A new curriculum focusing on renewable energy has been introduced by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) in collaboration with Egypt's Ministry of Education. This initiative aims to equip over 300 technical school students in Aswan and Hurghada with skills necessary for careers in Egypt's growing solar and wind power sectors.
The program, a first of its kind in Egypt, is designed as a three-year diploma course. It aligns with the Egyptian government's objective to generate 20 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2022. The curriculum will supply skilled workers for projects like the Benban Solar Park in Aswan, which features 40 solar stations intended to meet rising electricity demands.
Jointly developed by the Ministry of Education and Technical Education alongside USAID, this curriculum is initially being piloted at three technical schools located in Aswan and Hurghada. There are plans to expand it to 57 schools across nine governorates. The coursework integrates both classroom learning and practical experience, preparing students to immediately contribute as technicians within the renewable energy industry.
"The launch of this new curriculum could not be more timely," remarked USAID Mission Director Sherry F. Carlin during an event at Benban Technical School. "Employers like engineering companies and renewable energy firms need to hire people with skills and experience, and this new technical education program trains students to become skilled technicians who are qualified for these jobs."
Notable attendees at the launch ceremony held at Benban Technical School included Aswan Governor General Magdy Fouad Hegazy and Deputy Minister of Education and Technical Education Dr. Ahmed El Geushey.
This educational effort forms part of a broader $30 billion investment made by American citizens through USAID since 1978. More information about USAID’s activities in Egypt can be found at https://www.usaid.gov/egypt or on social media platforms Facebook and Twitter via @USAIDEgypt.