The fifth AIR project meeting was held from 22 to 26 October 2018 at the University of Zambia (UNZA) in Lusaka, Zambia.

The meeting was opened by Dr Michael Mulenga, Dean of UNZA’s School of Engineering. The main focus of the meeting was the definition of the teaching methods in the AIR Bachelor’s programme in Renewable Energy Technology Systems (RET) as well as the finalisation of the joint publication by the AIR team and the development of the international Master’s programme in RET.

Ms Anna Banda Chandipo from the local Ministry of Energy gave a presentation on ‘The Energy Situation in Zambia’, which provided the team with a comprehensive overview of local realities. In addition to the meetings at UNZA facilities on campus, the project team undertook an excursion to the ‘Model Green School’ in Woodlands, Lusaka, as well as to the Kafue Gorge Dam and Regional Training Centre.

To enhance the cooperation between academia and industry, the AIR project team invited their local industry partners in Zambia to present their activities. While Mr Geoffrey Kaila (Muhanya Solar Ltd) introduced the solar energy business in Zambia to the team, Prof Thomson Sinkala (Thomro Biofuels) focussed his presentation on the status of biofuels in the country. Following the discussion during the meeting in the morning, the AIR project team was able to further exchange ideas with the representatives from industry over dinner.

The next project meeting will take place in March 2019. For more information, please contact info@air-project.org.