Dr. Richard Wismayer, Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences Equator Univ...
February 23, 2026
Equator University of Science and Technology (EQUSaT) in Masaka hosted the 2nd Annual Youth Empowerment Forum at its Kasijjagirwa campus under the theme “Accelerating Innovation to Unlock Potential.” The event, held in partnership with Helping Hands for Relief and Development (HHRD), brought together students, youth leaders, and community members for a full day of inspiration, learning, and dialogue on innovation, leadership, financial literacy, mental health, and climate change.
The forum was officially opened by Prof. Mouhamad Mpezamihigo, the Vice Chancellor of EQUSaT, who applauded the initiative as a platform that empowers young people to become change-makers in their communities through creative and sustainable thinking.
“Our youth are the backbone of development. Empowering them with the right mindset, leadership skills, and innovative ideas will shape a more resilient and productive Uganda,” Prof. Mpezamihigo said while officiating the event.
Throughout the day, participants engaged in a series of interactive sessions led by professional speakers and youth mentors from HHRD and EQUSaT. The discussions explored a wide range of themes including financial management and money habits, mental health awareness, transformational leadership, and climate change adaptation and environmental sustainability.
Speakers encouraged young people to take an active role in mitigating the effects of climate change through innovation, community engagement, and sustainable practices. The climate-focused sessions highlighted the importance of green entrepreneurship and environmental responsibility as key pillars in modern development.
The event also provided networking opportunities for youth to share ideas, pitch innovative solutions, and connect with mentors who guided them on how to transform their passions into impactful ventures.
In his closing remarks, the EQUSaT Guild President, Ahmed Baryamujura, thanked the university administration and HHRD for organizing the event, noting that it had equipped participants with the knowledge and confidence to make meaningful contributions to their communities.