The North-West University’s (NWU's) Unit for Continuing Education partnered with the Gauteng City Region Academy (GCRA) to launch a solar technician training programme.

Taking place on the Vanderbijlpark Campus, this four-week programme aims to empower young and unemployed individuals. It equips them with work readiness skills, technical expertise, and hands-on experience regarding installing, maintaining and troubleshooting solar panels.

According to Junior Mthimkhulu, manager of the Unit for Continuing Education at the Vanderbijlpark Campus, this programme will not only create employment opportunities for young people, but will also lend a hand in addressing the electricity challenges in South Africa.

He adds that the comprehensive course covers a wide range of topics, including safety training, the latest solar technologies and their applications, and preparation for the PV Green Card assessment. (The photovoltaic (PV) GreenCard has been developed to promote safe and high-quality solar PV installations.)

The training programme targets unemployed youth around Johannesburg, and 1 100 candidates have been selected across Gauteng. The first 100 trainees will undergo training until September next year, with the programme covering the course material, accommodation, food and transport. The candidates will be accommodated in the Vanderbijlpark area.

"This programme is a great example of how investing in education and training can benefit society as a whole. By empowering individuals to succeed, we can create a brighter future for everyone,” says Junior.

“The skills and experience these candidates will acquire will also help in addressing our electricity challenges and skills gaps. It is also a step in the right direction towards creating a sustainable and renewable energy future for South Africa. I am excited to see the positive impact that this programme will have in the province," he adds.

Trainees in the solar technician training programme attend an orientation session.