Schneider Electric has introduced the Advancing Energy Tech mentorship programme in Nigeria, Kenya and South Africa as part of efforts to equip electrical engineering students with practical skills and prepare them for careers in the energy and technology sectors.

In Nigeria, the initiative is being implemented at the University of Ibadan (UI) and Yaba College of Technology (Yabatech). Participating students are matched with Schneider Electric engineers for six months of one-on-one mentorship.

The programme seeks to address the disconnect between university education and the practical competencies employers require, particularly at a time when many young graduates face difficulties finding employment that matches their qualifications.

Data from the State of the Nigerian Youth Report 2025 put youth unemployment in Nigeria at 53 per cent, underscoring the need for stronger pathways that connect education with employment opportunities.

Funmilayo Olakitan, Access to Education Program Coordinator, West Africa, Schneider Electric, said the initiative was created to reinforce the relationship between academic learning and workplace requirements.

“By linking students with industry professionals, we’re building a stronger bridge between education and employment. The future of energy depends on the skills and ideas of young engineers, and we want to support their journey,” she said.

The programme operates through VolunteerIn, the Schneider Electric Foundation’s global platform dedicated to employee-led giving and skills-based volunteering.

Participating institutions are responsible for nominating students, after which the students are paired with mentors according to their interests and career aspirations. The mentors are practising Schneider Electric engineers who offer participants practical perspectives on engineering careers and expectations in professional workplaces.

After an initial group kick-off, participants enter a structured six-month mentorship programme. The sessions cover engineering standards, compliance, teamwork, workplace conduct and career planning, among other areas.

Students are also guided on how to identify prospective employers, acquire relevant skills, expand their professional networks, improve their CVs and strengthen their personal brands.

Students who have taken part in the programme reported improvements in their communication abilities, professional profiles and understanding of real-world engineering environments.

Schneider Electric said the initiative forms part of its wider commitment to developing work-ready talent and helping young people navigate the transition from education into employment.

The company expects the programme to help build a stronger pipeline of skilled engineers who can contribute to Africa’s expanding energy and technology industries.

Source: Msme Africa online