Schneider Electric, the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, and Enactus, an international NGO dedicated to inspiring students to improve the world through entrepreneurial action, have rolled out three impactful initiatives across Anglophone Africa: Enactus Core Programme, Battery Innovation Challenge and Mentorship Programme.

Enactus, operating in 33 countries worldwide, provides a platform for university students to develop and implement community development projects for social impact. Aligned with the Schneider Electric Foundation's commitment to youth impact through learning, the collaboration between the organisations aim to empower youth, foster innovation, and drive positive change in local communities.

“The Schneider Electric and Enactus initiatives will not only drive social impact but also promote entrepreneurial focus and project-based learning among youth. With a two-year partnership and the potential to scale up in additional regions, the collaboration between Schneider Electric and Enactus demonstrates the organisations’ commitment to empowering youth and driving sustainable development”, says Carina van Zyl, Corporate Citizenship Leader for Anglophone Africa.

Says Letitia de Wet, CEO & Country Director of Enactus South Africa: “Enactus is truly excited to form part of this important partnership with Schneider Electric in South Africa, Nigeria and Kenya.  The three initiatives undoubtedly emphasise the importance of nurturing youth leaders through comprehensive training and mentorship programmes. Together, we are empowering the next generation, fostering a brighter, greener future for all."

Enactus Core Programme

The Enactus Core Programme, was launched in Anglophone Africa in February 2024 and will provide university student teams with a structured framework to identify social issues, create entrepreneurial solutions, and make a positive impact. 

The programme is supported by the Schneider Electric Foundation New Skills for the Future and Innovation programme and local Schneider Electric entities in Mexico, Guatemala, Egypt, Kenya, South Africa, and Nigeria.

The New Skills for the Future and Innovation programme aims to upskill and empower youth in energy transition by leveraging the company's resources to provide financial and technical support in view of 139 million new jobs in energy transition by 2030

Ultimately, the winning teams from the various countries will receive input from Schneider Electric employees to prepare and showcase their projects at the Enactus World Cup 2024 in Astana, Kazakhstan.

Battery Innovation Challenge

Also launched in February 2024, and conceptualised by South African Schneider Electric engineer Kamalan Chetty, the Battery Innovation Challenge aims to upskill and empower youth in energy transition. Students are challenged to develop battery models as the most efficient and innovative solutions to address energy challenges whilst positively impacting communities and the environment. 

The Battery Innovation Challenge also form part of the Schneider Electric Foundation’s New Skills for the Future and Innovation.  The challenge provides a training and project-based learning experience to students registered with Enactus in Kenya, South Africa, Zimbabwe and Nigeria.  

Over the course of six months, participating students will undergo training, project development, and implementation, culminating in a competition to showcase their designs and community impact.

The Challenge will essentially entail Schneider Electric employees engaging with the respective university teams as content experts, team mentors, and competition judges, providing volunteering opportunities.

Mentorship Programme

Schneider Electric Kenya, South Africa, and Nigeria have partnered with Enactus for a mentorship programme targeting university student leaders. Launched during the Giving Tuesday event for the respective countries, the mentorship program aims to empower at least 75 student leaders aged between 18-25 years in leadership and management skills.

Over six months, students will receive mentorship from Schneider Electric employees, including key leadership team members, to develop essential leadership and team management skills, bridging the gap between tertiary education and industry.