KAMPALA, UGANDA — The Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, Hon. Dr. Mercy Faith Lakisa, who also serves as the Woman Member of Parliament for Alebtong District, has joined partners and stakeholders in celebrating 50 years of cooperation between Uganda and the European Union (EU), highlighting the importance of empowering young people to drive national development.
The celebrations featured a Research and Study Fair at Makerere University in Kampala, bringing together stakeholders to reflect on the role of education, research, innovation and international cooperation in shaping Uganda’s future.
The milestone also provided an opportunity to reflect on five decades of Uganda–EU relations, with discussions focusing on shared values, progress and opportunities for stronger collaboration in areas that support social and economic development.
Hon. Lakisa emphasised the importance of placing young people at the centre of Uganda’s development agenda, describing them as innovators, researchers and emerging leaders who are actively contributing to the country’s progress.
She stressed that targeted investments in education, practical skills development and innovation are essential to creating sustainable opportunities for young Ugandans to realise their potential.
The minister noted that young people should not be viewed merely as beneficiaries of development but as active participants in shaping the country’s future through their ideas, creativity and leadership.
She further highlighted the importance of partnerships that support skills acquisition, research and innovation, noting that such initiatives can help prepare young people to respond to emerging social and economic challenges.
The celebrations also included an evening engagement hosted by the European Union Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Jan Sadek, at the EU Residence in Kampala, bringing together partners and stakeholders to reflect on the longstanding relationship between Uganda and the European Union.
Hon. Lakisa reaffirmed her commitment to youth empowerment, calling for sustained investment in education, practical skills and innovation to ensure that young Ugandans have meaningful opportunities to thrive. She expressed optimism that continued cooperation would strengthen the prospects of the next generation and contribute to a prosperous, inclusive and resilient Uganda.
