November 2025, Boshof Solar Power.
Strengthening early childhood development (ECD) services is key to building thriving communities. In Boshof and Hertzogville, 29 representatives from 11 local ECD centres have recently completed training in governance and management, equipping them with the tools to run their centres effectively and sustainably. This initiative also ensures that all participating centres now meet the Department of Basic Education’s ECD norms and standards.
The accredited training programme equipped participants with skills in operations, communication, financial management, programme development, compliance, and fundraising, including how to plan and implement effective funding strategies.
“The fundraising strategy was especially helpful, as we can now fundraise for specific purposes and know how to keep everything on record for future reference,” said Dipuo Victoria Modise, Secretary of Phunyeletso Day Care Centre in Hertzogville.
The training programme also ensures that centres comply with the amended Children’s Act of 2008, which strengthened national standards for child protection, early learning, and parental responsibilities. Held earlier this year over a two-week period, this forms part of Boshof Solar Power’s broader Early Childhood Development (ECD) programme, which also invests in practitioner training and vital infrastructure improvements to strengthen the quality of early learning in the community.
Facilitators reported that participants provided positive feedback sharing how they have gained a clearer understanding of their roles and responsibilities as members of a school governing body.
“Before, I was unsure of my full role and responsibilities as chairperson of our ECD centre. With this training, I now understand how to manage the centre effectively,” added Kgomotso Mofokeng, Chairperson of Kareehof Speelgroep in Boshof.
“It’s inspiring to see how this initiative has grown over the years. What began with a small group has now expanded to reach more ECD centres across Boshof and Hertzogville, benefiting hundreds of young children with better care, support, and early learning opportunities,” said Noluthando Mazibuko, Economic Development Specialist at Boshof Solar Power.
Representatives from the following ECD centres were included in this training: Bana Ba Rona; Kareehof Speelgroep; Kgatelopele ECD Centre; Kopano Pre-School; Leretlhabetse Educare Centre; Little Busy Bee Day Care Centre; Phunyeletso ECD; Relebogile ECD Centre; Thari Ya Mme Educare Centre; Tokologo ECD Centre and Tswharaganang Day Care Centre with the potential of more ECD Centre management teams receiving the training in the future.
November 2025, Konkoonsies Solar Power.
A small wood-cutting enterprise in Onseepkans is turning invasive alien trees along the Orange River into a sustainable source of firewood for the local community.
Run by cousins Roger and Nadine Josob, the business was established almost two years ago to meet residents’ need for a consistent and affordable supply of firewood for cooking and heating. Supported by funding to purchase new equipment and undergo essential health and safety training, the duo has achieved key business compliance milestones and continues to grow steadily. The Northern Cape Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment has also allocated specific tree stock to their enterprise, Synod, ensuring a reliable supply to meet market demand.
“Synod were selected to receive this funding after presenting an impressive proposal during a pitching session we held in 2023. Roger and Nadine’s enthusiasm and dedication to their community reflects our broader commitment to empowering local entrepreneurs, promoting economic self-sufficiency, and fostering safe working practices in rural communities,” shared Harrisinah Theka, Economic Development Manager at Konkoonsies Solar Power, a Pofadder-based solar power plant, which has provided this funding.
This grassroots SMME fulfils 20 to 30 orders of firewood to local community members, tourists and local camp sites each month, with a handful of additional orders received from customers outside of Onseepkans. The recent funding has allowed for the purchase of new woodcutting equipment, administrative equipment, First Aid and PPE supplies, along with training and compliance support from local service providers.
“Every little bit of help that we have received is a stepping stone on our journey to becoming a successful business. This boost means our dream to expand our supply to neighbouring towns and provide more permanent employment to our community, is within our reach,” shared business owner, Roger Josob.
“We can clearly see that with continued funding and economic development support this small business has the potential to increase its productivity significantly, as well as its capacity to employ more local labour,” concluded Theka.
October 2025, De Aar Solar Power and Droogfontein Solar Power.
A new reading programme has been introduced in local primary schools to help over 45 Northern Cape foundation phase educators guide learners beyond just sounding out words, towards truly understanding what they read. The programme provides teachers with training and classroom resources, while also encouraging regular collaboration with parents. By focusing on the practice of reading aloud, children are supported in developing both their reading skills and comprehension.
By using the method of reading aloud, children are guided in building both reading skills and comprehension. Implemented in isiXhosa, Afrikaans, and English, the programme is already reaching more than 5,000 children across the communities of Galeshewe and De Aar, with the first months focused on developing strong pre-reading skills.
The parent of a Grade 2 learner at Alpha Primary School, expressed how valuable she has found this programme to be for both her child and herself, “Back when I was at school, practicing reading was a challenge for me and my peers. I think if there had been more tools, like the hand puppets that we have been encouraged to use in our teaching, or extra reading classes available, it would have been much more fun for us, and when children have fun, they learn faster and better.”
With 81% of Grade 4 learners across our country unable to understand what they read (PIRLS, 2021), it is imperitive to bring practical training on how to integrate reading aloud into classrooms.
Working in partnership with ITEC, the initiative is part of the broader literacy and numeracy programmes funded by Droogfontein Solar Power and De Aar Solar Power through their community development initiatives. It is already running successfully in six community schools, reaching learners at Beacon Primary in Colville, Du Toitspan Primary in Beaconsfield, and Zingisa Primary in Galeshewe; alongside Kareeville Primary School, Alpha Primary School and Zingisani Primary School in De Aar.
A key feature is the regular sharing of learners’ progress between parents and teachers. Using instant messaging, families send daily voice recordings of children reading aloud with their parents. This simple approach has fostered strong commitment and active involvement from both families and educators.
“Extensive research has indicated that reading aloud to children builds and supports their listening and speaking abilities and enhances their overall language development, which the schools participating in this programme shared as significant challenges across the foundation phase,” shared Harrisinah Theka, Economic Development Manager at Droogfontein Solar and De Aar Solar Power funders of the programme.
Schools have received support and resources to establish in-classroom mini-libraries, further encouraging reading as part of daily life.
“Children who are exposed to great stories gain the ability to think clearly, express themselves confidently, and read with understanding. This is the ultimate goal of the three-year programme — to equip learners in our communities with the solid foundation they need to succeed as they move into high school and beyond,” added Theka.
The programme, which launched mid-July, is particularly impactful as learners are assisted according to their individual abilities, with special attention given to those who struggle.
October 2025, Klipheuwel Wind Farm.
A most recent intake of local talent from communities across the Overberg for a wind turbine technician training programme, aimed at equipping young people with the skills needed to support economic growth and address the shortage of technical expertise in the renewable energy sector, are set to commence their practical training at Klipheuwel Wind Farm this month.
The fact that the three trainees were selected from a pool of more than 150 applicants — all of whom held relevant NQF Level 4 qualifications or National Diplomas in fields such as Electrical, Mechatronics, and Fitters and Turners — highlights the depth of talent and potential among local youth in the area.
This year’s trainees who are the programme’s second intake, include Nomabathu Siyasanga (32), and Neoentle Maqetela (22), both from Caledon, along with Nozuko Mjeje (35) from Grabouw. Having completed the intensive six-month theoretical component of the course, they already recognise the value of the training. “This has been a game-changer for me. I’ve learned so much about renewable energy systems and the importance of safety and efficiency in wind turbine design. The course has given me valuable insights into the complex engineering behind harnessing wind energy. I’m excited to apply what I’ve learned in real-world situations and to contribute to a more sustainable future,” shared one of the trainees.
Trainees will receive an accredited Quality Council of Trades and Occupations (QCTO) Occupational Certificate: Wind Turbine Service Technician upon completion of the programme. The training, developed by the South African Renewable Energy Technology Centre (SARETEC), a division of the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), includes both theoretical and practical components.
The six-month course is followed by a two-month workplace experiential learning phase, taking place on site at Klipheuwel Wind Farm, providing these young electricians with real world experience.
Nonini Makhothe, Economic Development Specialist at Kliphuewel Wind Farm, highlighted the strong potential within the surrounding communities and the wind farm’s commitment to supporting more local technicians, commenting: “The success of the programme’s first year has shown us the incredible potential within our communities and the capability of our young people. What is even more encouraging is the strong number of applicants this year, which demonstrates their determination to be part of the renewable energy sector. Their achievements are truly inspiring, and we remain committed to this impactful programme, which is helping local technicians gain valuable skills, access opportunities, and build secure futures in the industry.”
The programme is open to applicants from the communities surrounding the wind farm, including Botrivier, Caledon, Grabouw, Genadendal, Tesselaarsdal, Riviersonderend, and Villiersdorp. All participants require prior qualifications, such as an NQF Level 4 in Electrician (Light Voltage, Medium Voltage, High Voltage), Mechatronics, Millwright, Fitters and Turners, or a National Diploma in Mechanical, Electrical, or Mechatronics.
September 2025, Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm.
Building on the success of a local wind turbine technician training programme, which launched in June last year, four new young trainees have completed the theory portion of their training, with their two months of practical on site training commencing this week.
Now in its second year, the programme has welcomed four young electricians: Simanyene Blouw (24), Lungelwa Magobiyana (30), and Siyamthanda Ngculu (31) from Humansdorp, together with Chuma Lugogwana (29) from Jeffreys Bay. Selected from more than 300 applicants, they are part of the initiative funded by Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm.
Siyamthanda Ngculu, one of the three female trainees, explained how the programme combines electrical, mechanical and hydraulic theory she has learned in the classroom, to a real life environment, “This training combines my classroom knowledge with hands-on practice in troubleshooting and servicing electrical systems. I look forward to the opportunity to learn how turbines operate, practice maintenance on real components, and develop essential safety skills such as working at heights and performing emergency rescues.”
Trainees will receive an accredited Quality Council of Trades and Occupations (QCTO) Occupational Certificate: Wind Turbine Service Technician upon completion of the programme. The training, developed by the South African Renewable Energy Technology Centre (SARETEC), a division of the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), includes both theoretical and practical components. The six-month course is followed by a two-month workplace experiential learning phase, which will take place on site at Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm, providing these young electricians with real world experience.
Nonini Makhothe, Economic Development Specialist at Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm, highlighted the strong potential within the surrounding communities and the wind farm’s commitment to supporting more local technicians, commenting: “The success of this programme’s first year has shown us just how much potential there is within our communities, and just how capable our young people are. Even more encouraging is the number of young people who applied this year, demonstrating their determination to be part of the renewable energy sector. Their success has inspired us to keep expanding the programme, so that even more local technicians can gain skills, find opportunities, and secure futures in this industry.”
The year’s group follow on from last year’s intake, which included two female electricians, both from Humansdorp community. They recently graduated and are hopeful to take up positions in the industry, carrying this additional qualification with them as they build their careers
The Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm’s Wind Turbine Technician Training Programme is open to applicants from the communities surrounding the wind farm, including Thornhill, Jeffreys Bay, Humansdorp, Hankey, Patensie, and Lourie. All participants require prior qualifications, such as an NQF Level 4 in Electrician (Light Voltage, Medium Voltage, High Voltage), Mechatronics, Millwright, Fitters and Turners, or a National Diploma in Mechanical, Electrical, or Mechatronics.
September 2025, Aries Solar Power.
In the ZF Mgcawu district of the Northern Cape, where the need for more educators remains pressing, initiatives that invest in educator development are creating real opportunities for change. One such initiative is a community bursary programme that is supporting 19-year-old Aaliyah Selborne in pursuing her studies, equipping her with the skills she needs to one day strengthen education in her hometown of Kenhardt.
As one of more than 12 local youth supported by this bursary to date, Aaliyah is in her first year of studying for a Bachelor of Education (Intermediate Phase) through the University of South Africa. Inspired by her grandmother and aunts, who have been educators for over 20 years, she developed a passion for teaching and recognised how valuable education is to bringing positive change in her community.
“Once I have completed my studies, I look forward to being a passionate educator, providing a strong foundation of educational support in my hometown. I attended both Kenhardt Primary School and Kenhardt High School and would love to see myself back in those classrooms,” shared Aaliyah when asked about her vision for the next five years.
The Aries Solar Power bursary programme covers Aaliyah’s tuition fees, book allowances, travel and accommodation costs, as well as day-to-day expenses through a stipend, which is particularly valuable as she is studying full-time. “The bursary has eased any financial burden, but most importantly, it has allowed me to follow in my family’s footsteps,” added Aaliyah.
“We are encouraged to see young, passionate students like Aaliyah taking the initiative to apply for bursary funding. Especially when she not only learned about the programme through her own research but also through the experiences of past beneficiaries and community engagements. This shows how the support we provide continues to reach and motivate local youth to pursue tertiary education,” commented Harrisinah Theka, Economic Development Manager at Aries Solar Power.
Since its launch over five years ago, this bursary programme has been an important resource for students from the Kenhardt area, investing in their educational journeys and helping to shape a brighter future for local families.
September 2025
Audrey Molalakgotla, owner of Lala’s Poultry in Senwabarwana Village, has grown her business through grit and determination, drawing on her formal training in agricultural management. Despite challenging economic conditions, she operated from an informal setup for five years before successfully relocating to a nearby 1-hectare stand with support from a local enterprise development programme. The move enables increased egg production to meet rising demand and creates a foundation for future expansion, product diversification, and job creation.
“The business shows strong growth potential and is positioned to create both permanent and seasonal employment in the area. This is exactly the kind of operation we aim to support through our programme, which offers a holistic approach to small business development,” commented Noluthando Mazibuko, Economic Development Specialist for Soutpan Solar Power, one of the four partners collaborating on this programme.
Support provided to Lala’s Poultry, in addition to securing suitable land, includes the installation of a borehole for reliable water access, building of a poultry house, and fencing to keep the property secure – all essential for sustainable, disease-free poultry farming.
“Without a reliable water supply, it’s nearly impossible to run a poultry business—especially in such a hot area. Water is critical for the birds’ hydration and hygiene. Thanks to the borehole, I can now maintain steady egg production, improve the sustainability of my business, and work towards supplying local supermarkets,” said Audrey Molalakgotla.
Audrey’s National Diploma in Agricultural Management has shaped the way she runs Lala’s Poultry, enabling her to operate more professionally and sustainably. She plans to build on this foundation with further management training later this year, supporting her vision to expand the business with additional hatcheries and an abattoir.
“Lala’s Poultry is driven by a motivated and dedicated entrepreneur who has shown resilience in difficult economic conditions. With the potential to create up to 10 new jobs, this business exemplifies how targeted support can unlock true economic development in communities,” added Mazibuko.
Audrey is one of 17 beneficiaries of Soutpan Solar Power’s collaborative Youth Entreprenuership Development Programme. The programme is delivered in partnership with Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism (LEDET), Department of Rural Development, and Blouberg Local Municipality.
September 2025.
Newly published research on early childhood development (ECD) performance in the Northern Cape, paints a markedly improved picture compared to findings from the past three years. Commissioned by two solar plants in Kimberley and De Aar, the study assessed a sample of children aged four to five, and its encouraging results have earned formal commendation from the Northern Cape Department of Basic Education (NCDOE).
“We greatly appreciate and welcome the contribution that these two solar plants have made, in continuing to seek ways to strengthen early learning, with a special focus on ECD, in the Northern Cape Province. Research initiatives of this nature can only strengthen ECD services through quality assurance and identification of gaps in the sector,” shared NCDOE Directors, Basie Mathane and Mercia Fanie.
Using the Early Learning Outcome Measure, the study assessed children across five developmental domains, with the following results: Gross Motor Development, 89% are on track; Emergent Literacy and Language, 88% are on track; Cognitive & Executive Functioning, 82% are on track; Emergent Numeracy & Mathematics, 77% are on track and Fine Motor Co-ordination & Visual Motor Integration, 60% are on track.
Commenting on the results, Tandaza Teka, Economic Development Specialist for both Droogfontein Solar Power and De Aar Solar Power, said, “The 2022 ‘Thrive by 5 Index’ reported that only 37.4% of children in the Northern Cape were developmentally on track, with the remainder either behind or far behind. The results of our research study are encouraging for the future, considering that we’ve managed to achieve an over 40% overall increase in only three years.”
The solar plants’ ECD programmes form part of their broader socio-economic development commitment to prioritising quality education, particularly in early learning, as a foundation for long-term success.
Adding to the impact of this investment into ECD in the province, the NCDOE noted, “This initiative also contributes towards the attainment of universal access to quality ECD, prioritising the most vulnerable children, as proposed by the South African Government in its vision and impact statement for 2030.”
These ECD performance assessments were conducted across several months in 2024 by accredited and independent assessors, and facilitated by Custoda Trust, a registered and accredited training and development service provider. The full reports are available on the plant websites here: https://deaarsolar.co.za/childrens-readiness-report/ and https://droogfonteinsolar.co.za/childrens-readiness-report/
Request for quotations | Supplier Development, Northern Cape
Our Red Sands project in !Kheis Local Municipality, Northern Cape invites qualified and experienced service providers to submit proposals for the development and implementation of a supplier development programme.
RFQ’s should be submitted on or before 29 August 2025 at 16:00 pm.
RFQ’s should be sent to: glen.berkat@globeleq.co.za and copy to nonini.makhothe@globeleq.co.za
August 2025, Konkoonsies Solar Power.
Over 500 learners from communities across the Khai-Ma municipal area were given access to professionals, tertiary institutions, and structured future-planning activities at an event held 31 July 2021 in Aggeneys, designed help guide their academic and future career aspirations.
Initiated by a group of solar power plants that support local communities through their overarching socio-economic development programmes, the career expo was further strengthened through collaboration with key stakeholder groups including tertiary institutions, NGOs and industry professionals.
Hosting three local schools and reaching learners from Grade 9 to 12, this annual event once again sought to provide learners with direct exposure to a wide range of career paths, tertiary study opportunities, and structured guidance—helping them make informed decisions that will influence their futures.
“Learners in rural areas like ours often have limited access to real-world career exposure and post-school information. This often leads to low motivation, uncertainty about academic purpose, and high drop-out rates, which is why initiatives like this expo are so critical” explained Harrisinah Theka, Economic Development Manager at Konkoonsies Solar Power, one of the initiatives five funders.
Commenting further on the importance of the expo, she added, “The career expo is not only about sharing information, but also offers tangible tools, role models, and experiences that help learners connect their academic journey to a meaningful future.”
New to this year’s expo was a Vision Board Station where learners were encouraged to creatively express their values, dreams, and goals, helping to internalise their career ambitions in a personal and visual way.
“We are deeply grateful for this annual career expo. It offers our learners hope, vision, and real guidance. When they see professionals and universities engaging with them directly, they begin to believe in their potential,” commented Mr. Muller, Principal of Boesmanland High School.
