Schneider Electric Launches Energy Tech Mentorship For Nigerian Engineering Students

Schneider Electric, a global leader in energy technology, has launched the Advancing Energy Tech mentorship programme to equip electrical engineering students in Nigeria with the practical skills, professional exposure and industry knowledge required to transition successfully from the classroom into the energy and technology sectors.

The six-month initiative, part of the company’s global corporate volunteering and citizenship programme, VolunteerIn, is currently being implemented at the University of Ibadan and Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), Lagos. The programme pairs students with Schneider Electric engineers and other technical professionals who serve as mentors throughout the mentorship period.

Speaking on the initiative, Access to Education Coordinator for West Africa at Schneider Electric, Funmilayo Olakitan, said the programme was designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and workplace expectations.

“Students today are developing strong technical foundations, but there is often a gap between what they learn in an academic environment and what industries require when they enter the workforce,” Olakitan said.

“Through the Advancing Energy Tech mentorship programme, we want to provide students with access to experienced professionals who can guide them, answer career questions and help them create a roadmap towards their future goals.”

According to the company, participating institutions nominate students who are likely to benefit most from the initiative, after which Schneider Electric matches each participant with a mentor based on their academic interests and career aspirations.

Throughout the programme, students receive guidance on career planning, workplace expectations, CV writing, LinkedIn profile optimisation, interview preparation, professional networking and communication skills. They are also exposed to current engineering practices, industry tools and real-world applications of engineering principles while documenting their personal and professional development.

Olakitan noted that the mentorship programme is intended not only for top-performing students but also for those who require additional support in identifying their strengths and charting a clear career path.

“Talent takes many forms. Students may have the technical skills but need support to build confidence, understand industry expectations and see opportunities. Our goal is to help them recognise their strengths and prepare for the workplace,” she said.

She added that connecting students with experienced industry professionals would help strengthen the link between education and employment while preparing the next generation of engineers for the evolving energy sector.

“The future of energy depends on the skills and ideas of young engineers, and we want to support their journey,” she said.

Schneider Electric said the Advancing Energy Tech mentorship programme will run throughout 2026, with additional editions planned as part of its long-term commitment to youth development and engineering skills advancement across West Africa.