Schneider Electric, the global specialist in energy management, picked its first Energy University Hero in Saudi Arabia, through a nationwide competition that attracted over 680 students and engineers during the first half of 2013. The quarterly initiative seeks to award exemplary participation in the company's self-learning virtual program, Energy University. Since its regional inception in 2011, Energy University has witnessed unparalleled growth with registrations across the Gulf increasing by 105 per cent with 2,057 new users. The educational platform Energy University offers more than 150 online courses in energy efficiency and data center management focusing on infrastructure, industry, buildings, residential developments, and networks. Recognizing the need for catering to a largely Arabic speaking population, Schneider Electric rolled-out 10 courses in Arabic with plans to offer 15 additional courses in the language by end-2013. Schneider Electric Saudi Arabia named Staff Engineer Anwar Parvez the first Energy University Hero. Parvez successfully completed 31 courses over a span of 27 days with a perfect overall score of 100 percent to claim the prestigious title. Parvez also received an iPad mini and the opportunity to appear on Schneider Electric's social media and public relations channels. Courses completed by Parvez covered key energy fundamentals including efficiency, audit, issues, statistics, finance, procurement, conservation, and adoption of green practices. – SG
