How Jordan is Educating Its Youth for a Renewable Future
In the heart of the Middle East, where the sun blazes for over 300 days a year, Jordan faces a painful paradox: despite abundant solar resources, the country remains heavily dependent on imported energy, with imported fuel accounting for most of its energy needs. This reliance costs the kingdom billions and leaves it vulnerable to regional instability. Yet, within this challenge lies an extraordinary opportunity—the power to harness natural resources through education and innovation. Recognizing this, Jordan has embarked on a transformative journey: powering its renewable future by elevating youth energy and environmental awareness through specialized education. This article explores how Jordan is cultivating a new generation of energy-literate leaders through innovative programs, international partnerships, and hands-on experiences.
Jordan imports approximately 93% of its energy needs, despite having abundant solar resources.
Jordan receives over 300 sunny days per year, with solar radiation levels among the highest in the world.
Jordan's commitment to renewable energy isn't merely infrastructural—it's educational. The country has recognized that sustainable energy transition requires more than just installing solar panels and wind turbines; it demands a fundamental shift in knowledge, skills, and public awareness, beginning with the youth.
The cornerstone of Jordan's renewable energy education strategy has been strengthening academic institutions and creating specialized programs. The German Energy Academy (GEA), established in 2021, represents a significant multinational effort involving the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), Jordan's Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action 1 .
The Academy collaborates with leading Jordanian institutions including Al Hussein Technical University (HTU), German-Jordanian University (GJU), Amman Chamber of Industry, and the Electric Training Centre of NEPCO 1 .
A groundbreaking initiative called the MUREE project (Modernising Undergraduate Renewable Energy Education) has been instrumental in transforming Jordan's educational approach 4 . Funded by the European Union's Tempus program, MUREE aimed to address the critical gap between formal education and industry needs in renewable energy.
The project introduced remote online laboratories that allow students across different universities to access specialized equipment and conduct experiments virtually 4 .
The MUREE project established a network of remote laboratories shared by Jordanian universities, creating an integrated system for practical renewable energy education. The technological infrastructure included:
The project developed six accredited online courses between 2013-2015, covering fundamental aspects of renewable energy 4 .
Data sourced from MUREE project implementation reports 4
The implementation of remote laboratories yielded significant educational benefits. The project demonstrated that technology-enhanced learning could effectively provide practical skills despite equipment limitations. The remote labs became "the link between different Jordan Universities and the main tool for teaching the different concepts related to renewable energies" 4 .
Jordan's renewable energy education extends far beyond formal classroom settings. The country has seen a surge in youth-focused climate initiatives that complement academic programs. In 2025, Middle East University hosted the Local Conference of Youth on Climate Change (LCOY Jordan 2025) under the patronage of Princess Dana Firas 5 .
The event brought together over 3,000 youth from across the kingdom alongside climate experts, ministers, and decision-makers 5 .
"Youth are pulse, strength and creativity capable of turning climate ambitions into tangible reality"
Grassroots initiatives have played a crucial role in spreading environmental awareness. Rahaf Abu Mayyaleh, a climate activist and consultant with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Jordan, has led interactive workshops across northern governorates, reaching over 200 individuals aged 18-50 8 .
These sessions focused on building practical, transferable skills that participants could use to lead change in their own communities.
"By focusing on skill-building, we are helping young people and women become active agents of resilience and sustainability in their communities"
| Tool Category | Specific Examples | Functions and Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Remote Laboratory Systems | RELab, Virtual Learning Environments | Enable distance access to real equipment; allow experimentation and data collection without physical presence 4 |
| Monitoring and Analysis Tools | Pyranometers, Anemometers, Data Loggers | Measure solar radiation, wind speed, and system performance; crucial for resource assessment and efficiency optimization |
| Simulation Software | PVsyst, HOMER, RETScreen | Model system performance, conduct feasibility studies, and optimize renewable energy system design |
| Hands-on Learning Kits | Solar PV Training Systems, Wind Turbine Kits | Provide practical experience with system installation, wiring, and troubleshooting |
Based on 2016 survey of senior engineering students in Jordan
Despite significant progress, studies have identified persistent challenges in renewable energy awareness among Jordanian students. A 2016 survey of senior engineering students revealed considerable gaps in understanding of renewable energy concepts and Jordan's energy situation .
The research found that while 95% of students recognized solar energy as the most important renewable resource for Jordan, understanding of other renewable forms was limited . Additionally, the study identified significant differences in knowledge levels between students at different universities, highlighting uneven educational quality across institutions .
A critical success factor has been strengthening connections between educational institutions and the renewable energy industry. The German Energy Academy's expansion includes a bilateral internship program that places young Jordanian professionals in German companies for several-month internships 1 .
Such initiatives provide invaluable real-world experience and help bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Jordan's journey toward comprehensive renewable energy education represents a powerful model for other sun-rich, energy-dependent nations. By combining formal academic programs with youth engagement initiatives and international partnerships, the kingdom is cultivating a new generation of energy-literate citizens.
Dedicated degrees and certifications in renewable energy fields
National conferences and community workshops building practical skills
Structured programs with European partners and global knowledge networks
The progress is tangible: from remote laboratories connecting universities, to youth climate conferences influencing national policy, to community workshops building practical skills at the grassroots level. As these educational efforts continue to expand and evolve, they equip Jordanian youth with not just knowledge, but the agency to transform their energy landscape.
| Indicator | Pre-2010 Status | Current Status (2025) | Future Outlook |
|---|---|---|---|
| University Programs | Limited specialized courses | Dedicated degrees and certifications | Expanding interdisciplinary programs |
| Practical Training | Equipment access barriers | Remote laboratories and industry internships | Increased industry-academia integration |
| Youth Awareness | Minimal structured initiatives | National conferences and community workshops | Curriculum integration at earlier education levels |
| International Partnerships | Limited cooperation | Structured programs with European partners | Expanding global knowledge networks |