Asteven Energy Institute Matriculates 17 for Epochal National Diploma in Solar Technology

In the unfolding saga of Nigeria’s clean energy transformation, the Asteven Energy Institute (AEI) has marked a momentous milestone. On August 8, 2025, at its Asese campus in Ogun State, the Institute conducted its inaugural matriculation ceremony for 17 pioneer students, ushering them into Nigeria’s first-ever National Diploma in Solar Technology and Management.

This landmark event, the first of its kind approved by both the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and the Federal Ministry of Education, has positioned AEI as a trailblazer in renewable energy education across West Africa.

Dr. Sunny Akpoyibo, President and Founder of Asteven Group, delivered a compelling keynote, reflecting on the Institute’s journey. “To see this dream come true with a generation that will transform Nigeria’s energy revolution is deeply fulfilling,” he said, acknowledging the urgent skills gap: despite billions of dollars flowing into energy access projects——such as $550 million and $750 million investments—Nigeria still lacks a skilled domestic workforce to execute them.

He lamented that, unlike countries like Germany and the UK, Nigeria had no certified framework for solar professionals. Asteven Energy Institute, stated Dr Akpoyibo, was established precisely to fill that void: to train, certify, and empower local talent in solar energy.

Developing the curriculum took two and a half years, with huge attendant costs through validation visits to various institutions across the world, including Strathmore University, Kenya and the German Energy Institute. Impressively, it has already been adopted internationally—in India—underscoring its global relevance.

The Institute’s journey began in 2018 with short vocational training. Since then, it has trained over 3,000 individuals in solar technology across campuses in Lagos, Abuja, and Warri. Prof. Magnus Onuoha, Rector of the Institute, described the matriculation as a milestone, as the Institute is moving beyond certificates to formally shaping Nigeria’s renewable energy manpower.

“With this programme, we are producing graduates for the renewable energy workforce. Our vision is clear—raise a generation of green professionals who are globally competitive,” Onuoha declared.

Adding to the conversation, Prof. Dr. Segun Adaju, Director of Programs at AEI and former President of the Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria, highlighted a critical challenge: Nigeria’s solar projects are often implemented by expatriates despite the availability of local talent. He called this unacceptable and stressed the need to train Nigerians to take ownership of the renewable energy sector.

This diploma offering comes at a pivotal time. As Nigeria reckons with energy poverty and grid instability, renewable energy—and solar, in particular—offers a sustainable alternative. Yet, the proliferation of off-grid projects financed through billions in international grants frequently relies on foreign contractors. By training certified professionals, ASTEVEN is ensuring that local talent can seize these opportunities, improving job access and ensuring Nigeria keeps the economic value generated from these mega-projects.

Dr. Akpoyibo called the Institute’s work “bigger than a certificate,” describing its graduates as torchbearers. ” Today, you are being equipped not only with credentials, but with the capability to design, implement, and manage clean energy solutions across communities.

“You are the future of the 2050 net-zero goals we talk about. The time will come when you won’t be looking for jobs—the jobs will look for you,”  Akpoyibo told the students

He also stressed that Asteven operates entirely off solar power and has never been connected to the national grid—a practical embodiment of its mission..

Prior to the diploma launch, AEI had graduated 23 solar PV installers through a short COREN-accredited course, with graduates proceeding to certification under Nigeria’s Clean Energy Certification Scheme. This continuum from certification to diploma ensures both job-ready skills and academic standing.

The success of this inaugural cohort will shape Asteven’s strategy—and potentially influence national energy training policies. With a curriculum that’s globally recognized and designed for local needs, Asteven is well-positioned to scale up training, attract government partnerships, and contribute to national energy goals.

Indeed, with Nigeria’s “Decade of Gas” policy focusing on gas, Asteven’s solar initiative opens a complementary front in renewables—one that empowers communities, diversifies the energy mix, and strengthens energy resilience.

Asteven Energy Institute’s first matriculation ceremony is more than a ceremonial event. It represents a breakthrough in bridging the renewable energy skills gap in Nigeria. By launching the country’s first NBTE-approved National Diploma in Solar Technology and Management, the Institute is transforming education and energy practice. With support from visionary support the 17 pioneering students have become catalysts for Nigeria’s future as a clean energy powerhouse.