Namibia University of Science and Technology Embraces Renewable Energy Innovation with New Japanese Donation
This week marks a significant leap forward for the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST) as it unveiled its newest asset: a cutting-edge Advanced Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Trainer Suite, provided graciously by the Japanese government. This remarkable donation, worth approximately N0,000, is set to enhance the practical learning experience for students at the university’s Namibia Energy Institute (NEI).
“We’re thrilled to introduce this state-of-the-art trainer suite to our engineering students,” a university spokesperson noted. “Currently, it’s in high demand and actively being used for hands-on experiments in renewable energy generation and grid coupling.” This initiative aligns perfectly with the rising importance of green energy solutions in the face of climate change challenges.
Ambassador of Japan to Namibia, Shinichi Asazuma, emphasized the connection between innovation and capacity building. He remarked, “All projects supported by the Japanese government are aimed at directly benefiting the community through training while keeping sustainability at the forefront.” This commitment to shared growth reflects Japan’s dedication to fostering renewable energy technologies not just in Japan, but across the globe.
NUST’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Erold Naomba, further elaborated on the project’s significance for Namibia’s renewable energy future. He highlighted that this initiative forms part of a more extensive Japan-funded project executed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in collaboration with Namibia’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Land Reform. “Our collaboration with esteemed institutions like the Kafue Gorge Regional Training Centre in Zambia and Germany’s Institute for Decentralised Electrification, Entrepreneurship, and Education is crucial in building a solid foundation for technical and vocational education in the renewable energy sector,” he stated.
This project has already seen impressive results; more than 37 instructors from both public and private Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, as well as engineering lecturers from NUST and the University of Namibia, have participated in specialized training programs. Prof. Naomba pointed out that over N million has been invested so far in both training and laboratory infrastructure, with plans underway to establish a central green energy laboratory serving educational institutions nationwide.
NUST expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Japan, UNDP, and all project partners for their unwavering support in nurturing Namibia’s technical capacity for a sustainable energy transition. As the world shifts towards renewable energy, initiatives like this are steadfastly positioning Namibia at the forefront of the green energy movement.
This significant upgrade not only enhances educational opportunities but also represents a concrete step towards a cleaner, more sustainable future for Namibia.
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