Ministry of Science and BTVE Join Forces to Promote Sustainable Energy
Tracy Ohovwore, Benin City
The Edo State Ministry of Science and Technology has announced a strategic collaboration with the Board for Technical and Vocational Education (BTVE) to build capacity among technical teachers and students in renewable energy technologies.
According to Ukpebor Jonathan JP, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Science and Technology, the initiative, which aims to promote indigenous technology and local content, underscores the State Government’s commitment to fostering innovation, sustainability, and economic self-reliance among technical teachers and students in Edo State.
Ukpebor emphasised that with the growing global demands for clean and reliable power supply, solar devices have become highly sought after, creating a favorable market for both innovators and manufacturers.
He stressed the need for developing local manufacturing capacity for solar products, noting that it is critical for the nation’s economic sustainability, especially amid discussions on potential ban on solar products.
Ukpebor explained that nurturing young talent in the assembly and production of renewable energy technologies would not only yield economic benefits but also empower the youth to become self-reliant entrepreneurs.
The project aims to promote indigenous technology, develop the technical teaching capacity for sustainability, and enhance entrepreneurship and employability among technical students.
According to the details revealed by the Head of the Renewable and Conventional Energy Department, Engr. Esohe Asemota-Osagie, the programme would be piloted at the Benin Technical College before being extended to other institutions.
Asemota-Osagie noted that the project is set to enhance technical education within the State while supporting the growth of local manufacturing by transforming technical schools into mini-production hubs.
In addition, the Board (BTVE) Secretary, Mrs. Stella Ogbeide, expressed appreciation for the initiative and the collaborative efforts between the Ministry and BTVE.
She reiterated the Board’s commitment to empowering technical educators and students with innovative technology, highlighting the Board’s role in ensuring the project’s success.
The discussions also covered potential funding avenues and the importance of securing technical partners to align with the State Government’s vision.
