The first training on solar PV installations for Syrian refugees and Turkish citizens from host communities started in Gaziantep, Turkey, in July 2019.

Within the framework of the Renewables and Migration (REMI) project, the first training on solar PV installations for Syrian refugees and Turkish citizens from host communities started in Gaziantep, Turkey, in July 2019. The trainings take place in Gaziantep Chamber of Commerce’s Vocational Training Center.

Prior to the solar trainings, Syrian refugees take part in Turkish courses provided by GIZ’s Promotion of Economic Prospects Project (PEP). The solar trainings themselves are conducted in Turkish with the help of an Arabic-Turkish interpreter. This training format enables Syrian and Turkish participants to learn side by side and install the systems cooperatively, potentially establishing businesses together.

With the help of 4 trainers who successfully completed the 6-week Training-of-Trainers, up to 300 participants will learn to design, assemble and install photovoltaic installations for electricity generation and solar-thermal installations for warm water production. Additionally, the trainings include maintenance and repair and a section on off-grid solutions to be applied specifically upon relocation to Syria eventually.

Until the end of 2020, 15 solar trainings in total will be conducted in Gaziantep.