Activities

We are thrilled to share the highlights of the closing event for the collaborative project “Solar Energy for a Decarbonised Future – Knowledge Transfer for Environmental Education and Awareness (SolAware)”, held at the University of Mosul on February 12, 2025. This event marked the culmination of a year-long partnership between the University of Mosul, Teesside University, and the British Council, aimed at advancing solar energy education and fostering sustainable development in Iraq.   The event commenced with an inspiring opening speech by Dr. Rawaa Qasha, who emphasized the importance of international collaboration in addressing global challenges such as climate change and energy sustainability. She highlighted the transformative impact of the SolAware project on both the academic community and the broader society, particularly in promoting renewable energy awareness and education.   Following the opening remarks, Dr. Maher Al-Greer, Associate Professor in Power Conversion, Energy Informatics, and Control at Teesside University, presented an overview of the SolAware project. Dr. Maher outlined the project’s goals, which included capacity building, curriculum development, and the integration of solar technology into academic programs. He also discussed the long-term vision of creating a skilled workforce capable of driving clean energy adoption in Iraq. His presentation highlighted the successful training of over 100 students and staff, as well as the development of solar-related group projects.   Next, Dr. Omar Abdulwahid and Dr. Ahmad Muneer from the University of Mosul delivered a detailed presentation on the project’s implementation and outcomes. They showcased the comprehensive training curriculum, which included hands-on labs, solar cell fabrication, and the design of photovoltaic (PV) systems. The presentation also highlighted the project’s emphasis on diversity and inclusion, with 50% of the 130 participants being female students. Dr. Omar and Dr. Ahmad shared how the project fostered innovation and research, leading to tangible outcomes such as student publications and conference presentations.   The event also featured speeches from Mr. Ben Lawton, the Director of the British Council and Miss. Rosy Cave,  the Deputy of the British Ambassador, who praised the collaborative efforts of the University of Mosul and Teesside University. They commended the project team for their dedication and achievements over the past year, emphasizing the importance of such partnerships in driving structural and institutional change. Both speakers expressed their hope for continued collaboration and the expansion of renewable energy initiatives in Iraq.   The SolAware project has not only equipped students with practical skills in solar energy technology but has also laid the foundation for lifelong learning and career development in renewable energy. The integration of the developed curriculum into the University of Mosul’s academic programs ensures that the impact of this project will be felt for years to come.   The event concluded with the opening of an exhibition showcasing posters and student projects developed during the SolAware project. Guests had the opportunity to explore innovative solutions and research findings presented by the students. The exhibition highlighted the practical applications of the knowledge gained through the project and demonstrated the students’ ability to tackle real-world challenges in renewable energy. It was a proud moment for all involved, as the creativity and hard work of the students were on full display. As a token of appreciation for their dedication and hard work, certificates were awarded to the students who participated in the summer projects. These certificates recognize their contributions to advancing solar energy research and their commitment to sustainable development. We are incredibly proud of their achievements and look forward to seeing how they will continue to make an impact in the field of renewable energy.   We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the participants, speakers, and supporters who made this project a resounding success. Special thanks to the British Council for their invaluable support, and to the teams at the University of Mosul and Teesside University for their hard work and dedication. We would also like to express our sincere appreciation to the College of Engineering and the College of Science for their unwavering help and support throughout the year-long project. Their commitment and collaboration were instrumental in achieving the project’s goals and ensuring its success. As we close this chapter, we look forward to future collaborations that will continue to advance renewable energy education and contribute to a decarbonised future.

Did you miss our second webinar? No worries! Here’s a quick recap of the key highlights Webinar Title: Small-Scale Solar PV Systems – From Design to Implementation 📅 Date & Time: Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at 5:00 PM (Baghdad Local Time)💻 Platform: Microsoft Teams🎙 Speaker: Mr. Zaid Alhafedh – Alhadbaa Modern Co. Ltd. Overview: In this informative session, we explored the step-by-step process of installing small-scale solar PV systems. Our expert speaker, Mr. Zaid Alhafedh, shared his insights into system design, feasibility studies, installation procedures, and post-installation monitoring. Key Topics Covered: ✔ Understanding Client Needs – How to assess power requirements and available space.✔ Site Assessment & Feasibility Studies – Evaluating location suitability and system yield.✔ Design & Installation Planning – Preparing technical and financial offers for clients.✔ Implementation & Commissioning – Ensuring proper setup and safety measures.✔ System Monitoring & Maintenance – The importance of long-term performance tracking. Audience Engagement: The webinar featured an interactive Q&A session where attendees asked insightful questions about system efficiency, maintenance best practices, and the latest advancements in solar technology.   Webinar Slides here: Small-Scale PV Systems Projects  Recorded Session here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1WvNYzvpgkl5hMu4QhT2iKwUPNKWwJ234/view  

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

Did you miss our latest webinar? No worries, I’ve got you covered with a quick recap of the key highlights! Webinar Title: The Efficiency of Solar Panels Date: 24th April, 2024, 6:00-7:00 PM (GMT+3) Platform: Microsoft Teams Speaker: Eng. Sarmad Janderma Overview: In our webinar, we delved into the term “Energy Transformation” in addition to the Efficiency of Solar Panels. Our speaker provided valuable insights and expertise on the development of the solar panels and fabrication techniques. Audience Interaction: We had an engaging Q&A session where participants asked thought-provoking questions. It was fantastic to see the enthusiasm and curiosity from the audience. Next Steps: Missed the webinar? Don’t worry! You have access to the webinar slides and the recorded session below: Webinar slides: the attached webinar sildes here Link of the recorded session: https://youtu.be/xinHO9IQgqQ?si=LFCKhSoeimlG8MA- keep an eye out for announcements about our upcoming events and webinars. #Solaware