DOHA: Qatar Solar Technologies (QSTec) has set up an innovative hands-on solar learning programme ‘Shams Generation’ to bridge the knowledge gap and develop the next generation of solar engineers, artists and renewable energy entrepreneurs.
Shams Generation was established as an interactive learning programme that combines art, science and use of solar energy.
In the first stage of the pilot programme, QSTec provided solar learning kits at various scholastic levels and abilities to Qatar Academy, Awsaj, Qatar Academy Sidra and Doha College.
Teachers attended workshops and were given access to the interactive website which provides online learning tools for them based on three Shams Generation levels of solar learning.
Kits were distributed to participating students who then had to draw upon their skill sets to create innovative solar works of art that combine light, motion and solar energy.
Over 750 students are participating in the programme which will cover 1,500 students in the next academic year as part of QSTec’s efforts to encourage innovative approaches to learning.
Shams Generation is based on an interdisciplinary approach to education called STEAM that combines science, technology, engineering, art and maths in a way that allows students to thrive and encourages lifelong learning skills.
Qatar Academy and Doha College showcased students’ creative solar applications at their solar art and light exhibitions at Qatar Foundation and Doha College’s Al Waab school.
The exhibitions highlighted the success of the pilot programme and students’ creativity with hundreds of solar art projects on display.
Designs highlighted students’ creativity and ability to understand how solar energy works and utilise this in unique ways.
“Educating our youth about the use of energy, the protection of the environment and the conservation of our natural resources is of prime importance for the future of our planet,” said Dr Khalid K Al Hajri, Chairman and CEO, QSTec.
“We are proud to be working with schools in creating programmes that encourage students to learn about solar energy and develop creative solar-powered works of art and applications that are inspiring. The unique programme is developing our next generation of solar engineers and protecting our planet for future generations.”
An exhibition of students’ works will be held at night after Iftar from June 27 until the end of Eid at Katara.
From July 1 until the end of Ramadan, children will be able to participate in hands-on creative solar workshops and learn how to build solar lanterns daily starting from 9pm.
Shams Generation exhibition and workshops will be held at Building No. 13 at Katara.
The Peninsula
