The Schneider Electric Foundation, Schneider Electric and international NGO, Enactus are entering the second year of their successful partnership which sees the organisations promoting entrepreneurial focus and project-based learning amongst the youth in Anglophone Africa. 

Building on a very successful 2024, the Schneider Electric Foundation, Schneider Electric and Enactus will again drive three key initiatives in Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa: the Enactus Core Programme, the Battery Innovation Challenge, and the Mentorship Programme. Also, in Zimbabwe the Battery Innovation Challenge will be rolled out again this year, with over 4,000 youth to be impacted. 

“Our partnership with the Schneider Electric Foundation and Schneider Electric continues to be such a meaningful and impactful undertaking.  Last year has undoubtedly highlighted the value of nurturing youth leaders through comprehensive, project-based training and mentorship programmes,” comments Letitia de Wet, CEO & Country Director of Enactus South Africa.

“It has been a privilege and a pleasure to work with a professional NGO like Enactus, we look forward to the second year of this truly meaningful collaboration which is making tangible difference to the youth in Anglophone Africa,” says Carina van Zyl, Corporate Citizenship Leader for Anglophone Africa at Schneider Electric.

The Enactus Core Programme, launched in February 2025, provides university student teams with a structured framework to address social issues through entrepreneurial solutions. Supported by Schneider Electric Foundation’s New Skills for the Future and Innovation programme, the initiative engages Schneider Electric employees as mentors and competition judges. 

The Core Programme culminates in the Enactus National Expositions with each winning team representing their respective countries at the Enactus World Cup, to be held this year in Bangkok, Thailand. Last year’s winning Enactus teams from the University of the Western Cape (South Africa), Kabarak University (Kenya) and Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University (Nigeria) participated in the World Cup in Astana, Kazakhstan

The Battery Innovation Challenge, conceptualised by Schneider Electric South Africa and in line with energy transition goals, challenges students in Kenya, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Nigeria to develop battery models as innovative energy solutions. Over six months, participants receive training and build their battery prototypes, culminating in a competition to present their designs.

The Mentorship Programme targets university student leaders in Kenya, South Africa, and Nigeria. Over six months, 75 students will receive mentorship from Schneider Electric employees to develop leadership and management skills, bridging the gap between the tertiary education sector and industry.

As the partnership enters its second year, Schneider Electric and Enactus continue to invest in the next generation of leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators, ensuring a lasting impact on communities and youth across Anglophone Africa.