Huawei, and United International University (UIU)’s Centre for Energy Research inaugurate Bangladesh’s first advanced solar lab, aimed at boosting renewable energy skills and job opportunities.
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| Huawei opens an advanced solar lab at UIU to support Bangladesh’s renewable energy growth, offering hands-on training for students and professionals. Image Courtesy: UIU |
Dhaka, Bangladesh - November 9, 2024:
Huawei's inauguration of an advanced solar lab at United International University (UIU) in collaboration with UIU’s Centre for Energy Research (CER) is a significant milestone in Bangladesh's renewable energy sector. This new facility not only highlights the growing momentum towards sustainable energy in the country but also emphasizes Huawei's commitment to supporting local educational and capacity-building initiatives.
The lab, equipped with cutting-edge solar and Energy Storage System (ESS) technology, will provide students and professionals with hands-on training opportunities. This is particularly valuable in a context where Bangladesh’s renewable sector is booming but faces a shortage of skilled workers. As Shahriar Ahmed Chowdhury, Director of CER, pointed out, thousands of new green jobs are projected to emerge as the nation expands its solar power capacity. Bangladesh added a record-breaking 42 megawatts of rooftop solar capacity in 2023 alone, underscoring the demand for skilled labor in this fast-evolving industry.
This project is also a landmark in China-Bangladesh relations, strengthening bilateral ties while fostering local talent development. Chinese Ambassador H.E. Yao Wen spoke on the importance of empowering youth in Bangladesh’s renewable sector, positioning the lab as a symbol of China’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s clean energy goals. This facility reflects Huawei's ongoing contributions to Bangladesh’s energy and technology landscape, following previous investments like the 5G lab at the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET).
The Huawei-CER solar lab will offer three-month certification courses to help young engineers and professionals acquire practical skills in solar technology, preparing them for roles in Bangladesh’s growing green economy. By focusing on human resource development and targeted training programs, Huawei and CER aim to bridge the skills gap in Bangladesh’s renewable energy industry.
Bangladesh’s drive towards renewables is fueled by both economic and environmental incentives, as renewable energy offers cost savings of around 20% compared to conventional energy sources, according to Prof. Dr. Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, an adviser to the Ministry of Power. As the country tackles its energy needs through green technology, investments in education, like this lab, become essential to ensure long-term sustainability and energy security.
The Huawei-UIU lab is an exemplary step forward for Bangladesh, demonstrating how academia, industry, and international partnerships can converge to build a skilled workforce and strengthen renewable energy infrastructure. The initiative aligns with global sustainability goals and reflects Bangladesh's ambition to become a leader in renewable energy within South Asia.