Arba Minch University (AMU), through its Renewable Energy Technology Research Center, in partnership with Sahay Solar Association–Germany, successfully conducted a two-week Advanced Solar Training (AST) program from February 2–12, 2026. The training engaged students and academic staff from multiple engineering disciplines, along with international interns from Switzerland. Click here to see more photos.
Speaking at the opening of the training, AMU President Dr. Eng. Abdella Kemal stated that the presence of international partners demonstrates a shared commitment to advancing solar energy solutions essential for shaping the future global energy landscape. He noted that the program is designed not only to enhance theoretical knowledge but also to provide practical, hands-on experience, culminating in the installation and commissioning of a 5kW solar system for a rural school and irrigation water pumping. Emphasizing the growing importance of renewable energy, the President highlighted that solar power plays a crucial role in addressing pressing global challenges such as climate change, rapid population growth, limited energy access, and sustainability concerns, particularly where conventional fossil-based energy systems fall short. He further acknowledged the partners for their continued support and stressed that the training goes beyond technical capacity building, serving as a platform to foster professional networking, collaborative learning, and cultural exchange among participants from diverse backgrounds.
Dr. Muluneh Lemma, Scientific Director of the Arba Minch Institute of Technology (AMiT), welcomed participants to the training and highlighted that the solar initiative was launched in 2011 with the primary objectives of capacity building and community engagement. He noted that, through strong collaboration with partners, the project has electrified numerous remote off-grid rural schools and health centers in Gamo and Goffa Zones using photovoltaic (PV) technologies, delivering life-changing and impactful interventions that have strengthened education and public health services. Dr. Muluneh further explained that the training encompasses a wide range of topics, including advanced solar technologies, system design and sizing, practical PV system installation, commissioning, and maintenance. He also acknowledged the dedicated efforts of the Sahay Solar Association team, commending their sustained commitment to maintaining installed solar systems and providing continuous annual training support.
Dr. Yalisho Girma, Director of the Renewable Energy Technology Research Center at AMU, stated that this year’s Advanced Solar Training (AST) marks the 15th round since the program’s launch in 2011, bringing the total number of trainees to 948 who have been equipped with state-of-the-art solar system technologies. He noted that the training was delivered by six instructors: Prof. Roger Buser, Mr. Mirze, and Mr. Christian from Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSLU), and Dr. Muluneh Lemma, Dr. Yalisho Girma, and Mr. Samuel Kefale from AMU, each covering their assigned course components. Following theoretical sessions, laboratory experimentation, and practical exercises, trainees sat for a written examination, and 37 participants who met the minimum passing score were awarded certificates. He further explained that participants installed a 5kW solar system at Qogo Secondary High School at a cost of 3.5 million ETB to supply electricity and generate income for the local community, while another group installed a water pump at Qorga Village in Mirab Abaya Woreda.
Prof. Roger Buser, a trainer and lecturer at the University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI), stated that the non-profit Sahay Solar Association is committed to promoting the distribution and sustainable use of solar energy across the African continent, particularly in Ethiopia. He explained that the primary objective of the training is to provide participants with a solid understanding of how solar energy systems function and how to properly install them, noting that his contribution focused on the theoretical foundations and technical aspects of solar system installation. Prof. Buser further emphasized that the program empowers both local and international students to translate theoretical knowledge into practical solutions, enabling rural off-grid communities to access electricity and water for household use and agricultural production, thereby improving livelihoods, public health, and overall contribution to national development.
The other trainer from Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSLU), Jonis Collenberg, said the training provided valuable theoretical knowledge and practical skills, enabling participants to apply what they learned to help communities access electricity and related services. Similarly, Beka Abebe, a fifth-year Mechanical Engineering student at AMU, expressed gratitude for the opportunity, noting that the experience enhanced his understanding of solar technology and will support his goal of creating his own job and contributing to the renewable energy sector.
Highlighting the success of the training and the strength of their partnership, AMU and Sahay Solar Association formalized a three-year project extension at the closing ceremony. The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by AMU President Dr. Eng. Abdella Kemal and Mr. Domink Coalliker on behalf of Sahay Solar Association, reinforcing their commitment to advancing solar energy capacity and community impact. The ceremony also featured the certificate awards for trainees who successfully completed the Advanced Solar Training (AST) program and recognized outstanding partner institutions, including Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSLU) and University of Applied Sciences and Arts of Southern Switzerland (SUPSI), for their sustained contributions and commitment to renewable energy development and capacity building.
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