Inspiring Youth Towards Renewable Energy: Benchmark School Joins the Solar Schools Network

In a world where sustainable energy solutions are the key to a brighter future, Pakistan stands at a pivotal juncture. Faced with escalating energy demands amidst rapid urbanisation and economic growth, the need for change has never been more compelling. With development cooperation history of over 60 years, one of the priority areas of the Pakistan-German cooperation is to realise a ‘Just Energy Transition’ in Pakistan.

With the support of the German Federal Foreign Office (AA), GIZ Pakistan through the Pakistan-German Renewable Energy Forum (PGREF) has partnered with the Benchmark School in Islamabad to launch a pilot ‘Solar Schools’ project in Pakistan. This project aims to serve as a role model for other schools and communities to build upon as we move towards a clean, green, and sustainable energy future.

A Bright beginning: Integrating solar education in schools

The Solar Schools project, launched in collaboration with the Goethe Institute, has integrated the Benchmark School into the wider Solar Schools network. Under this project, a solar system has been installed at the school, which is tailored for educational purposes, and is geared towards raising awareness on renewable energy and climate change among the Pakistani youth.

The project's inauguration was attended by dignitaries from Pakistan and Germany, school management, students, teachers, and representatives from both the public and private sectors deeply committed to the cause of renewable energy.

Ayesha Abubakar, a student at Benchmark School is eager to benefit from this initiative.

“I am looking forward to learning how renewable energy can be so helpful in producing electricity with a one-time investment and how it can help Pakistan to overcome the energy crisis.”

What is the Solar Schools network?

The Solar Schools network, initiated by the German Federal Foreign Office (AA) in 2021, focuses on engaging young minds in renewable energy through hands-on learning experiences. Specially designed solar systems for educational purposes are installed by local technicians and integrated into the school's curriculum. Solar suitcases serve as catalysts for interactive physics experiments, sparking curiosity and discovery. Benchmark School now stands as the fifth institution to join this Network, alongside schools in Tashkent and Karshi in Uzbekistan, as well as Almaty and Astana in Kazakhstan.

Empowering the Pakistani youth to become renewable energy advocates

In Pakistan, the Solar Schools project aspires to kindle a passion for renewable energy, particularly in regions where awareness remains limited. By demonstrating the tangible benefits of sustainability through a working example of renewable technology within their school, students are offered a direct gateway to engage with the wonders of science.

Ms. Kulsoom Tanvir, Principal of Benchmark School, takes immense pride in being at the forefront of this endeavor:

"The idea behind this project is to engage the youth of Pakistan in the areas of climate change and renewable energy resources. We appreciate all our students, teachers, and project partners and hope to continue and build upon such projects in the future."

A Collaborative Approach to a Greener Tomorrow

The Solar Schools project in Pakistan is a joint initiative of AA, GIZ Pakistan, Goethe Institute, and the Private Power and Infrastructure Board. It transcends the mere generation of electricity for the school; it embodies a commitment to integrate renewable energy into the curriculum in a tangible, interactive, and inspiring manner.

At the launch event, Mr. Shah Jahan Mirza, Managing Director of the Private Power and Infrastructure Board, lauded the Benchmark School for becoming an inspiring part of the Solar Schools network, and urged other schools to embrace this remarkable initiative.

“The successful implementation of the Solar Schools Project can serve as a model project for other schools in Pakistan to integrate renewable energy into their education.”

About the Pakistan-German Renewable Energy Forum

The Pakistan-German Renewable Energy Forum (PGREF) supports Pakistani and German businesses to develop mutually beneficial cooperation for successful renewable energy and energy efficiency projects in Pakistan. It is a joint effort by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the Ministry of Energy (MoE) of Pakistan, who are also acting as chairs of the Steering Committee. The Forum is jointly operated by the Alternative Energy Development Board (AEDB) and GIZ Pakistan.