The Pan African University Institute for Water and Energy Sciences including Climate Change (PAUWES) held its 8^th graduation ceremony on May 7^th in Tlemcen, Algeria, marking a historic milestone as the first cohort of graduates from the pioneering Climate Change Engineering program received their degrees.

The ceremony celebrated the achievements of 71 students from 32 African nations, comprising 42 male and 29 female graduates who completed intensive master's programs addressing critical sustainable development challenges facing the continent.

The event commenced with a welcome address remarks delivered by Prof. Mourad Meghachou, Rector of the University of Tlemcen; Mr. Youcef Bechlaoui, Wali (Governor) of Tlemcen; and Prof. Jean Koulidiati, Rector of the Pan African University.

A video presentation showcased the vibrant student life in Algeria, while cultural performances by the graduates highlighted the rich diversity represented in the cohort. A highlight of the ceremony was a theatrical production by the students, conveying a powerful message of African unity.

During the conferral of degrees and awards, the pioneering graduates of the Climate Change Engineering program were recognized for their groundbreaking work in developing solutions to pressing issues such as rising sea levels, extreme weather events, food insecurity, and ecosystem degradation across the continent.

In his address, Prof. Jean Koulidiati, Rector of the Pan African University, commended the graduates, stating "We encourage your active engagement in governance, entrepreneurship, and political leadership. We count on your productivity in the field and your competitiveness. Be grateful to the continent for the privilege you have had as scholars of the Pan African University, a dream for many."

Prof. Abdellatif Zerga, Director of PAUWES, delivered the closing remarks, offering words of encouragement and congratulations to the graduates, urging them to be builders of Africa and ambassadors of the Pan African University.

The ceremony was a testament to the Pan African University's commitment to fostering a new generation of African leaders equipped with cutting-edge knowledge and skills to drive sustainable socio-economic progress and address the continent's most pressing challenges.

As the graduates embark on new journeys, they carry with them the Pan African University's vision of an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa, managed by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force on the international stage.

At the sidelines of this major event was a meeting of Session Members of the Senate, who also graced the ceremony with their presence. The Senate serves as the governing council overseeing academic policies and programs driving sustainable progress through postgraduate training and research excellence.

For further information, please contact:
Ms. Claudette Chancelle BILAMPASSI MOUTSATSI | PAU- ESTI Communication Officer| Department of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation, African Union Commission| E-mail: BilampassiC@africa-union.org|| Tel: +251 115 517 700 | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Gamal Eldin Ahmed A. Karrar I Senior Communication Officer I Information and Communication Directorate (ICD), African Union Commission I Email: gamalk@africa-union.org

Information and Communication Directorate, African Union Commission I E-mail: DIC@africa-union.org
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