Schneider Electric has launched the Advancing Energy Tech mentorship programme in Nigeria, Kenya and South Africa to equip electrical engineering students with practical skills and improve their readiness for careers in the energy and technology sectors.
In Nigeria, the programme is being implemented at the University of Ibadan (UI) and Yaba College of Technology (Yabatech), where participating students will be matched with Schneider Electric engineers for six months of one-on-one mentorship.
The initiative comes amid concerns over the gap between university education and the practical skills required by employers, particularly as many young graduates continue to face difficulties securing jobs that match their qualifications.
Data from the State of the Nigerian Youth Report 2025 puts youth unemployment in Nigeria at 53 per cent, highlighting the need for stronger pathways that connect education with employment opportunities.
Funmilayo Olakitan, Access to Education Program Coordinator, West Africa, Schneider Electric, said the programme was designed to strengthen the connection 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 is delivered through VolunteerIn, the Schneider Electric Foundation’s global platform for employee-led giving and skills-based volunteering.
Participating institutions nominate students, who are then paired with mentors based on their interests and career aspirations. The mentors, who are practising Schneider Electric engineers, provide practical insights into engineering careers, workplace expectations and professional development.
Following an initial group kick-off, students participate in a structured six-month mentorship programme covering engineering standards, compliance, teamwork, workplace conduct and career planning.
Participants are also guided on identifying potential employers, developing relevant skills, building professional networks, improving their CVs and strengthening their personal brands.
Students who have participated in the programme reported improvements in their communication skills, professional profiles and understanding of real-world engineering environments.
Schneider Electric said the initiative is part of its wider commitment to developing work-ready talent and supporting young people as they transition from education into employment.
The company expects the programme to help create a stronger pipeline of skilled engineers capable of contributing to Africa’s growing energy and technology sectors.
