Abu dhabi: Khalifa University of Science and Technology recently celebrated the graduation of 50 members from its Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) outreach programme during its 16th annual graduation ceremony. This marks the culmination of year-long commitments designed to cultivate youth leadership in sustainability.
According to Emirates News Agency, the YFEL programme, established in 2010, has grown into a well-recognized platform both nationally and internationally for fostering leadership in sustainability and energy. The alumni network has expanded to include 680 members who are contributing across various sectors such as academia, industry, entrepreneurship, and public service.
Dr. Waleed Alameri, Associate Provost for Student Affairs and Associate Professor of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering at Khalifa University, emphasized the significance of graduating the 2025 cohort, noting that sustainability has transitioned from a distant goal to an immediate responsibility. He highlighted the university's focus on empowering young individuals to understand and address global challenges, underscoring the value of collaboration among universities, industry, government, and international partners.
The 2025 YFEL programme introduced a structured three-phase framework that led participants from foundational learning to practical application. Phase I focused on establishing a strong base in energy systems, sustainability, and climate science. Phase II involved hands-on projects in renewable energy, climate solutions, and emerging technologies. Phase III concentrated on leadership and real-world application, encouraging participants to lead multidisciplinary teams and achieve concrete results.
A notable highlight of the 2025 YFEL journey was the 5th Edition of the German-Emirati Sustainability Days. This event highlighted collaboration between academia, industry, and international bodies, demonstrating the synergy of German engineering, Emirati ambition, and youth-driven innovation in addressing global sustainability challenges.
Throughout the programme, the 2025 YFEL cohort showcased projects aimed at tackling significant sustainability and energy issues in the region.