LASG plans clean energy innovation challenge for secondary schools

Consultations have begun between the Lagos State Government and education, energy and development stakeholders on a proposed innovation challenge aimed at exposing secondary school students to clean energy technologies and sustainability solutions.

The initiative, known as the Lagos Cleaner Energy Schools Innovation Challenge 2026, is being developed by the Lagos State Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources as a pilot programme to promote innovation, environmental awareness and interest in the green economy among young people.

At a stakeholders’ meeting held over the weekend in Alausa, Ikeja, the Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Biodun Ogunleye, said the programme was designed to identify and nurture future talent in clean energy and environmental sustainability.

He said the challenge would provide a platform for students to develop innovative ideas while gaining exposure to emerging opportunities in the energy sector.

Ogunleye stressed that the success of the initiative would depend on collaboration between government agencies, educational institutions, development partners and private sector organisations.

The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Ibilola Kasunmu, described the programme as an investment in the next generation of innovators.

She said the initiative would help equip students with critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving skills needed to support future energy and economic development goals.

Technical presentations at the meeting outlined plans for a six-week pilot programme that would allow participating students to work on practical projects focused on renewable energy, energy efficiency, waste-to-energy solutions and other sustainability-related innovations.

The presentations were delivered by Yetty Ogunnubi and Iyaniwura Ademola.

According to Ademola, students selected for the programme will receive mentorship and hands-on exposure to clean energy technologies and innovation processes.

Stakeholders at the meeting also discussed programme 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 forms part of broader efforts by the Lagos State Government to promote sustainable energy development and build local capacity for the transition to cleaner energy systems.