A week of practical solar energy training was launched in western Georgia, bringing photovoltaic education directly to students at three vocational colleges.

The training programme began at Horizonti College in Lanchkhuti, where participants took part in a two-day course led by a solar expert from the Eberhard Schöck Foundation. The programme then continued at Lakada College in Jvari, near the Enguri Dam, before concluding at Iberia College in Kutaisi.

During the two-day sessions at each college, students were introduced to the fundamentals of photovoltaic systems and gained hands-on experience with key elements of solar installation and system design.

The training covered the correct selection and sizing of photovoltaic system components, the calculation and design of mounting structures for rooftop installations, string planning, and essential safety requirements.

Practical exercises formed a major part of the programme. Using a dedicated solar training system, students carried out measurement and assembly tasks and observed how factors such as shading, orientation and module tilt affect the performance of photovoltaic installations. Participants also practised preparing and crimping solar connectors.

The training week represents another step in expanding practical renewable energy education within Georgia’s vocational education system and strengthening the technical skills of future specialists in the solar energy sector.

The programme was implemented in cooperation with the Ministry of Education, Science and Youth of Georgia and with the support of International Innovative Technologies / EUROSOLAR Georgia.

The activities form part of the wider effort to develop practical solar training capacities in vocational colleges across Georgia and to prepare students for employment in the growing renewable energy sector.