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As part of the ongoing cooperation between the University of Mosul, the Nineveh Directorate of Education, and in collaboration with Teesside University in the United Kingdom, and within the framework of the international program organized by the University of Mosul with support from the British Council, the Department of Renewable Energy hosted a group of students from the following schools: Ibn al-Athir Preparatory School for Girls, Al-Qada Private Secondary School for Boys, and Ardh Alrafidian Private Secondary School for Girls. The visit began with an introductory presentation about the Department of Renewable Energy, where a detailed explanation was provided regarding renewable energy technologies such as solar cells and hydrogen, along with the characteristics and significance of each type of energy. The students also toured the department’s scientific laboratories, where they were introduced to various hands-on experiments in the field. Additionally, the students were acquainted with the new equipment sent by Teesside University, which was installed in the department to enhance practical research and provide an advanced learning environment in the field of renewable energy. This visit is part of the Solaware project activities, supported by the British Council, aimed at raising awareness among students about the importance of clean energy in the production of electricity. This activity represents an important step in promoting environmental awareness and encouraging young people to think of innovative and sustainable solutions for the future of energy in Iraq.

An international scientific workshop was held on Thursday, November 14, 2024, at Duhok polytechnic University. The workshop is part of the SolAware collaboration project in the field of solar energy, in partnership with Teesside University, UK, and supported by the British Council. The workshop attended by the Assistant President for Scientific Affairs at Duhok Technical University, the Dean of the College of Engineering, and Assistant Prof. Dr. Rawaa Qasha, Director of the SolAware Project at the University of Mosul, as well as members of the SolAware Team. Dr. Qasha highlighted the collaboration between the University of Mosul and Teesside University, demonstrating it as a foundation for pursuing sustainable initiatives that benefit both the university and the larger community. The event included a series of scientific seminars ran by the SolAware team that highlighted key project activities. These included summer training seminars, student-led initiatives, and the development of an in-depth handbook on solar panel systems for both staff and students. The sessions also explained the concept of microgrids, demonstrating practical examples of their deployment and the benefits they provide in terms of clean, sustainable electricity. Furthermore, advancements in the design and manufacturing of solar cells were also discussed. The event finished with an open discussion between the SolAware team and officials from Duhok Polytechnic University. The discussion focused on the advantages and disadvantages of solar panel technology, strategies for increasing efficiency, and expectations for the future of solar energy, including possible risks and opportunities.

An international scientific workshop was held on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at Al-Noor University College. The workshop is part of the SolAware collaboration project in the field of solar energy, in partnership with Teesside University, UK, and supported by the British Council. The event was attended by Prof. Dr. Yaseen Taha Al-Hajjar, President of Al-Noor University College; Prof. Dr. Muneer Salem Taha, Vice President of the University of Mosul for Scientific Affairs; several deans from the colleges of Mosul and Al-Noor Universities; and a group of professors and academics specializing in solar energy The workshop aimed to showcase the activities carried out during the project, including summer training programs, student-led projects, the development of a handbook, and webinars on solar panel technology. These efforts were designed to enhance the quality and relevance of educational opportunities, support students in building their professional careers after graduation, and provide them with the tools needed to engage in inspiring academic or professional projects. The projects empower students to apply their theoretical knowledge in practical settings and create innovative solutions in the fields of solar energy and clean energy technologies.

Dr Maher Al-Greer presenting our work “Solar Energy Education: Curriculum Framework Development” at 2024 IEEE International Symposium on Systems Engineering-2024 ISSE (https://2024.ieeeisse.org/). See our presentation here: Presentation

The SolAware Project Team’s Participation in the Teesside University Training Programme The SolAware project team actively participated in a training program organized by Teesside University in collaboration with AdvancedHE Associate. The training program consisted of four modules, the first three of which were conducted online, while the last one took place in person. This program was designed to enhance participants skills in learning, teaching, and research through international collaboration. Participants included staff members from both the University of Mosul and Teesside University. Training Modules Overview: The training program covered the following key modules: 1. Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in Learning and Teaching: This module focused on integrating EDI principles into educational practices, fostering an inclusive learning environment, and ensuring equal opportunities for all students. It highlighted strategies for addressing biases and creating a culture of respect and belonging within academic settings. 2. Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoLT): The SoLT module provided insights into research-based teaching practices. Participants explored the importance of evidence-based methods to improve learning outcomes, alongside strategies for conducting scholarly research to inform and enhance teaching methodologies. 3. Building Transnational Relationships and Projects: This module emphasized the significance of forming strong transnational partnerships to enhance educational and research collaboration. It addressed challenges and best practices in managing cross-border projects, cultural exchanges, and maintaining effective communication between international partners. 4. Research Leadership: The Research Leadership module offered guidance on leading academic research teams and projects. It explored the qualities of effective research leaders, strategies for mentoring junior researchers, and techniques for securing funding, while promoting innovation and academic excellence. Participation and Collaboration: The SolAware team, alongside other staff members from the University of Mosul and Teesside University, engaged in the program with the aim of strengthening their professional development in teaching and research. The in-person module facilitated deeper collaboration between the two universities, promoting knowledge exchange and fostering stronger transnational ties. The training program provided valuable opportunities for participants to enhance their teaching and research capabilities, while building international partnerships. The SolAware project team benefitted significantly from the program’s comprehensive focus on EDI, scholarly teaching practices, transnational collaborations, and research leadership, which will contribute to the ongoing success of the project.

As part of the project activities, the project team, accompanied by University President Professor Qusay Al-Ahmadi, visited Teesside University from August 13-15, 2024. The visit included various scientific and academic activities, workshops, and training sessions. Day 1: The team attended the fourth module of a training program on Research Leadership, organized by Teesside University in collaboration with AdvancedHE Associate. Day 2: The team visited Europe’s largest Net Zero research center at Teesside University. They met with center officials, toured the laboratories, viewed numerous industrial and research projects, and discussed ways to enhance scientific cooperation between the University of Mosul and institutions in Britain. Day 3: The visit concluded with a comprehensive training workshop for the project team and solar energy specialists, led by experts from Teesside University. The workshop focused on advanced solar energy systems, including photovoltaic technology, solar power integration, and energy storage solutions. Participants engaged with cutting-edge simulation tools and emulators used to design, monitor, and optimize solar energy systems. These emulators allowed the team to test different scenarios for maximizing energy efficiency in real-world conditions, providing valuable hands-on experience with both small-scale and industrial solar installations