Power Africa Collaborates With USAID To Train Over 700 Women and Youth for Jobs in Nigeria’s Clean Energy Sector.
The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and Power Africa have announced the successful conclusion of a landmark programme aimed at boosting women’s participation in Nigeria’s clean energy sector. The initiative, a priority under the Biden-Harris Administration, has provided over 700 women and youth with the skills and opportunities to pursue careers in clean energy.
Launched in September 2023, the “Growing Green Jobs for Women in Nigeria” programme has been instrumental in equipping participants with critical skills needed for the energy sector’s transition to clean technologies. The training covered a range of areas including solar installation, off-grid project management, communication, leadership, climate finance, financial modelling, investment pitching, productive use equipment, and employability skills.
A highlight of the programme was the “Elevate: Women’s Solar Installation Certification Course,” which provided hands-on training in solar photovoltaic installation. Eighty-eight women from Lagos, Ibadan, and Abuja completed the course, earning certification under the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria’s Nigerian Competency Standards for Clean Energy.
In addition to technical training, Power Africa organised career fairs in Abuja and Lagos. These events not only provided networking opportunities but also trained participating organisations on gender inclusion best practices. Around 40 clean energy companies took part, offering job shadowing opportunities and fostering connections between trained professionals and potential employers.
This initiative marks a significant step forward in enhancing gender inclusion and expanding career opportunities within Nigeria’s burgeoning clean energy sector, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable development.