The International University of East Africa (IUEA) proudly hosted Youth Fest 2024 under the theme “The Role of Young People in Advancing Technology, Sustainable Energy & Global Business.”
The event, held on October 4th and 5th, 2024, provided an interactive platform for youth to showcase their innovations, engage in meaningful discussions, and connect with global experts.
The Youth Fest 2024 featured insightful panel discussions, exhibitions, and speeches, highlighting the importance of youth participation in shaping future industries. It was an opportunity for young minds to engage with topics like technology, nuclear energy, healthcare, and business, all under the overarching goal of sustainable development.
In his keynote address, IUEA’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Emeka Akaezuwa, emphasized the importance of both technology and sustainable energy in driving Africa’s progress. He pointed out the significance of nuclear energy in powering systems, stressing that the preservation of the environment must be a shared responsibility:
To power our systems, we need both technology and energy. Nuclear energy for Africa is becoming a vital topic of discussion. Equally important is the conversation on ecology: We live on planet Earth, and it must be safeguarded for future generations.
Ilona Iliasova, Director of the Department of Intercultural Communications at BRICS Alliance Strategies, spoke on the global nature of today’s education and the potential of young people to bring about transformative change:
Young people are known for doing great things in unique ways. To create significant change, we should unite and share innovation and culture to change our world.
Another notable contribution came from Aleksei Semenov, Head of Business Development for Rosatom Central and South Africa, who discussed the economic impact of investing in nuclear energy:
For every shilling invested in nuclear energy, eight shillings are returned to the economy. Even the ancillary sectors benefit, generating revenue and developing skills.
He further highlighted Rosatom’s initiatives to foster innovation in nuclear energy, offering competitions that give young innovators a chance to gain exposure in this growing sector.
The event underscored the critical role of young people in the nuclear energy industry. With Rosatom employing hundreds of thousands worldwide, the nuclear sector presents numerous career opportunities for the youth.
Judith Obino Okumu, Private Secretary to the President in charge of Political Affairs, praised the Uganda-Russia collaboration, emphasizing the opportunities this partnership offers young Ugandans:
These are opportunities that young people should take advantage of. This friendship between Uganda, Russia, and Rosatom brings many good things, and gives Uganda a platform to play in the nuclear energy world.
Day Two: Celebrating Culture, Music, and Tourism
The second day of Youth Fest 2024 was dedicated to celebrating Uganda’s rich culture, music, and tourism.
Delegates and attendees made their way to Jinja, Uganda’s Tourism City, for what was dubbed “the biggest youth party of the year.” This vibrant celebration highlighted the country’s unique cultural heritage and further reinforced the importance of cultural exchange in today’s globalized world.