SCHNEIDER USES MENTORSHIP TO TRAIN YOUNG ENGINEERS

Schneider Electric has launched a six-month mentorship programme aimed at helping engineering students gain practical skills and prepare for the workplace.

The Advancing Energy Tech programme is being implemented in Nigeria, South Africa and Kenya, with electrical engineering students paired with experienced Schneider Electric engineers for one-on-one guidance.

In Nigeria, the programme is being run at the University of Ibadan and Yaba College of Technology, where students are receiving support on technical and professional development.

The initiative is designed to address the gap between what students learn in the classroom and the skills employers expect from graduates entering the engineering and energy sectors.

Participants are being exposed to practical workplace issues, including engineering standards, compliance, teamwork, professional conduct and industry expectations.

The programme also helps students understand the skills required by potential employers while improving their professional networks, personal brands, CVs and communication abilities.

According to Schneider Electric, participating institutions nominate students who are then matched with mentors based on their interests and career goals.

The programme operates under VolunteerIn, the Schneider Electric Foundation’s global platform for employee-led volunteering and skills development.

Funmilayo Olakitan, Schneider Electric’s Access to Education Programme Coordinator for West Africa, said connecting students with industry professionals would help strengthen the transition from education to employment.

She added that the energy sector would require skilled young engineers capable of contributing to a more sustainable and resilient future.

Students participating in the programme have also reported improvements in their understanding of professional engineering environments, communication and job readiness.

The company said the mentorship programme is part of its broader effort to support youth development and build future-ready engineering talent across Africa.