Solar training foundation, Nepoworx Renewable Energy Institution, and skills development agency, the Manufacturing, Engineering, and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority (MerSETA), have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) for the launch of a nationwide green skills program in South Africa.
The program is designed to train and upskill South Africa’s youth as solar photovoltaic (PV) service technicians, equipping learners with the requisite qualifications to plan, design and install PV systems at solar plants and rooftop installations.
Ensuring long-term employment opportunities, the green skills program will also train participants to operate and maintain solar PV systems.
“As an institution, we advocate for a just transition that is focused on social inclusion and the creation of decent work and quality jobs,” stated Nepoworx CEO, Nonjabulo Sokhela, adding that, “Nepoworx’s mission is to develop green skills that are required to contribute towards the implementation of renewable energy targets under the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement program and private-sector-led embedded generation renewable energy projects.”
The company indicated that the recent removal by South Africa’s government of the licensing threshold for new embedded power generation projects has opened up new opportunities for the country’s youth to qualify as solar PV technicians.
The program, which will encompass knowledge, practical and work experience components, is expected to assist in alleviating South Africa’s staggering unemployment rate as well as the country’s ongoing energy supply shortages.
