A working meeting focused on the future of hydrogen technologies and their integration into the regional education system took place at the Moravian-Silesian Technological Academy (MTA) in Ostrava. Participants included MTA representatives Tomáš Olbert, Martin Kavan, Jonáš Grufík, and Jan Kelar, alongside the team of the Moravian-Silesian Hydrogen Cluster, led by its manager Vladimír Maryška.
Key Topics of Discussion
A central part of the agenda was a discussion on the Operational Programme Just Transition project, which involves the preparation of 12 strategic documents for the development of a so-called Hydrogen Valley in the Moravian-Silesian Region. This initiative also includes a plan for developing the education system, encompassing both formal and non-formal education.
The goals are to:
- identify intersections between the development of hydrogen technologies and education,
- design projects aimed at vocational secondary schools,
- ensure that young people, starting from secondary school, understand fundamentals such as the principle of electrolysis and the operation of hydrogen refueling stations.
Hydrogen as Part of Everyday Practice
The meeting also addressed the planned network of hydrogen refueling stations, which aims to cover the main transport routes in the Czech Republic by 2030. In the Moravian-Silesian Region, three stations are planned: in Ostrava-Vítkovice, Havířov, and on the premises of the Centre for Energy and Environmental Technologies (CEET) in Ostrava-Poruba.
Another topic of discussion was practical demonstrations for schools. A proposal was made for schools to assemble a model hydrogen station using refurbished parts or to utilize demonstration electrolyzers. In the future, schools may even be equipped with hydrogen vehicles.
EduBoxes and Safety
The cooperation will also expand the range of EduBoxes focused on hydrogen technologies. These are designed to introduce both teachers and students not only to the fundamental principles but also to the practical applications of hydrogen. Special emphasis will be placed on hydrogen safety, which is an essential part of preparing future professionals.
Conclusion of the Meeting
Representatives of the Moravian-Silesian Hydrogen Cluster and the Moravian-Silesian Technological Academy agreed that the systematic preparation of new specialists is essential for the successful development of hydrogen technologies.
