UGANDA — Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development.
Dr. Lakisa Mercy Faith has called for greater investment in youth innovation and clean cooking technologies following the successful conclusion of the 2nd Schools’ Electric Cooking Competition at the Renewable Energy Conference 2026 (REC2026).
Dr. Lakisa, who presided over the closing ceremony, presented awards to outstanding students and schools after three days of competition showcasing creativity, teamwork and innovation in modern cooking.
The competition demonstrated how young people can contribute to Uganda’s transition towards cleaner and more sustainable cooking solutions through practical skills, creativity and the adoption of modern technology.
Electric pressure cookers featured prominently in the initiative, enabling students to demonstrate how familiar family meals can be prepared efficiently while supporting efforts to reduce reliance on conventional cooking fuels.
Dr. Lakisa commended the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development and the National Renewable Energy Platform (NREP), with support from the UK Government through the Modern Energy Cooking Services (MECS) programme, for championing the initiative.
She emphasised the importance of introducing learners to practical innovations that address everyday challenges while equipping them with skills relevant to a cleaner and more sustainable future.
The competition also highlighted the role of schools in nurturing talent and encouraging learners to explore solutions that promote environmental sustainability and responsible energy use.
Dr. Lakisa urged schools, parents and development partners to sustain the momentum by supporting young innovators, promoting practical learning and empowering students to become advocates of clean cooking in their communities.
She congratulated all the winners and participants for their efforts, noting that initiatives such as REC2026 provide an important platform for young people to demonstrate their potential in advancing Uganda’s clean cooking transition.
The event reinforced the importance of collaboration between government institutions, development partners and educational institutions in promoting clean energy awareness and inspiring the next generation of innovators.
