The University of Yaoundé hosted a landmark Capacity Building Workshop from January 20–24, 2025, focusing on SophiA’s innovative technologies. This intensive five-day program brought together 20 lecturers and researchers from universities across Cameroon, marking a significant step toward advancing renewable energy education in the region.
A total of 35 participants attended the training over five days, including 8 women, representing 22,85% of the attendees. Participants included for instance representatives from the Ministry of Water and Energy, the biomedical engineer from the Fondation Médicale Ad Lucem, as well as women research engineer.
Day 1: Laying the Foundation
The workshop opened at the University’s Digital Development Center (CDNU), with an address by Vice-Rector Prof. Jean NJOYA, emphasizing the importance of collaboration for innovation and sustainable development. Prof. Dr. Ing. Michael KAUFFIELD, SophiA’s General Coordinator, introduced the project’s objectives, emphasizing its role in addressing energy challenges in Africa.
Kodjo Sedi AGBOKOU launched the program with a comprehensive session on photovoltaic solar energy, highlighting the technology’s components, benefits, and applications.
Heike HOEDT and Kilian KÄLIN delivered lectures on PV MedPort, PV Troubleshooting, Operation, and Maintenance as well as SCADA the next day.
Day 2: Deep Dive into Refrigeration and Solar Energy
The second day saw dynamic discussions on refrigeration and photovoltaic solar energy. Participants, including lecturers from Yaoundé, Mbalmayo, Maroua, Ngaoundéré, and Buea universities, showcased their keen interest with insightful questions and observations.
Day 3: International Expertise and Collaboration
The third day of the Workshop focused on high-level training in renewable energy solutions. Sessions, by experts Oliver SCHMID and Aboubakar GOMNA covered key topics such as solar thermal energy, water and sanitation, refrigeration, and photovoltaic solar energy.
Day 4: Practical Applications
The fourth day, led by Heike HOEDT and N’TSOUKPOE Kokouvi Edem was dedicated to solar thermal technologies, covering both solar water heating and solar heat for industrial processes. Participants engaged in hands-on training, assembling and operating solar thermal devices designed to provide hot and cold water for hospitals and households. The sessions also introduced advanced applications, including the PVSteamCube system. As part of the material transfer initiative, the Renewable Energy Department of the IUT-Bois, under Prof. Benoît NDZANA, received an ETC solar water heater to support practical training and research in renewable energy applications.
Day 5: Closing and Looking Ahead
During the final day, Seyram SOSSOU focused on the role of water treatment in improving healthcare facilities. The next phase of SophiA will see these technologies installed at the Ad Lucem Hospital in Edéa, ensuring reliable water and electricity for patient care.
The program concluded with a ceremony led by Vice-Rector Prof. Edmond BILOA, celebrating the successful transfer of both knowledge and technology. Participants received certificates, marking a milestone in their professional development and strengthening their capacity to train future generations.
As a testament to the workshop’s impact, attendees are already preparing to integrate these innovations into their teaching and research.
Acknowledgments
The success of this workshop is owed to the dedication of the Cameroon team, including Martin BIMI, Aurélie ABOMO AYINDA, and the entire SophiA network. We extend our deepest gratitude to the Rector of the University of Yaoundé 1, Prof. Rémy Magloire ETOUA, for granting all necessary authorizations, as well as to Prof. Auguste OWONO KOUMA for his invaluable guidance during the preparatory meetings. Special thanks also go to Prof. Benoît NDZANA for serving as a vital liaison. Finally, we sincerely appreciate the contributions of our partners in Cameroon and Aboubakar GOMNA from 2iE for facilitating seamless coordination.
Stay tuned for more updates as SophiA continues to shape sustainable energy solutions in Africa!
