Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has partnered with the Sharjah Research Technology & Innovation Park (SRTIP) to establish the first Energy and Water Knowledge Hub in the MENA region. This Hub aims to find innovative solutions for pressing humanitarian challenges in the field of water and energy and hopes to emerge as a key regional platform for dialogue and action.

The Energy and Water Knowledge Hub, located at the SRTIP, will host in-person classes, and provide technical laboratories to train ICRC staff and other organizations, nurturing expertise in sustainable energy solutions, notably renewable energy.

Clare Dalton, ICRC’s Head of Delegation in the UAE, said, “Climate change has global repercussions, but those in fragile environments feel its harshest impacts. The dual challenges of climate change and conflict exacerbate inequalities and suffering”. Dalton added, “This kind of collaboration with our UAE counterparts underscores the power of pooling expertise and best practices to amplify our collective ability to address humanitarian challenges together. “The UAE’s commitment to environmental stewardship, innovation, and humanitarian action makes it the ideal location for this regional Hub. The Hub’s establishment is timely, especially as the UAE prepares to host the COP28 at the end of November”.

Hussain Al Mahmoudi, CEO of SRTIP, said, “As the region’s fastest growing and vibrant technology park, SRTIP is pleased to partner with ICRC to set up the region’s first Energy and Water Knowledge Hub. At SRTIP, we are at the forefront of initiatives focused on finding innovative solutions in the fields of water and energy by supporting startups that are driven by innovation and sustainability. The launch of this hub couldn’t have come at a more opportune time, as the UAE is all set to host the COP28 event in Dubai, to be attended by some of the biggest players engaged in combating climate change. We assure our full support to ICRC, other humanitarian bodies and all those who will be using this facility in the interest of sustainable energy solutions.”

The holistic training facility in the UAE will integrate advanced renewable energy training with foundational humanitarian operation modules, targeting a diverse audience from various sectors, such as academia, the private sector, development, and other humanitarian organizations that run energy projects and face similar challenges to find innovative sustainable solutions that draw on new technologies.

Joe Battikh, Head of ICRC’s Energy & Water Knowledge Hub, shared, “Our team has eagerly awaited this initiative as we have lots of studies and input from our experts, staff, and partners to support this endeavor. Climate change mitigation and promoting sustainability in our humanitarian operations is a top priority, and we’re geared to make global impacts with our partners to support impacted communities”.

The Hub’s strategic partners, Schneider Electric, Grundfos, the Paul Due Jensen Foundation, and SRTIP, have also contributed to this initiative. The first training session for ICRC engineers from the region kicked off on 6 November 2023, with further sessions lined up for the subsequent years, which are open to interested partners and organizations to train and have their staff trained.

Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP) is an institution located in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. Established in 2016, SRTIP is focused on promoting research, technology, and innovation in various fields, including healthcare, energy, environment, and technology. The institution aims to create a collaborative platform for academic institutions, businesses, and government agencies to work together in order to promote innovation and entrepreneurship. SRTIP provides a range of facilities and services to its members, including cutting-edge laboratories, research and development facilities, training programs, and funding opportunities. The institution’s goal is to create a knowledge-based economy in the region by promoting research, innovation, and entrepreneurship. SRTIP is committed to supporting the UAE’s vision of becoming a global leader in science and technology.

Meanwhile, Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is organising WETEX and Dubai Solar Show 2023 under the directives of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, from 15 to 17 November 2023, at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

“WETEX and DSS enhance youth participation in global events. It empowers them with knowledge, opportunities, skills, and the necessary tools to foster their active contribution in achieving sustainable development and net zero and to become the next generation of sustainability leaders. The exhibition provides the youth with a platform to be heard and present their ideas and innovative solutions that support our climate ambitions. This holds special significance in the Year of Sustainability in the UAE, during which the country is hosting COP28 at Expo City Dubai from 30 November to 12 December 2023. The conference will provide substantial space for youth climate work,” said HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, Founder and Chairman of WETEX and Dubai Solar Show.

The sessions will be held in hall 8 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, with the participation of major local and international organisations. These include the Climate Change and Environment, Zayed International Foundation for the Environment, Emirates Green Building Council, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation, Emirates Environmental Group, Expo City Dubai, Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP), ACWA Power, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), University of Manchester, Huawei, Dell, Bureau Veritas, Sunergy Advisory, LinkedIn, The West Lab, and others.