From November 25th to December 10th, the Strathmore Energy Research Centre (SERC), in partnership with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), successfully conducted a training of trainers (TOT) for 24 engineers who serve as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) instructors, work in private companies and the national government.

The key outcome of the training was to equip the trainers with technical solar photovoltaic (PV) competencies and pedagogical capacity. The curriculum blended essential theory with hands-on practical sessions, site visits, and guided action-planning activities, covering electrical fundamentals, PV system design, installation, commissioning, troubleshooting, and competency-based training methodologies. The trainers visited SOLARGEN for a complete, start-to-finish demonstration of a professional solar installation, offering invaluable, real-world context on modern Kenyan system practices.

At the end of the two-week programme, every student had developed a concrete action plan, said Abdulkadir Ahmed Ali Mohammed, Solar PV Instructor at the Banadir Training Institute, Somalia. “The action plans we have developed will enable each of us to transform the lives of young people in our communities by accelerating youth employment and expanding the use of renewable energy.”

On his part, Hamud Mohamed Farah, Chief Technical Officer, National Energy Cooperation of Somalia (NESCOM), said the training of trainers has given him comprehensive knowledge on successfully executing a complete solar PV project. “I learnt how to design effective solar PV systems using the correct tools, understanding the optimal installation locations in Somalia based on performance and finally how to structure and mount the physical system,” said Hamud.

Hamud receives his certificate from Dr. Churchil Saoke, Director SERC.

During the closing ceremony, Fuhumiko Suzuki, JICA, emphasized the importance of replicating this training for others upon their return to Somalia. “The training you received was not for you to become a better technical expert but an excellent trainer so that you can pass the knowledge to others.”

Prof. Izael Da Silva, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Research and Innovation at Strathmore University, urged the trainers “not to be a mere observer but become an agent of change,” further adding the essential reminder that “before being a student, remember you are a human being. Put the common good above everything else.”

After two and a half weeks of intensive training, the TOT concluded with a post-training assessment and certification, with participants demonstrating improved technical understanding and readiness to deliver quality solar PV training to the youth in Somalia.

May all 24 engineers steadfastly carry the torch and continue illuminating the path for future generations in Somalia.

Article written by Anne Njeri, Communications Officer, Strathmore Energy Research Centre.