The fourth edition of the YFEL German-Emirati Sustainability Days hosted in cooperation with Khalifa University successfully took place in the months of May and June 2024. Organized by the German Emirati Joint Council for Industry and Commerce (AHK) and supported by the German companies BASF, Linde, Siemens, and Wilo, the two-week initiative was designed to empower youth at driving sustainability solutions in the industry.
The opening ceremony featured notable attendees, including His Excellency Alexander Schönfelder, Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to the UAE, who delivered a welcome message and Yousof Alhammadi, Senior Vice-President of Academic Affairs and Student Services at Khalifa University, who emphasized the importance of sustainable development and the collective efforts to achieve a net-zero future. Dr. Ute Collier from the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) presented a keynote on ‘COP28 and Tripling Renewables.’ A panel discussion on ‘Advancing Green Technologies for a Decarbonized Future’ featured a meaningful discussion between high level representatives from the German partners.
Throughout the two weeks, YFEL members, alumni, and the broader Khalifa University community engaged in technical sessions, panel discussions, and workshops focusing on sustainability topics which also facilitated hands-on learning and knowledge exchange.
During the Closing Ceremony, Henrik Schult from Guidehouse presented a keynote on ‘The Emirati-German Energy and Climate Partnership – Paving the way to a net-zero future,’ which followed by an open and animated discussion between the YFEL members and Khalifa University community, with representatives from the four German partners. The event provided an opportunity for attendees to consolidate their learnings and discuss practical applications of the insights gained during the program. The participants shared innovative ideas and visions for the future of sustainability, covering topics such as renewable energy solutions, energy industry transformations, and regulatory incentives to accelerate the adoption of sustainable practices.
The YFEL German Emirati Sustainability Days is a unique initiative which strengthens the collaboration between UAE stakeholders and the German industry, and continues to highlight the collective commitment to driving a sustainable and decarbonized future.