14 young professionals and aspiring renewable energy practitioners from Kenya participated in the 42nd edition of the Technical and Vocational School (formerly Micro-Grid Academy), focusing on Module 3 – DRE System Design, Operation & Maintenance, and Safety. The training, held in Nairobi, Kenya, from September 15th to 19th, 2025, is an initiative promoted by RES4Africa in collaboration with Strathmore University and sustained by Enel Foundation.
Hosted at Strathmore University and implemented in collaboration with Strathmore Energy Research Centre (SERC), the program offered participants a hands-on learning experience in designing and operating decentralized renewable energy (DRE) systems. The curriculum covered system design with software tools, operation & maintenance of micro-grids, and safety, health, and environmental practices.

Practical exercises enriched the training experience. In particular, participants had the opportunity to take part in a practical activity on solar PV cleaning, facilitated with the involvement of Raynow Energy, which provided hands-on exposure to one of the key aspects of solar plant operation and efficiency. Trainers from partner institutes shared insights on real-life applications, best practices, and technical challenges, strengthening the link between theory and practice.
The course placed a strong emphasis on inclusion and empowerment, encouraging the active participation of youth and women and fostering peer learning in a multicultural setting. Interactive lectures and expert-led discussions equipped attendees with essential skills to contribute meaningfully to the energy transition across East Africa.
The success of this edition was made possible through the collaboration of key partners and their shared commitment to nurturing a new generation of energy leaders ready to drive sustainable development across the region.
The article was first published here.