IRENA opens applications for 2021 Cohort of its Student Leaders Program

With the recognition that renewable energy offers limitless potentials among which is solving the energy poverty, there’s a budding interest in the energy industry particularly among the youths globally.

In a bid to sustain this growing interest and even inspire more young people, The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) has launched the Student Leaders Program.

The IRENA Student Leaders Program (SLP) is a three-month event and is open to undergraduate and postgraduate students with a passion to build a career in the renewable energy sector. The virtual program is designed to prepare a future generation of global energy professionals.

Following the successful graduation of the first cohort which comprised 40 UAE-based trainees who have acquired extensive knowledge that helped them shape their own ideas and solutions to global energy challenges, IRENA has expanded the program to include students from across the globe.

What to expect

Trainees will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to address urgent energy challenges. This will be delivered through a combination of lectures from IRENA staff, interactive discussions, and group tasks. The training will begin in September and end in December 2021. Focus areas of the training include:

• Renewable energy technologies and end uses
• Renewable energy education and youth engagement
• Energy policymaking
• Energy statistics and targets
• Energy access and off-grid applications
• Socio-economic benefits of renewable energy
• Innovation for a renewable-powered future
• Private sector and industry action
• Energy transition and solutions

Who can apply?

Undergraduate and postgraduate students who are studying courses related to development, economics, energy, engineering, environmental studies, finance, or international affairs.

Application process

To apply for the IRENA Student Leaders Program, interested candidates must take note of the following:

• Indicate your interest by filling in this form
• Provide a comprehensive CV stating the university, undergraduate program, and certifications;
• Submit a 500-word personal statement highlighting the reasons for applying to the program and detailing any relevant experience.

Deadline

Entries must be submitted no later than Wednesday, September 15, 2021.