Acquisition of Alternative Renewable Energy Skills through TVET Programmes for Job Creation and Economic Development.

Abstract

Incessant power failure is a major challenge to the Nigeria economy as its electricity sector is majorly based on natural gas thermal power plants of which 85% of the grid-connected power plants are fossil fuel (gas) fired, while (15%) is of hydroelectric power plants. This is coupled with a degraded environment as a result of global warming due to constant use of non-renewable energy from fossil fuel. This paper examines how TVET programmes need to provide basic ARE employable skills for job creation and economy development. Two research questions were designed, formulated, and tested. The study employs a descriptive research method that involved 100 respondents, using a survey instrument that was analysed with inferential statistics of chi-square to accept or reject the hypotheses at 0.05 alpha level of significance. Findings revealed that skills needed for alternative energy can be provided for by TVET programmes in order to meet up with technological changes in the use of alternative renewable energy. The study recommended that youths and interested adults should be provided with free training skills and equipment on installation, repair and maintenance of alternative renewable energy products.