The Schneider Electric Foundation has donated industry-specific training equipment to three Lagos State technical colleges as part of its commitment to strengthening vocational education and preparing young people for careers in the energy sector.
Through the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board (LASTVEB), Government Technical College Agidingbi, Government Technical College Ikotun, and Government Technical College Ikorodu each received customised didactic benches. The equipment includes domestic wiring and industrial motor starter benches designed to expose students to real-world technologies used across the energy and industrial landscape.
The initiative is part of Schneider Electric’s global ambition to train one million youths by 2025, with a strong focus on equipping young people in West Africa with technical skills that align with international industry standards.
Executive Secretary of LASTVEB, Moronke Azeez, commended the foundation for its support, noting that the gesture extended beyond equipment donation.
“Not only did they assist in providing equipment, but they also conducted two weeks of intensive training for 17 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,” Azeez said.
Schneider Electric Foundation Delegate for West Africa, Funmilayo Olakitan, explained that the project aims to bridge the gap between theory and practice in technical education.
“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,” Olakitan stated.
The donated equipment will support training for students from year one to year three, particularly in electrical and engineering studies, while also benefiting disciplines such as mechanical and industrial automation. To ensure sustainability, Schneider Electric engineers also delivered a week-long “train-the-trainer” programme for instructors, with plans for refresher courses when necessary.
With this intervention, Schneider Electric says it is reaffirming its long-term commitment to vocational training and youth empowerment across Africa.