Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 5th May, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
In a bold stride toward a sustainable and inclusive future, the Ministry of Technology and Science has officially launched the Energy Skills for Youth (ES4Y) Project, a transformative initiative aimed at equipping young Zambians with cutting-edge skills in solar energy technology.
Officiated by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Eng. Dr. Brilliant Habeenzu, the launch marks a significant investment in Zambia’s human capital at a time when the country is aligning its national development goals with global climate and innovation agendas. Speaking at the event, Dr. Habeenzu emphasized that the project is a strategic response to the evolving demands of the green economy and a reaffirmation of government’s commitment to skills-driven development.
“The Energy Skills for Youth Project is more than a training initiative—it is a catalyst for economic participation, energy equity, and environmental stewardship,” Dr. Habeenzu stated. “It empowers our young people with practical, future-proof skills essential for Zambia’s digital and green transformation.”
The ES4Y project, being piloted at Luanshya Technical and Business College and Lusaka Vocational Training Centre, with oversight from TEVETA, is designed to train at least 500 young people in the installation and maintenance of solar photovoltaic systems. It aligns with Zambia’s 2020 TEVET Policy, which emphasizes industry-responsive, competence-based training, and the inclusion of youth, women, and persons with disabilities.
In addition to equipping learners with technical expertise, the project focuses on upgrading workshops, training materials, and instructor capacity to international standards. It also fosters strong partnerships with the private sector to enhance job placement, entrepreneurship, and economic integration.
The Energy Skills for Youth Project directly supports several national priorities, including the 8th National Development Plan, Vision 2030, and the National Energy Policy, which collectively promote renewable energy adoption, job creation, and industrialization. The initiative also advances global commitments under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).
A Presidential Vision Realized
At its core, the project echoes President Hakainde Hichilema’s vision of building a skills-based, energy-secure, and export-oriented economy. By targeting the energy sector—a key enabler of growth—while fostering inclusion and private sector engagement, ES4Y positions Zambia’s youth as active players in national and regional value chains.
As Zambia continues to invest in renewable energy and technical capacity, the Energy Skills for Youth Project stands as a blueprint for how skills development can power inclusive prosperity and climate resilience in the 21st century.
The Agency.