FG, Omatek May Partner On Solar Energy in Schools

Omatek Computers

The Federal Government is enthusiastic about introducing solar system of lightings into the Nigerian educational institutions across the country to reduce the high expenses on the production of alternative power generation in the sector.

And the government is already working towards starting this project in the newly established federal universities across the country. Under the new initiative, government plans to encourage the deployment of 24-hour solar lighting systems in the educational sector.

Minister of Education, Professor Ruqayyatu Rufa'i, disclosed this when she inaugurated the solar lighting system deployed by the University of Lagos through Omatek Ventures Plc, the only computer firm listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE).

The introduction of solar lighting systems, according to her, is aimed at reducing the heavy reliant on producing alternative power supply to the institutions via the use of generators that is capable of consuming the larger percentage of universities' budgets.

She added that it will also complement e-learning initiatives in the institutions.

The minister, who was visibly impressed by the new development at University of Lagos, said she would immediately begin the process of replicating the innovation in the institutions to enhance the standard of living of the new university communities.

Speaking on the development, Group Managing Director of Omatek Ventures, Mrs. Florence Seriki, said solar light improved literacy, because people can read after dark more easily than they can by candle or lamp light.

"School work improves and eye sight is safeguarded when students study by solar powered light. With the advent of television and radio, people previously cut off from electronic information, education and entertainment can become part of the modern world without leaving home," she said.

Seriki disclosed that with the deployment of solar system at the University of Lagos, power consumption would be reduced significantly by 85 per cent because a 60-watts bulb can now be easily replaced by a seven watts solar bulb.

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Rahman Bello, disclosed that the university spends minimum of N45 million to generate alternative power for the university community on monthly basis.

Bello expressed excitement over the solar lighting. According to him, while diesel generators require periodic maintenance and have a short lifespan, the solar system requires no fuel, and will last for several years with minimal servicing.

Use of solar electric systems also decreases the amount of local air pollution. With a decrease in the amount of kerosene used for lighting, there is a corresponding reduction in the amount of local pollution produced. Solar rural electrification also decreases the amount of electricity needed from small diesel generators.