Initiative shining a light on equipping youth with essential energy skills

The Youth in Energy Empowerment Program (YEEP) has been making strides in a pivotal effort to bridge the gap between academic training and real-world experience in the energy sector.

An innovative internship programme, run under Eenovators Limited, aims to equip young individuals aged 21-30 with essential energy skills and experience, positioning them for careers and entrepreneurship in the energy sector.

Linda Manyala, Secretary of World Energy Day, emphasized the programme’s importance during the official launch of the World Energy Day 2024 initiative in Mlolongo on August 13, 2024.

She pointed out that employability remains a significant challenge across Africa, including Kenya, with many graduates possessing academic knowledge but missing practical experience.

“The YEEP programme is specifically designed to address this issue, by partnering with industry leaders; we provide valuable internships and hands-on training,” Linda said.

Launched in 2021 with support from GIZ’s Water Energy for Food initiative, the programme began with ten interns from Kenya, who successfully identified energy savings of up to 43.9 per cent in agricultural settings.

Following this success, they expanded in 2022 to include 35 interns from Kenya and Uganda, who also made impactful contributions.

Linda further noted that this year’s third cohort includes 77 participants from Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. After four months of theoretical training, these interns are now preparing for their exams and will soon transition to industry placements.

“Their work will focus on implementing energy efficiency measures to reduce consumption, lower power bills, and decrease carbon footprints,” she added.

Praising the ongoing impact of the YEEP programme, Linda described it as a beacon of progress in energy education and sustainability.

“By bridging the gap between academic knowledge and practical application, we are enhancing career prospects for young graduates and contributing to the development of more sustainable energy solutions.”

Karen Thuranira, Programme Coordinator for World Energy Day, highlighted the programme’s comprehensive approach.

“Our commitment to fostering the next generation of energy professionals is reflected in YEEP’s robust framework, by combining technical training with essential soft skills, we ensure that our participants are not only well-equipped to lead in the energy sector but are also prepared to drive innovation and change,” Thuranira said

Thuranira also emphasized that the YEEP programme aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to affordable and clean energy.

“Our curriculum includes training in renewable energy technologies, such as solar photovoltaic systems, and strategies for reducing carbon footprints. Additionally, the programme places a strong emphasis on soft skills like communication, resume writing, and interview preparation to enhance employability.”

Thuranira noted that demonstrating a commitment to sustainability, the YEEP programme’s operations are powered by renewable energy and the curriculum integrates the latest green technologies.

Linda highlighted that Eenovators Limited recognised the need to build capacity among young people through training, mentorship, and internships.

“Despite the high volume of job applications from graduates in engineering and energy programs, the industry often struggles to accommodate them due to a preference for more experienced candidates,” she said.

The YEEP was launched in June 2020 to address this gap and provide the necessary skills and experience for employment and entrepreneurship in the energy sector.