Critically discuss the differences and similarities that can be identified based on affordable and clean energy as an external determinant of education systems

in South Africa, Nigeria, and India, with references not longer than ten years, havard style

Affordable and clean energy is a crucial external determinant that can significantly impact education systems in countries such as South Africa, Nigeria, and India. The availability of affordable and clean energy can directly affect educational outcomes by influencing factors such as infrastructure, technology access, and overall learning environments. This discussion will critically analyze the differences and similarities in how these three countries are addressing the issue of affordable and clean energy in relation to their education systems.

In South Africa, the government has made efforts to increase access to clean energy through initiatives such as the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Program. This program aims to reduce the country's reliance on fossil fuels and increase the use of renewable energy sources. However, there are still challenges in ensuring that affordable and clean energy reaches all areas of the country, particularly in remote and disadvantaged communities. This lack of energy access can negatively impact educational outcomes by limiting access to technology and reliable power sources in schools.

In Nigeria, the government has also taken steps to promote clean energy through initiatives such as the Rural Electrification Agency, which aims to increase access to electricity in rural areas. However, like South Africa, there are still challenges in ensuring that affordable and clean energy reaches all parts of the country. This lack of energy access can hinder educational outcomes by limiting access to educational resources and technologies that require electricity to function.

In India, the government has made significant strides in promoting clean energy through initiatives such as the National Solar Mission. This program aims to increase the use of solar energy across the country and has helped to improve energy access in many areas. However, there are still challenges in ensuring that affordable and clean energy reaches all parts of the country, particularly in rural and remote areas. This lack of energy access can have a negative impact on educational outcomes by limiting access to technology and power sources in schools.

Overall, while South Africa, Nigeria, and India have made progress in promoting affordable and clean energy, there are still challenges that need to be addressed to ensure that all areas have access to reliable power sources. Improving energy access in these countries is crucial for enhancing educational outcomes and creating an environment that supports student learning. Policymakers in these countries should continue to prioritize the promotion of affordable and clean energy as a means of improving educational outcomes and creating a more sustainable future for their populations.

References:
- Department of Energy, Republic of South Africa. (2012). Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme. Retrieved from https://www.energy.gov.za/files/Energy/DoE_Section26_Summary_REVISED.pdf
- Rural Electrification Agency, Nigeria. (2017). About Us. Retrieved from https://www.rea.gov.ng/about/
- Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India. (2017). National Solar Mission. Retrieved from https://mnre.gov.in/file-manager/UserFiles/mnre-tender/NSM3Phase03012018.pdf.