Nigeria faces a significant human capital deficit in its power sector, particularly within the burgeoning renewable energy field. This skills gap presents a major obstacle to the country’s ambition of expanding access to electricity and transitioning to cleaner energy sources. The National Power Training Institute of Nigeria (NAPTIN) estimates that the sector currently operates with only half the required workforce, highlighting an urgent need for targeted training and development programs to equip young Nigerians with the necessary skills. This deficiency is especially concerning given the government’s focus on renewable energy expansion and job creation. The lack of skilled professionals threatens to hinder the effective operation and maintenance of existing and future renewable energy infrastructure, potentially undermining the long-term sustainability of these projects.
Addressing this critical challenge, NAPTIN, in collaboration with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) and Eco-Innovation Empowerment Initiatives, launched the Next Gen RESCO Programme. This initiative seeks to bridge the skills gap by providing comprehensive training to young graduates in the renewable energy sector. The program, designed as a public-private partnership, aims to create a pipeline of qualified professionals to support the growth of the industry. By focusing on practical skills development, the program seeks to address the disconnect between academic qualifications and the practical expertise required for effective operation and maintenance of renewable energy systems. This approach recognizes the importance of hands-on experience in ensuring the long-term viability of renewable energy projects.
The Next Gen RESCO Programme offers specialized training in four key areas: solar photovoltaic installation and maintenance, solar PV supervision, mini-grid design, and energy efficiency. These areas were identified as crucial for building a robust and sustainable renewable energy workforce in Nigeria. The program’s curriculum emphasizes practical skills acquisition, ensuring that graduates possess the technical competence needed to operate and maintain renewable energy infrastructure effectively. This practical focus distinguishes the program from traditional academic programs, which often lack the necessary hands-on component. The emphasis on these specific areas reflects the growing demand for skilled professionals in these fields, aligning with Nigeria’s renewable energy expansion plans.
The program also promotes local content development, aiming to reduce reliance on foreign expertise and empower Nigerian youths to lead the country’s renewable energy transition. By training local professionals, the program aims to create a sustainable and self-sufficient renewable energy sector. This approach not only addresses the skills gap but also contributes to job creation and economic growth, aligning with President Tinubu’s agenda. Investing in local talent is crucial for ensuring the long-term success of renewable energy projects, as it promotes ownership and fosters a sense of responsibility for the infrastructure’s maintenance and sustainability.
The initial cohort of the Next Gen RESCO Programme comprises 120 young graduates selected from across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, ensuring equitable representation and access to opportunities. The program structure combines three months of classroom instruction at NAPTIN with a month-long internship at selected Renewable Energy Service Companies (RESCOs). This blended learning approach allows participants to acquire theoretical knowledge and apply it in real-world settings. Following the internship, top-performing trainees are offered automatic job placements, providing a clear pathway to employment in the renewable energy sector. This structured approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the demands of the industry and can contribute meaningfully to the growth of the sector.
The REA has set an ambitious target of creating an additional 10,000 jobs in the renewable energy sector in the coming years, recognizing the significant employment potential of this rapidly expanding field. This target complements the Next Gen RESCO Programme and other initiatives aimed at bridging the energy access gap and driving economic development. The focus on job creation in the renewable energy sector not only addresses the immediate need for skilled professionals but also contributes to long-term economic growth and sustainability. By investing in renewable energy and developing a skilled workforce, Nigeria can unlock the significant economic potential of this sector and create a brighter future for its citizens.
