Internship Description:
AFRICAVENIR has established a Wi-Fi network to provide internet access to students in primary and secondary schools as well as to low-income communities. To ensure energy independence and reduce operational costs, the organization plans to power each Wi-Fi hotspot using solar energy.
The intern will work alongside the local team to develop and implement an autonomous energy system by addressing the following aspects:
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System Components Design:
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Selection of solar panels tailored to the equipment’s energy needs.
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Choosing appropriate solar or alternative batteries.
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Inclusion of charge controllers, proper cabling, and voltage regulators.
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Use of inverters/converters for transforming DC to AC power.
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System Sizing:
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Calculating energy consumption of each device.
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Determining required energy autonomy levels.
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Selecting solar panels capable of generating excess energy, considering seasonal sunlight and rainfall patterns.
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Energy Requirement Calculations:
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Estimating total energy needs and storage requirements.
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System Schematics:
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Creating diagrams for each installation site to support future maintenance and scalability.
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Intern Profile – Required Skills and Qualities
To effectively contribute to the solar-powered Wi-Fi infrastructure project, the intern should demonstrate the following:
Technical Competencies:
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Understanding of different types of solar panels and their efficiency levels.
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Ability to perform accurate solar system sizing and design.
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Knowledge of power conversion systems (inverters, regulators).
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Basic electrical knowledge and safety standards.
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Practical skills in installing and mounting solar panels on appropriate structures.
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Experience with wiring and connecting electrical and network equipment.
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Troubleshooting and maintenance capabilities.
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Ability to balance cost-effectiveness and performance when selecting components.
Personal Attributes:
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Adaptability to field conditions and remote settings.
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Proactive mindset and attention to sustainability and community impact.
Internship Logistics
Duration: 8 weeks
Location: Lomé, Togo
Accommodation:
AFRICAVENIR does not cover accommodation costs, but offers assistance in securing affordable, fully furnished housing (with bed, furniture, refrigerator, internet, etc.) for approximately €100/month.
Meals:
Meals are provided. A cook and housekeeper (for laundry and cleaning) will be available to support the intern during the stay.
Start Date: From September 1st, 2025
Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
This project contributes to several UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially:
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SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy:
Promotes renewable energy access in rural and off-grid areas, reducing dependency on fossil fuels. -
SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure:
Facilitates the development of solar-powered digital infrastructure, promoting access to innovation and communication technologies. -
SDG 4 – Quality Education:
Enhances digital access for students through reliable solar-powered internet connections, enabling online learning and reducing the digital divide. -
SDG 13 – Climate Action:
Reduces CO₂ emissions and pollution by replacing traditional generators with solar energy systems. -
SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth:
Creates job opportunities in solar installation and maintenance, boosting local economic independence. -
SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production:
Encourages efficient and sustainable energy use, reducing waste and dependence on non-renewable resources.
The integration of solar energy into Wi-Fi infrastructure not only solves a technical challenge but also aligns with broader goals of environmental sustainability, digital inclusion, and community empowerment.
Organization Information
Name of Organization: AFRICAVENIR
Contact Person: Megan Stanislas Afan
Email: [email protected]
Organization Description – Mission:
AFRICAVENIR is a non-profit organization committed to improving the socio-economic and cultural living conditions of rural populations in Togo. Its work follows a holistic approach that integrates education, healthcare, environmental protection, and agriculture.
Vision:
To become a leading organization that empowers local communities by providing access to quality knowledge, healthcare, and sustainable environmental practices.
Core Values:
AFRICAVENIR is driven by strong ambition, rooted in respect and innovation, to build Africa based on educational values that foster independence and responsibility.