As part of its global commitment to youth education and entrepreneurship, the Schneider Electric Foundation has provided industry-specific training equipment in the energy field to three centres under the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board (LASTVEB) in Nigeria. The donation also forms part of an initiative from Schneider Electric in Nigeria to equip youth in West Africa with practical technical skills in the energy landscape that match global industry standards.

The three beneficiary institutions, the Government Technical College Agidingbi, Government Technical College Ikotun, and Government Technical College Ikorodu, have each received customised didactic benches which include domestic wiring and industrial motor starter benches. 

The donated equipment supports students in years one to three, particularly those focused on electrical and engineering studies. The didactic benches are also suitable for training across multiple engineering disciplines, including mechanical and industrial automation.

In Lagos, the project specifically aims to embed real-world experience into the school curriculum by introducing students to the same technology and tools used in industry today.  It aims to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in electrical and industrial engineering.

The LASTVEB equipment donation also forms part of Schneider Electric’s global ambition to train one million youths by 2025, helping to foster entrepreneurship and equip them for employment in today’s industrial landscape.

“We express our appreciation to the Schneider Electric Foundation for its support and commitment to technical education through its generous donation. Not only did they assist in providing equipment, but they also conducted two weeks intensive training for seventeen electrical instructors on domestic and industrial installations. 

“This collaboration has empowered our instructors, giving them the confidence and practical skills necessary to train students in industry-relevant competencies,” says Moronke Azeez, Executive Secretary at LASTVEB.

“The equipment provides students with technical expertise to put what they are taught in theory, to practice.  Our goal is to bring the industry into the classroom, and ensure students are better prepared for real-life challenges in the electrical and engineering sectors,” says Funmilayo Olakitan, Schneider Electric Foundation Delegate for West Africa.

Schneider Electric engineers have also recently conducted a week-long “train-the-trainer” session, ensuring that instructors across the three colleges are fully equipped to use the benches effectively. Ongoing refresher training will also be provided as needed.