Ogun governor backs youth renewable energy training
Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun has pledged support for Asteven Energy Institute in building capacity for youth in the renewable energy sector.
Abiodun gave the pledge at the graduation ceremony of 23 students who received certification in the institute’s COREN Certified Solar Photovoltaic Installation (SPVI) training.
Abiodun emphasised that the world needs to recognise the activities happening at the Asteven Energy Institute.
He added that the state would implement a policy requiring only Asteven-certified technicians to install solar panels within Ogun.
“Government is an enabler. If your installation is not done by an Asteven-certified person, we cannot guarantee your safety,” said Abiodun.
He further explained that a model should be developed to make it easier for the average person to access solar panels.
He noted that the renewable energy market is vast and urged the institute to maintain high standards and precision in their training.
Dr Sunny Akpoyibo, Chairman of Asteven Institute, stated that green transition cannot be completed without training and certifying students in the renewable energy sector.
Akpoyibo thanked former President Muhammadu Buhari for signing the Paris Agreement, Article six, which supports renewable energy growth.
He added that Asteven Institute is committed to building the capacity of African youth to drive the continent’s energy transition.
Akpoyibo praised Ogun for being the first in Nigeria to promote renewable energy capacity.
Prof. Magnus Onoha, Rector of the Institute, urged graduates to build strong networks that would benefit them in the future.
Onoha revealed that the institute signed an MoU with Canada, enabling COREN-certified graduates to undertake a six-month advanced course there.
Mr Sam Nwosu, representing the Council for Renewable Energy, encouraged the graduates to create partnerships for their future success.
NAN reports that Asteven Energy Institute is the first Innovation Enterprise Institute in Solar Energy Technology approved by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).
With campuses in Ogun, Delta, Rivers, and Abuja, the institute offers top-tier training for aspiring solar industry technicians.
The COREN Certification in Solar Photovoltaic Installation (SPVI) is a comprehensive five-week programme, combining virtual and hands-on training.
It equips individuals with the skills to install, troubleshoot, and maintain photovoltaic systems, meeting Nigerian Competency Standards for clean energy.
The training concludes with a competency exam by COREN, with successful participants earning a certificate of competence.
