SASSCAL recently hosted an event to celebrate and recognize the exceptional academic accomplishments of the second cohort of JCoI Y4H2 scholarship recipients. This event highlighted the potential of these young scholars to make significant contributions to the advancement of green hydrogen technology.

The event underscored the critical role of the green hydrogen program in driving sustainable energy solutions while reaffirming our commitment to fostering the education and development of future leaders in Namibia.

In her opening remarks, SASSCAL Executive Director, Dr. Jane Olwoch highlighted the pressing issues of climate change and water scarcity facing the region. She emphasized that green hydrogen technology offers a promising solution to mitigate these challenges. Furthermore, she congratulated the students as they will be the first cohort in SADC to contribute to this groundbreaking field.

Furthermore, the event featured inspiring testimonials from the second cohort of Y4H2 Scholarship recipients. Students shared their journeys, how they earned the scholarship, and expressed gratitude to BMBF and SASSCAL for this incredible opportunity.

Their stories showcased the impact of the program and the importance of supporting future leaders in green hydrogen. The scholarship program has been instrumental in empowering young Namibians with the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute to the country’s green hydrogen transition. Under this scholarship programme SASSCAL awarded 150 young Namibians, pursuing master’s degrees and TVET certificates in renewable energy and green hydrogen. Through capacity building at Masters and TVET level, Y4H2 empowers the next generation of leaders to contribute to a sustainable future for the region.

The program is fully funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) and SASSCAL is the implementing partner for the Y4H2 program.

SASSCAL plays a crucial role in this partnership by enhancing research and human capital development to support SADC’s efforts in delivering clean, safe, and reliable energy. As the coordinator of all green hydrogen and renewable energy projects in the region, the role of SASSCAL is to oversee, coordinate, and ensure that projects are implemented as planned.

Beyond scientific research and data dissemination, SASSCAL prioritizes capacity development, training young scientists to strengthen the renewable energy sector’s expertise in green hydrogen and energy efficiency across SADC countries. This initiative supports the broader regional goal of building a competent workforce ready to meet the demands of a growing green hydrogen industry.