To better adapt education to meet the needs of the green economy, the Nigerian Federal Government has initiated a comprehensive overhaul of its renewable energy curriculum. This effort seeks to redefine how technical education prepares upcoming experts for the shift towards cleaner energy sources.
Under the leadership of the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), this initiative initiates a systematic restructuring of the National Diploma (ND) program focused on renewable energy. Additionally, it will introduce two new Higher National Diplomas: one specializing in Solar Photovoltaic (PV) technology and the other in Solar Thermal technology.
Supported by the INCLUDE Knowledge Platform, the African Studies Centre Leiden (ASCL), the Dutch government, and the House of Representatives along with the National Assembly, this review marks an important advancement in Nigeria’s energy transition and broader plans for employment creation.
creation and industrialization.
The government’s commitment to advancing renewable energy in Nigeria is highlighted by the significant emphasis placed on this sector by the 10th House of Representatives, chaired by their Speaker, Dr. Rt. Hon. Abass Tajudeen, PhD, GCON. In an unprecedented move, they created the Committee on Renewable Energy to lead policy initiatives, monitor advancements, and foster developments that draw investments and support sustainable use of renewable energy technologies within the country.
Honorable Victor Ogene, Chairperson of the Committee on Renewable Energy, highlighted that lately, the House of Representatives passed a resolution making it obligatory for all governmental bodies—including ministries, agencies, departments, and institutions—to shift towards renewable energy sources for their electricity requirements. This move underscores the critical necessity to address and close the skill shortages within this industry promptly.
During the opening ceremony at the Custodian Hotel in Abuja, Professor Idris M. Bugaje, who serves as the Executive Secretary of the NBTE, presented a grim overview of Nigeria’s electrical challenges. “The country currently provides fewer than 30 watts of electricity per person,” he stated, adding, “Moreover, more than half of all grid-supplied power is used solely by Lagos and Ogun states.” He emphasized, “To truly pursue industrial growth and wider accessibility, adopting decentralized solar solutions isn’t merely an option; it’s essential.”
Professor Bugaje highlighted that Nigeria’s abundant reserves of high-quality silica, notably found in Daura and Jigawa, offer a significant opportunity for domestic manufacturing of solar photovoltaic cells. However, he pointed out that realizing this potential would necessitate a workforce proficient in areas such as solid-state physics, hybrid energy systems, solar cooling technologies, and thermoelectric power generation.
The review will create National Occupational Standards (NOS) for solar installations, which are crucial for setting uniform training protocols across polytechnics and addressing unsafe procedures prevalent in the industry. “There have been numerous instances of rooftop solar systems malfunctioning because of improper angle settings,” cautioned Bugaje. “Such issues not only lead to inefficiency but also pose significant risks. This new curriculum aims to resolve these problems.”
Victoria Manya, the Knowledge Manager at ASCL-INclude, greeted the partnership and commended the participants for their dedication. “This goes beyond mere scholarly activity,” she stated. “It lays the groundwork for inclusive progress, equitable access to energy resources, and essential skill development relevant in our current era. We’re thrilled to back an initiative that places Nigerian youth right at the heart of the renewable energy sector.”
The curriculum workshops are being conducted in stages, beginning with an assessment of the ND program followed by a thorough development process for the two HND courses. Academicians, government officials, and representatives from the private sector are collaborating to make sure that the ultimate curriculum aligns with international benchmarks, meets industrial requirements, and accounts for Nigeria’s distinctive energy environment.
The NBTE has committed to keeping up partnerships to guarantee a contemporary, pragmatic, and forward-thinking curriculum—one that not only discusses energy transformation but also equips both the skills and intellect needed for its construction.
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