The Renewable Energy Conference in Damascus kicks off with a call to shift from consumption to innovation.

The third International Engineering Conference on Renewable Energies kicked off today, Monday, June 16th, at the Faculty of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering at Damascus University, under the theme "Renewable Energies: Solutions and Strategies." The conference witnessed wide participation from local and international researchers, experts, ministers, governmental representatives, and academic institutions.

During the opening speech, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Dr. Marwan Al-Halabi, emphasized the need to shift from a culture of consumption to a culture of innovation, from dependence to leadership, and from subordination to creativity. He described scientists, researchers, and ambitious youth as "the fuel of the nation and the engine of its progress."

Al-Halabi highlighted the global transition towards clean energy and gradual abandonment of traditional sources, posing significant challenges to the higher education sector. He called for intensified efforts to produce knowledge, innovate solutions, and graduate competencies capable of leading this transformation, not only technically but also in formulating energy policies based on science and research.

He also mentioned that the ministry is working on enhancing applied scientific research in the field of renewable energies through supporting specialized research, developing quality academic programs, and expanding cooperation with national and international institutions to localize technology, achieve integration between knowledge and national needs, and provide an attractive environment for investment in this sector.

The conference was attended by Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Amjad Badr, along with a group of academics, experts, and stakeholders in the energy sector, aligning with the state's efforts to promote renewable energy as a pillar of sustainable development.