MinREACH, AdDU-MREC, TESDA XI to promote RE TVET courses
To address the challenge of maintaining renewable energy technologies, especially in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA), the Mindanao Renewable Energy Acceleration and Coordination Hub (Mindanao REACH) has initiated a discussion between the Ateneo de Davao University-Mindanao Renewable Energy R&D Center (AdDU-MREC) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority Region XI (TESDA XI), March 26, 2024.
This collaboration aims to provide technical vocational education and training (TVET) on Photovoltaic Systems Installation NC II to Indigenous peoples, women, and out-of-school youths. By equipping these communities with the necessary skills for installing and maintaining solar power systems, the initiative seeks to enhance sustainability and self-sufficiency in GIDA regions.
By introducing the Photovoltaic Systems Installation NC II courses, this collaboration aims to provide hands-on, practical skills training. This type of education is crucial, as it not only equips participants with the technical know-how necessary for installing and maintaining solar power systems but also empowers them by enhancing their job prospects in a growing sector.
Furthermore, by focusing on indigenous and underserved communities, the program seeks to promote inclusivity and ensure that the benefits of renewable energy technologies are widely and equitably shared.
The courses are expected to have a significant impact on local communities by fostering a sense of ownership and engagement with renewable energy projects.
This empowerment through education can lead to improved maintenance and sustainability of these systems, ultimately contributing to the broader goal of energy security and economic stability in GIDA regions.
By aligning with local needs and conditions, the initiative supports a just transition to renewable energy that respects and incorporates local knowledge and practices.
MinREACH, AdDU-MREC to organize RE industry board
Meanwhile, the partnership eye to organize an RE Industry Board to boost collaboration, innovation, and skill development in the renewable energy sector, fostering the creation of an RE ecosystem.
The establishment of the RE Industry Board is pivotal for several reasons:
- Collaboration Enhancement: The board aims to serve as a platform where industry leaders, academic institutions, government agencies, and other stakeholders can come together to share ideas, resources, and strategies. This collaborative environment is expected to lead to more cohesive and coordinated efforts in tackling the challenges and opportunities within the renewable energy sector.
- Skill Development and Training: By involving TESDA XI, the board emphasizes the critical role of technical vocational education and training (TVET) in building a skilled workforce that is equipped to meet the demands of the RE industry. The focus on skill development is crucial for ensuring that the workforce can effectively contribute to and benefit from the growing emphasis on renewable energy technologies.
- Innovation Promotion: The board is expected to foster innovation by facilitating research and development (R&D) initiatives that can lead to new technologies and solutions in the RE sector. AdDU-MREC’s involvement ensures that there is a strong research component, which is essential for addressing the technological and practical challenges of renewable energy deployment, particularly in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA).
- Ecosystem Creation: Ultimately, the goal of the RE Industry Board is to cultivate a robust renewable energy ecosystem that supports sustainable development. This ecosystem would integrate various components such as policy making, capacity building, community engagement, and market development, thereby creating a comprehensive framework that supports the long-term growth and sustainability of the renewable energy sector in Mindanao.
By spearheading the creation of this industry board, Mindanao REACH and AdDU-MREC are positioning themselves as key facilitators in the movement towards a more sustainable and inclusive energy future in the region. This initiative not only aims to enhance local capacities and technologies but also to ensure that the benefits of renewable energy advancements are shared widely and equitably across communities.