Harnessing Scientific Research Outcomes to Serve the Energy and Industrial Sectors

The workshop was part of the European Union-funded SERMED project, which aims to promote the adoption of sustainable energy technologies in the Mediterranean region. The event began with an opening session that included welcoming remarks from Professor Sameer Khader, Project Coordinator at PPU. Professor Mustafa Abu Safa, President of Palestine Polytechnic University, welcomed the attendees, praising the important role of concerted efforts to serve Palestinian society. Dr. Katiuscia Cirpi, Italian Grant holder, also spoke about the importance of SERMED project for scientific research and involving young researchers. In his speech, Mr. Abdo Idris, President of the Federation of Chambers of Commerce, emphasized the importance of supporting student projects and enhancing their opportunities for active participation in the Palestinian labor market. Engineer Mohammed Ghazi Harbawi, representing the Palestinian Federation of Industries, highlighted in his speech the role of scientific research in raising the efficiency and quality of industries, noting the positive impact of the integrated roles between educational institutions and private sector institutions.

Engineer Muhib Al-Ja'bari, Director of the Ministry of National Economy Directorate in Hebron Governorate, stated that these purposeful projects, which enhance systematic cooperation between higher education institutions and the industrial sector, will dedicate scientific research to serving the industrial sector and improving its quality.

The workshop included a discussion (Panel) session moderated by Dr. Raed Amro, during which participants discussed ways to strengthen partnerships between universities and the industrial sector.

Engineer Ahmed Diab from  (AUB) Lebanon, participating in this session via Zoom also gave a detailed presentation on the open educational platform being developed by the project.  

Dr. Mohammad Abu Taha, Assistant President for Community Service Affairs; Engineer Sadiq Niroukh and Engineer Ibrahim Karakes from the Jerusalem Electricity Authority; Engineer Wafa Qutina from the Hebron Electricity Authority; and Engineer Hamdi Tahboub, CEO -Palestinian Electricity Regulatory Council. Participants emphasized the need for joint work and the development of laws that govern this sector and future challenges. All participants emphasized the need for integration and joint work to solve energy problems and compensate for energy efficiency in the advancement of Palestinian industry. In the final session, a group of lecturers from the Palestine Polytechnic University and Kadoorie University presented the academic preparations (Module Maps) they have completed on the topics they are working on within the project's activities.

The activities concluded with a recommendations session that emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation between academic institutions and the industrial sector.

It is worth noting that the SERMED project is one of the important initiatives aimed at supporting the transition to clean energy in Palestine and the Mediterranean region by promoting scientific research and building effective partnerships between universities and industrial sectors.