Lagos State Unveils Clean Energy Contest for Secondary Schools

The Lagos State Government has initiated discussions with stakeholders in the education, energy, and development sectors to launch an innovation challenge focused on introducing secondary school students to clean energy technologies and sustainable solutions. This initiative, dubbed the Lagos Cleaner Energy Schools Innovation Challenge 2026, is a brainchild of the Lagos State Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, designed as a pilot program to foster innovation, environmental awareness, and interest in the green economy among young people. At a recent stakeholders' meeting in Alausa, Ikeja, Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Biodun Ogunleye, emphasized that the program aims to identify and nurture future talent in clean energy and environmental sustainability. He stated that the challenge would provide a platform for students to develop innovative ideas while gaining exposure to emerging opportunities in the energy sector. Ogunleye stressed the importance of collaboration between government agencies, educational institutions, development partners, and private sector organizations in ensuring the success of the initiative. The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Ibilola Kasunmu, described the program as an investment in the next generation of innovators, equipping students with critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills necessary for future energy and economic development goals. Technical presentations at the meeting outlined plans for a six-week pilot program, allowing participating students to work on practical projects focused on renewable energy, energy efficiency, waste-to-energy solutions, and other sustainability-related innovations. Presenters Yetty Ogunnubi and Iyaniwura Ademola delivered the technical presentations. According to Ademola, students selected for the program will receive mentorship and hands-on exposure to clean energy technologies and innovation processes. Stakeholders at the meeting discussed program design, mentorship opportunities, participation criteria, project assessment standards, and partnership arrangements. Participants endorsed the initiative and pledged support for its implementation, describing it as a timely effort to prepare young people for opportunities in the rapidly expanding green economy. The proposed challenge is part of the Lagos State Government's broader efforts to promote sustainable energy development and build local capacity for the transition to cleaner energy systems.