University of the Punjab (UoP), Lahore has signed a memorandum of understanding with China’s Weifang University and the New Energy Industry Association to promote education, research and workforce development in the new energy sector.

The agreement aims to explore joint academic programs, technical training and industry-linked research in areas including solar photovoltaics, energy storage, battery technology, power electronics, electric mobility and charging infrastructure, Gwadar Pro reported.

The signing ceremony was held at the office of the UoP Vice-Chancellor, attended by Pro Vice Chancellor Mahmood Saleem, the Director of Weifang University’s International Student Administration Office and Chairman of the New Energy Industry Association and others.

Under the proposed cooperation, the three institutions will explore the possibility of launching a joint undergraduate program in new energy engineering or technology, potentially adopting collaborative teaching models.

The partnership will also cover curriculum development, faculty training, professional education and short-term certificate courses in emerging new energy technologies.

Opportunities to learn Chinese will also be offered to participating students and faculty members.

To strengthen links between academia and industry, the partners plan to explore internships, industrial visits, expert lectures and career guidance for students.

Joint research projects, laboratory development, practical training facilities, seminars, workshops and conferences are also envisaged under the agreement.

Mahmood Saleem said the proposed partnership would combine academic expertise, international educational cooperation and industry engagement to support Pakistan’s emerging new energy sector.

He said stronger links between universities and industry would help prepare skilled graduates, expand practical training opportunities and promote applied research in new energy technologies.

Weifang University and the New Energy Industry Association also expressed their commitment to exploring sustainable cooperation opportunities to support education, workforce development, research and technological advancement in Pakistan’s new energy sector.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China