Green skills programme empowering youth across South Africa

South Africa has been facing severe power shortages, leading to important reforms in the energy market. The government's decision to open up the electricity market has created opportunities for young people to enter the renewable energy sector. Nonjabulo Sokhela, CEO of NEPOWORX, shared insights on their work in training and empowering the youth in South Africa. NEPOWORX is an accredited renewable energy institution with a wide reach across South Africa. Specializing in green skills capacity building, the organization focuses on training individuals for roles in the renewable energy sector. Green skills refer to the workforce essential for renewable energy, including solar PV technicians, wind technicians, and more. The organization trains approximately 60 students per month, totaling to around 600 young individuals annually. Programs are designed in partnership with both private and public sectors, aiming to upskill youth for employment or entrepreneurship opportunities. NEPOWORX emphasizes inclusivity, with a focus on gender mainstreaming to ensure a balanced representation in the renewable energy sector. Under the Mercita program, which trains around 60 students, success rates have been impressive. Over 70% of students have graduated and ventured into sustainable enterprises. Partnering with WeEnergy, graduates receive opportunities for workplace experience and entrepreneurial growth. The organization has seen a surge in female participation, further enhancing diversity in the sector. To enroll in NEPOWORX programs, candidates need to meet specific criteria. While short courses are open to metric-passed individuals, longer courses require some electrical background. NEPOWORX offers a holistic training approach encompassing theoretical, practical, and workplace components to groom entrepreneurs and skilled professionals. Beyond practical skills, NEPOWORX equips students with additional modules on business registration and marketing, preparing them for entrepreneurial ventures. The renewable energy sector presents lucrative opportunities for entrepreneurs, with a high demand for accredited solar PV installers. Graduates have transitioned from working for organizations to establishing their own successful companies, indicating the financial viability of the sector. Income prospects in the renewable energy industry vary based on market segments and project sizes. Entrepreneurs can earn substantial income by installing solar systems for residential or commercial clients. Projects range from modest installations costing around 150,000 rand to large-scale corporate projects worth millions. With dedication, training, and market understanding, individuals can build sustainable businesses and comfortable livelihoods. NEPOWORX's green skills training program not only addresses the skills gap in the renewable energy sector but also serves as a catalyst for economic empowerment among South Africa's youth. By nurturing a new generation of green energy professionals and entrepreneurs, the organization is contributing to job creation and sustainable development in the country.