A New Education fund launched to boost learner’s skills in Africa’s energy sector

Photo Credit: Eric Onyiego/USAID Kenya

NAIROBI, Kenya - Students across Africa studying oil, gas, and energy-related studies can now access financial boosts from the AEC African Energy Education Fund. The annual initiative will provide assistance to aspiring young individuals from across Africa, who are pursuing undergraduate studies.

At the moment, Africa is experiencing remarkable progress in the realms of gas and renewable energy. The industry promises to bring tremendous prospects for economic expansion and environmental sustainability.

NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC said: “When we empower the next generation of energy leaders, we empower Africa. We firmly believe that by equipping young individuals with knowledge and financial support, we are nurturing a brighter future for the energy industry in Africa.”

Expressing her thoughts on the Fund, Oneyka Cindy Ojogbo, an advisory board member of the Chamber and Fund manager, said, “The Energy Education Fund holds immense promise for both students and Africa as a whole. By dedicating resources to the education and professional growth of African students in the energy sector, we are cultivating a new generation of competent professionals who will play a vital role in propelling Africa’s energy transformation forward.”

The scholarship fund acknowledges the significance of seizing these opportunities and empowering the upcoming generation with the requisite expertise.

AEC African Energy Education Fund will be extending financial support and educational materials to gifted African students. Learners from South Africa to Egypt, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Namibia, and beyond pursuing energy-related disciplines will benefit In collaboration with select institutions, the Chamber will establish strategic partnerships, offering scholarships, grants, and mentorship to deserving students.

Learners within Africa and even those pursuing studies abroad will get scholarships. The scholarship seeks to empower the most promising talents in the energy sector. It will help to equip them to make significant contributions to Africa’s energy transition and project development sphere. The Chamber said it understands the significance of investing in the youth and fostering their active participation and outstanding achievements.

It seeks to advance Africa’s energy sector and promote a sustainable energy future in Africa. “The Chamber firmly believes that the younger generation holds a crucial role in shaping the industry and propelling its growth.” The AEC Energy Education Fund 2023 will honor and reward eight exceptional students, with a particular emphasis on encouraging female students to apply. To be eligible for this prestigious award, applicants must be under 35 years of age and currently enrolled in undergraduate or postgraduate studies in any field related to oil, gas, or energy.

The selection will primarily be based on academic excellence. It will ensure that the recipients have demonstrated exceptional performance in their academic pursuits. In addition to the distinguished honor and recognition associated with the AEC Energy Scholarship Award, the recipients will receive substantial financial support ranging from US$5,000 to US$10,000.

This funding is specifically designed to alleviate the financial burdens that often accompany higher education, enabling scholars to concentrate on their studies and professional growth within the energy sector. Moreover, the students will get a unique opportunity to participate in the youth forum at AEW 2023.

This event, held in Cape Town from 16-20 October 2023, stands as the largest gathering of energy stakeholders in Africa.

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