Benin

This initiative provides various levels of training opportunities for young African professionals in the renewable energy field, including practical hands-on experience. The school partners with global and domestic industry members, firms, and schools to offer thorough education.  

The trainings offered by the academy are:  

• Executive School: The RES4Africa Foundation’s flagship capacity-building initiative addressed to institutional and high-level professionals, managers and profiles operating in the RE sector in Africa.  

• Technical and Vocational School: The goal is to develop a knowledgeable and aware workforce in Africa to implement decentralized renewable energy solutions (micro and mini-grids) across the region, improving energy access in urban, peri-urban, and rural areas. This will also empower youth by supporting local businesses and creating jobs.  

• Re-skilling Lab: The Lab was created in South Africa to help replace coal plants with solar and wind power. RES4Africa is supporting this transition by offering a training program on these technologies for trainers and trainees.  

• Grid Development Lab  

Read more: RES4Africa Academy - Res4Africa  

CFPP-IRETI N’LA in Benin is a school that aims to help young people transition into the workforce. It provides both theoretical and practical classes, internships, officially recognized diplomas, and a special emphasis on solar power. The organization worked together with PUM to create a strategic outline and offer resources for a solar energy training program.  

Read more:  Transformative vocational education in Benin - PUM  

The ISA Solar Fellowship for Mid-Career Professionals is aimed at assisting professionals in the solar energy sector from ISA member countries. The following are the main requirements for eligibility:  

• Country of origin: Candidates must hold citizenship in countries that are members of ISA.  

• Age: The age restriction for individuals from Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs) is 45 years. The age restriction for individuals from different nations is 40 years.  

• Academic Credentials: Candidates must possess a 4-year Bachelor’s degree (or its equivalent) in disciplines such as Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Electronics and Instrumentation Engineering, Energy Engineering, Engineering Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or Power Engineering. Or, a Master’s Degree in Physics, Electronics, or Applied Physics with a minimum CGPA of 6.00 on a scale of 10 or at least 60% marks in total.  

• Employment History: A minimum of three years of professional experience in the appropriate industry is mandatory.  

• Dedication to serving the public: The fellowship is designed for government officials such as policymakers and planners, helping to enhance their leadership skills and dedication to serving the public.  

The fellowship's goal is to enhance the group of competent professionals in their respective countries for solar projects, advocating for sustainable energy practices and aiding in policy creation.  

Read more: International Solar Alliance (isa.int)