As the sun sets, Ibrahim Hassan climbs onto a roof to adjust solar panels that will provide clean electricity to a community center. Through ESDR’s technical training program, this 21-year-old has become the community’s go-to expert for electrical systems and renewable energy solutions.
Ibrahim’s fascination with electricity began when he helped install the first solar panel system in his area. “Seeing light come on for the first time in a place that had been dark was magical,” he remembers. “I knew I wanted to bring that magic to more places.”
His training covered electrical safety, wiring, solar panel installation, battery systems, and basic electronics repair. He learned to troubleshoot problems, maintain equipment, and design simple electrical systems for community needs.
Ibrahim now maintains electrical systems for schools, health centers, and community buildings. He’s installed solar lighting in dozens of homes and taught basic electrical safety to community members. His work has brought reliable, clean energy to areas that previously had limited access to electricity.
“Electricity isn’t just about convenience,” Ibrahim explains while testing a circuit. “It’s about opportunity. When children can study after dark, when health centers can operate equipment, when businesses can extend their hours—that’s when communities truly grow.” His dream is to establish a renewable energy cooperative that can serve the broader region with sustainable power solutions.
