Q&A: Bridge the youth skills gap to energise Africa

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The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 spotlights Africa’s youthful population as a catalyst for change but warns of a pressing skills gap. This week, we spoke to solar engineer and trainer Ondora Mogere Dalton, who is equipping marginalised youth with clean energy skills through grassroots initiatives like Solar Mtaani.

• Dalton argues that though we need skilled solar workers, current rules favouring school degrees could block many capable young people with hands-on experience. Leaders should find a fair way, good rules that keep things safe but don't shut out eager youth. Letting people get certified based on what they've done could really help Africa's young workforce power the solar change.

• He emphasises that universities and colleges aren't always teaching what the solar industry actually needs. To fix this skills problem, these schools should work closely with solar companies. That way, young people learn the real-world skills that will help them get jobs and build Africa's solar power future.

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What is the most significant challenge hindering youth from fully contributing to Africa's renewable energy sector?

Ondora: The most pressing challenge is the skills gap, often exacerbated by the digital divide. Limited access to technology, particularly reliable internet, restricts young people's ability to engage with online training resources and stay abreast of rapidly evolving technologies crucial for the modern renewable energy landscape. This gap directly impacts their ability to contribute to energy access and innovation.

Beyond technical expertise, what essential skills are often lacking in young African professionals entering the renewable energy field?

Ondora: While technical aptitude may be present, many young technicians lack crucial soft skills such as networking and effective communication. I've observed that even technically skilled individuals struggle to promote themselves and secure opportunities without these vital interpersonal abilities.

How can Africa ensure its renewable energy training programs remain relevant amidst rapid technological advancements?

Ondora: Training programs must be dynamic and adaptable, incorporating current technology trends and undergoing regular curriculum reviews. There's a need to move beyond outdated methods and embrace future-oriented skills, including digital literacy and even the application of artificial intelligence in renewable energy solutions.

Are current policies and regulations effectively supporting the development of a skilled youth workforce in renewable energy?

Ondora: There are complexities. While licensing frameworks like EPRA's T2 and T3 are important for quality assurance, their stringent requirements based on formal education (diploma needing 2-4 years of experience, degree needing 1-2 years for T2/T3) can inadvertently exclude experienced and skilled youth who may lack traditional credentials. We need to explore pathways that recognise practical experience alongside formal education to avoid inconveniencing knowledgeable professionals.

What role should educational institutions play in cultivating the next generation of renewable energy experts in Africa?

Ondora: Educational institutions, particularly TVET centres, should prioritise practical, industry-aligned training. The policy shift towards dual training models – where students spend a significant portion of their time in industry settings (20% school, 80% industry) – is a positive step in bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. Currently, there's a disconnect between university learning and industry needs, highlighting the urgency for curriculum updates.

What are some effective strategies for bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical experience for young people in solar energy?

Ondora: We need to foster more hands-on learning opportunities, including internships, apprenticeships, and involvement in real-world solar projects. Initiatives like Solar Mtaani, which combine theoretical training with practical application for marginalised youth, are vital in equipping them with job-ready skills. Encouraging participation in networking events like expos and hackathons can also significantly boost their exposure and opportunities.

What are the real-world consequences of a poorly skilled workforce in the solar energy sector?

Ondora: Inadequate training directly translates to challenges in solar installations, with common errors like undersizing systems and mismatching components, particularly batteries. This not only leads to inefficient and unreliable systems but also undermines consumer confidence and hinders the widespread adoption of solar energy.

What opportunities exist for young Africans to contribute to addressing the continent's energy access challenges through renewable energy?

Ondora: The opportunities are vast, particularly in developing innovative solutions for energy access in vulnerable communities. With approximately 600 million people in Africa lacking clean and affordable energy, there's a critical need for skilled young professionals who can design, install, and maintain sustainable energy systems in these underserved areas.

What is one key misconception that needs to be addressed regarding skills in the renewable energy sector?

Ondora: A common misconception is that general electrical engineering automatically qualifies someone to install solar systems. Solar technology requires specialised training, and it's crucial to recognise this distinction to ensure safe and effective deployments.