.