From Research to Market: Strengthening Collaboration for Energy and Industrial Innovation

Opening & Welcome

The day began with registration and a warm welcome from Dean Nazih Moubayed, who emphasized the importance of academia-industry partnerships in addressing regional energy challenges. Katiuscia Cipri, SERMED project coordinator from Sapienza University of Rome, provided an overview of the project’s objectives, while Dr. Sameer Khader of Palestine Polytechnic University highlighted the tangible impact of collaboration within SERMED.

Session 1: Energy Challenges & Industry Needs

Moderated by Sabine Khalil, this session featured industry representatives Alain Akiki (INDEVCO GROUP), Saiid Khawand (SOLICAR & GEMAYEL FRERES), and Dr. Bassam Taki (TAKOM SAL). Speakers outlined pressing energy challenges faced by companies and utilities, stressing the need for innovative solutions. The discussion identified key areas where academic collaboration can drive impactful change.

Session 2: Academic Research Solutions

Led by Dr. Dana Al Batlouni, professors Dr. Sabine Saad, Dr. Farouk Fardoun, and Dr. Hilal Rida from the Lebanese University presented applied research addressing energy efficiency and sustainability. Their contributions showcased how academic work can be translated into practical industrial applications, opening doors for joint R&D initiatives.

Open Discussion – Q&A

An interactive dialogue followed, moderated by Dr. Dana Al Batlouni, where industry and academia engaged directly. This session matched identified challenges with research capabilities, fostering mutual understanding and paving the way for collaborative projects.

Session 3: Technology Showcase – Industry Perspectives

Moderated by Abed Ellatif Samhat, this session highlighted innovation success stories. Andrea El Chami (EARTH TECHNOLOGIES) presented emerging solutions in renewable energy, while Dr. Hassan Shraim (LU – TAGTech Factory) showcased pilot projects demonstrating how industrial innovation can be scaled with academic support.

Session 4: Academic Research Spotlight – From Lab to Market

Also moderated by Abed Ellatif Samhat, this session featured Dr. Nesreen Ghaddar (American University of Beirut) and Dr. Rabih Dib (Lebanese University). Both presented cutting edge research with strong commercialization potential, underscoring the importance of partnerships that bridge the research to market gap.

Closing Remarks & Networking

The workshop concluded with a presentation of the SERMED platform done by Ahmad Diab and invite participants to use it then a summary of key insights. Participants emphasized the importance of sustaining dialogue between academia and industry and extended an invitation to participate in future symposia. The event successfully reinforced the value of collaboration in driving energy and industrial innovation across the region.