Akuse: The VRA Academy has launched a specialised two-week regional training programme on Clean Mini-Grid Design, Installation and Inspection aimed at accelerating rural electrification and bridging the energy access gap for millions of people across West Africa. The initiative seeks to build a highly skilled and certified workforce capable of deploying sustainable, decentralised solar energy systems throughout the ECOWAS sub-region.
According to Ghana Web, the Training of Trainers (ToT) programme, which opened at the VRA Academy in Akuse, has brought together 20 engineers and technical practitioners from across the Economic Community of West African States. The programme is being delivered through a partnership involving the ECOWAS Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency, which serves as the accreditation body, the Volta River Authority Academy, and Takoradi Technical University. Most of the participants are from The Gambia and Ho Technical University.
The curriculum covers the full range of competencies required for mini-grid deployment, including system design, installation, inspection, maintenance, and the pedagogical skills needed to enable participants to transfer their knowledge effectively in their home countries. Delivering the keynote address on behalf of VRA Deputy Chief Executive for Services Samuel Fletcher, officials described the programme as a strategic investment in the socio-economic future of the region. Fletcher noted that mini-grids offer practical solutions for rural communities where traditional grid extension is not economically viable, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and fostering climate resilience.
VRA Academy Chief Learning Officer Kingsley Gyamfi highlighted the initiative's rigorous accreditation process that began over a year ago. He emphasized the Training of Trainers approach, allowing the knowledge gained to extend far beyond the current cohort, as participants are expected to shape future energy practitioners.
VRA Director of Water Resources and Renewable Energy Abdul Noor Wahab explained that the programme addresses the challenge of electrifying remote communities located far from national grids. He stated that nearly 20 million people in the West African sub-region still lack access to electricity. The ToT model is designed to equip engineers with the skills to deploy mini-grid technology and share practical experience across Ghana and other participating countries.
Guei Guillaume Kouhie, speaking on behalf of ECREEE Executive Director Gibson Obasi, elaborated on the training's role within the West Africa Regional Energy Programme. This initiative, funded by the African Development Bank, aims to accelerate solar power generation and mini-grid deployment across ECOWAS member states. Kouhie underscored that the training in Akuse is pivotal for turning feasibility studies into operational systems.
As the training commences, organisers and participants are optimistic that the programme will bolster technical capacity and expedite the deployment of clean mini-grids across West Africa. This effort is expected to provide reliable electricity to essential services and businesses, paving the way for a more sustainable and fully electrified West Africa.