By Balogun Arisekola Azeez

The Mustafa Olawuyi Foundation (MOF) has launched an 8-week Solar Installation Training Programme to empower youth with renewable energy skills for sustainable development in Nigeria.

The training, in partnership with Basic Hi-Tech, will provide participants with skills in solar installation, system design, safety, maintenance, troubleshooting, and entrepreneurship.

“We must not continue to be mere consumers of modern technology; our youth must understand it, install it, maintain it, and ultimately contribute to its local production and improvement,” stated Engr. Mustafa Olawuyi, the Foundation’s founder.

“This programme is not just about fixing solar panels; it’s about preparing you for a future that can support your family and make you a valuable member of your community,” Engr. Olawuyi added, urging participants to stay focused and committed to their training.

Engr. Olawuyi emphasized that truthfulness in business is non-negotiable, stressing that integrity in transactions is essential for building lasting trust with customers.

Dr. Oladimeji Enoch of Osun State University spoke on the importance of solar energy in Nigeria’s development, saying, “Energy drives development, and reliable electricity is vital for businesses, schools, and healthcare systems.”

“Solar energy is not just an alternative; for Nigeria, it is increasingly a necessity,” Dr. Enoch noted, highlighting Nigeria’s abundant sunlight as a significant advantage for harnessing solar power.

Alhaji Lateef Arowolo discussed the role of financial literacy in business success, stating, “A good skill opens doors, but financial literacy keeps you inside. If you cannot manage income, expenses, and reinvestments, your business will struggle.”

“Interest-free loans can play a major role in helping small business owners grow without being crushed by repayment pressure,” Alhaji Arowolo added, advocating for ethical financial systems that support small businesses.

Engr. Abdul Akeem Olawuyi, Chairman of MOF, reiterated the Foundation’s commitment to youth empowerment and sustainable development: “This training speaks directly to youth empowerment, clean energy, and economic opportunity.”

“MOF is committed to providing more than just classroom education,” Engr. Abdul Akeem Olawuyi said, outlining the Foundation’s plan to include mentoring, hands-on training, and real-life applications for participants.

Engr. Abdulazeez Awotunde, a technical expert, emphasized the importance of safety in solar installations: “Safety comes first—before speed, before confidence. The best technician is the one who works safely and correctl

y, not the fastest one.”