IWD 2024: How Schneider Electric Is Empowering Women In Nigeria

Hugo van Dijk

4 min read

Post on Apr 30, 2025

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Investing in Women's Education and Skills Development in Nigeria

Schneider Electric's commitment to bridging the gender gap begins with education. We believe that providing access to quality education and skills development is crucial for empowering women in Nigeria. Our initiatives focus on women's education in Nigeria and providing access to skills development programs in Nigeria, particularly in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, where women are often underrepresented.

• Scholarships: We've awarded over 50 scholarships to Nigerian women pursuing STEM degrees at reputable universities across the country. These scholarships cover tuition fees, accommodation, and other educational expenses.
• Apprenticeship Programs: We've partnered with leading vocational schools to offer apprenticeships in electrical engineering and software development, providing hands-on training and valuable industry experience to young women.
• Partnerships with Educational Institutions: Schneider Electric actively collaborates with Nigerian universities and polytechnics, providing resources, mentorship, and industry insights to enhance STEM education for women. These partnerships include the University of Lagos, Ahmadu Bello University, and the Federal University of Technology, Owerri.
• Success Stories: Many women who have benefited from our programs have gone on to secure successful careers in their chosen fields, becoming leaders in their industries and inspiring others. One such success story is Adaobi, who, after completing our apprenticeship program, now leads a team of engineers on a major renewable energy project.

Promoting Women's Leadership and Advancement within Schneider Electric Nigeria

Schneider Electric is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where women have equal opportunities for advancement. We are actively working to increase women in leadership in Nigeria and promote gender equality in the workplace in Nigeria.

• Leadership Representation: We aim to increase the percentage of women in leadership roles at Schneider Electric Nigeria to 40% by 2025, currently standing at 32%.
• Mentorship and Sponsorship Programs: We have established robust mentorship and sponsorship programs that pair experienced female leaders with high-potential women, providing guidance, support, and advocacy.
• Leadership Training: We provide targeted leadership training programs designed to equip women with the skills and confidence to excel in leadership positions. This includes workshops on negotiation, strategic thinking, and effective communication.
• Gender Equality Policies: Schneider Electric Nigeria has implemented comprehensive policies that promote gender equality, including equal pay for equal work, flexible work arrangements, and robust parental leave policies.

Supporting Women-Owned Businesses and Entrepreneurship in Nigeria

Empowering women extends beyond our internal initiatives. We recognize the vital role of women entrepreneurs in driving economic growth in Nigeria. Therefore, we are actively supporting women entrepreneurs in Nigeria and contributing to the growth of women-owned businesses.

• Partnerships: We collaborate with organizations like the Nigerian Women's Chamber of Commerce and Industry to provide resources and support to women-led businesses.
• Access to Finance and Resources: We offer financial assistance, business development training, and access to our global network to help women entrepreneurs scale their businesses.
• Mentorship and Networking: We provide mentorship and networking opportunities to connect women entrepreneurs with potential investors and collaborators.
• Success Stories: Our support has enabled numerous women-owned businesses to thrive, creating jobs and contributing significantly to Nigeria's economy.

Community Engagement and Social Impact in Empowering Women in Nigeria

Schneider Electric’s commitment to corporate social responsibility in Nigeria and community development in Nigeria plays a crucial role in indirectly empowering women. Our projects often have a positive ripple effect, benefiting women within the communities we serve.

• Access to Energy: Our initiatives focused on providing access to reliable and affordable energy in rural communities empower women by improving their living conditions, enabling them to participate more fully in economic activities, and reducing their workload.
• Sustainable Development Projects: Our engagement in sustainable development projects, such as promoting clean water initiatives and supporting agricultural practices, significantly benefits women, who often bear the brunt of environmental challenges.

Conclusion

This International Women's Day, Schneider Electric's commitment to empowering women in Nigeria stands as a testament to the power of corporate social responsibility and inclusive growth. Through various initiatives focused on education, leadership development, and business support, Schneider Electric is actively contributing to a more equitable and prosperous future for Nigerian women. By investing in women, Schneider Electric invests in the future of Nigeria. Join us in celebrating the achievements of women and learn more about how Schneider Electric is actively working to empower women in Nigeria. Let's continue to champion initiatives that empower women in Nigeria and foster a more inclusive society.