RENEW-MENA

Blog » Highlights of my training experience in the RENEW MENA Program | Blog by Mais Saleh

Highlights of my training experience in the RENEW MENA Program | Blog by Mais Saleh

Created Jul 11 2024, 10:06 AM by Iris Weges
  • Blog Posts

Highlights of my training experience in the RENEW MENA Program

In this blog, I will write about my internship experience at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources during my internship program at RENEW MENA. I spent a very exciting training period and learned a lot during that time. I benefited greatly from the valuable time spent with many experts in the field of energy, learning from both colleagues and supervisors.

In this blog, I will write about my internship experience at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources during my internship program at RENEW MENA. I spent a very exciting training period and learned a lot during that time. I benefited greatly from the valuable time spent with many experts in the field of energy, learning from both colleagues and supervisors.

I became familiar with the internal and external departments of the ministry and attended several meetings with experts and engineers from different sections. I worked on some tasks that developed my skills in report writing and making presentations.

 My interactions and presence throughout the ministry boosted my self-confidence and significantly improved many of my soft skills like teamwork, problem-solving abilities, time management, and my communication skills. I know that the last one so far is not what I aspire to, but I want you to be sure that there has been a big difference in my personality during these three months. However, I am confident that with continuous training, I can reach higher levels. One lady I met at the conference told me, "There's no problem as long as you acknowledge it's a problem. Just practice, and you can succeed, believe me." I can tell you it's one of the conversations that has deeply impacted me recently.

To be honest, I sometimes felt out of place because I am a science graduate, while everyone around me was either an energy engineer or an electrical engineer. This is why I mentioned earlier that exploring various departments of the ministry and understanding the goals of each department and the engineers working there, and getting to know more experts, increased my confidence.

Of the most important and prominent tasks I worked on was the Third National Energy Efficiency Plan for the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. I prepared brief presentations for each sector detailed in the plan, familiarized myself with the key indicators considered, and learned about the major projects it aims to achieve.

I also participated in preparing a matrix on sustainability, where I gained a comprehensive understanding of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). I focused particularly on goals 1 (No Poverty), 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), 13 (Climate Action), and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). These goals highlight critical areas for global development, addressing issues such as poverty alleviation, renewable energy adoption, climate change mitigation, and international cooperation to achieve sustainable outcomes. Another task I undertook was reviewing the Ministry's projects funded by the World Bank and learning about the Bank's key Technical Assistance (TA) initiatives in the energy sector, including the Green Hydrogen program. By the way, I attended its final workshop in Amman with Dr. Mohamed Kamh.

The workshop was insightful; I gained a deeper understanding of the Green Hydrogen program and Jordan's aspirations in this field. I also had the opportunity to meet new people and expand my network.

In another phase of my training, I had the opportunity to join the JRRREF team, where I was specifically involved in the Industrial Sector Energy Efficiency Program (ISEEP). Working closely with the team, I gained valuable technical insights into the implementation of energy efficiency technologies within the industrial sector. They provided me with comprehensive guidance, allowing me to actively contribute to various aspects of the project.

During my time with them, I participated in regular meetings where we discussed project milestones and strategies. I also played a key role in preparing for significant events, including the signing ceremony of agreements with industrial stakeholders benefiting from the program. This event, which was hosted and sponsored by the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources on June 11, 2024, highlighted the collaborative efforts and achievements of the program in enhancing energy efficiency across industrial operations.

 

Me with JREEEF Team at an Event with Industrial Stakeholders.

On May 20, 2024, the most significant event and highlight of my training was attending and participating in the second RENEW MENA conference, which was a completely different experience in my career journey. Being present at such a regional event for the first time in my life provided me with immense inspiration, naturally leaving a lasting impact that I will never forget. It has fueled my hopes for the future and significantly elevated my ambitions.

My experience as a speaker discussing the transition from study to work at such a conference had a significant impact on me and made me reconsider making new plans for my future. Being at this event was an enriching experience in itself.

Interacting with and meeting people from different countries with diverse backgrounds and experiences, and hearing their inspiring and sometimes challenging stories, gave me the motivation to continue and be productive in this field. This whole experience allowed me to discover new aspects of myself.

Mais, the science teacher whose role and engagement were primarily within the classroom, is now seriously considering furthering her studies and specializing in the energy field. She aspires to make a greater impact on society and play a larger role in driving change and making a difference.

Unfortunately, as a science graduate, I cannot continue in the energy field unless I specialize in it. Therefore, during this break, I will begin my journey to find the right course or path to start in so I can continue in the energy sector. I will try as much as possible to benefit from the network I gained during my training to guide me in this matter.

Many conversations impacted me, especially the personal experiences and challenges some experts went through. We talked more during the activities we did together throughout the conference. Thank you, RENEW MENA, for the thoughtful organization of the conference.

During our session, me and my colleagues Hajar and Sara

I would like to thank you for the entire experience and the great opportunity I had with you. It was three months, but for me, it was a unique experience that I will never forget. I am sure it will change my path as it has changed much of my thinking and broadened my horizons,

Thank you for placing me in the right training environment. The workplace was more than wonderful, and my supervisor, Engineer Lina Mobaideen, was an excellent mentor. She is a remarkable woman in her field and an outstanding team leader who always helped and supported me and fostered my growth in many ways. Under her supervision, I gained valuable insights into the industry and developed both professionally and personally. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to have been mentored by her.

I'm also very happy with the knowledge I gained from both Dr. Mohamed Kamh and Dr. Yousra Assaker, and others from the World Bank. I hope to meet with you again and join your team one day soon.

Written by Mais Saleh