The exchanges and discussions with the various players in Senegal and Switzerland have borne fruit. The first project of the PVSYST Foundation, in partnership with AccEd, a Geneva-based Swiss association specializing in education and training, is taking shape and the first actions are about to begin. The project aims to train and incubate solar photovoltaic technicians and entrepreneurs. With a training center based in Thiès, the project aims to offer

• Initial training for school dropouts, and continuing training for energy professionals working in rural areas;
• A post-training support and networking system to ensure that the skills acquired are put into practice.

To this end, a mission was organized to fine-tune the organizational set-up and define the scope of the intervention.

The main institutional players in the energy sector were approached and met to present the draft project, gather opinions and advice, and promote networking. We have also approached photovoltaic professionals and technical trainers working in training centers, with a view to building up a team of trainers for the training center. A selection of energy equipment suppliers have also been approached to take part in the training and support courses. Finally, the authorities in Thiès were approached to set up a partnership and facilitate the installation of the project and the center in the commune.

The first activities around the development of the training curriculum and the setting up of the training center were then initiated with the facilitation of Cheick Tahar, a consultant recruited as a local relay and involved part-time in the setting up of the project.

Find out more, link to project description