As Africa braces for an influx of energy projects, development authorities are faced with the task of ensuring that there are enough energy professionals on the continent to meet the growing demand of related skills for the successful implementation of these projects.
According to The World Bank Energy project portfolio, there
are currently 48 projects lined up totalling $3 billion, opening up opportunities
for jobs and demonstrating a clear need for related skills on the continent. While Africa still lacks the sufficient number of job-ready
workers and entrepreneurs capable of developing, installing, operating and
managing off-grid renewable solutions as well as talent adaptable to a
considerably dynamic sector, industry bodies around the content are doing their
bit to try and rectify the situation.
Taking on the skills
challenge
African Development Bank President Dr Akinwumi Adesina recently
introduced a programme aimed at creating 25 million jobs and upskilling 50
million youth over the next decade. Closer to home the Wits Business School (WBS), in
collaboration with the Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority
(CHIETA), introduced the Africa Energy Leadership Centre (AELC) which aims to
develop highly skilled and informed people to advance the energy space, thereby
supporting the economic growth of the continent as a whole. Additionally the Energy and Water Sector Education and
Training Authority (EWSETA), established in accordance with the Skills
Development Act 1998 – amended to confront the skills gap facing South Africa
and enhance and manage skill development and training requirements in the
country’s energy and water space.
Empowering women and
youth
“Building a competent energy workforce will create jobs of
extensive scope along with business opportunities in rural areas that are left
wanting for clean energy and economic growth,” notes Thembisa Bambathi, media liaison, Africa Energy Indaba. “Many of these jobs could advantageously be performed by
women and members of the expanding youth who bear the brunt of the effects of
energy poverty and broader economic exclusion.”
Africa Energy Indaba
The upcoming Africa Energy Indaba is again set to empower
today’s African youth by hosting its third African Youth Energy Innovator
Showcase in 2019, giving them the opportunity to be seen by industry experts
and energy decision makers. The contest is open to 18 to 35 year old individuals from
across Africa. Five winners have been chosen and will be able to showcase their
innovations both locally and internationally to increase publicity and
exposure; they will meet potential investors, key public and private sector
stakeholders as well as possibly attract funding for their winning
innovations. Under the theme Africa’s Energy Future, the 2019 Africa
Energy Indaba is set to take place from 19-20 February in Johannesburg.
