The second awareness-raising meeting held in Balıkesir on December 15, 2022, served as a platform to foster dialogue and collaboration within the renewable energy sector. The event brought together representatives from the Operation Beneficiary South Marmara Development Agency, partner universities, the Technical Assistance Team (TAT), and various stakeholders from both the private sector and academia. These discussions highlighted the evolving needs of the renewable energy sector and the potential for increased synergy between industry and academia.

A primary focus in the meeting was on the skills and competencies required by employers, particularly in areas like wind, solar PV, and biogas technologies. Private sector representatives shared the challenges they face in recruiting and retaining qualified personnel and explored ways to address these issues through partnerships with educational institutions and targeted training programs. Employees also provided insights into the support and development they need to advance in this rapidly evolving field, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of workforce needs.

The meeting played a pivotal role in establishing sustainable cooperation mechanisms between renewable energy companies and universities. These partnerships emphasized the importance of internships, joint research projects, and knowledge-sharing platforms that bridge theoretical education with practical application. By facilitating collaborations, the event underscored the value of experiential learning for students and graduates, while providing companies with access to a skilled talent pool, ultimately driving growth and innovation in Türkiye’s renewable energy sector.