April 2025, Konkoonsies Solar Power.
Eight young people from the Northern Cape town of Pella are taking part in a specialised millwright training programme designed to improve their employment prospects in local industries. The three-year programme combines classroom-based learning with hands-on experience and is aligned with the needs of sectors such as mining and renewable energy, which are active in the region.
Funded by Konkoonsies Solar Power, the initiative forms part of a broader effort to tackle youth unemployment and increase access to industry-relevant skills within the community. The programme, which started in mid-2024, includes practical training in partnership with local mining houses and supports long-term workforce development within the Khai-Ma Local Municipality.
One of the eight participants is a young woman, reflecting efforts to encourage broader inclusion in trades traditionally dominated by men. The training is delivered by Afrika Skills Training College South Africa, based in Pofadder.
Millwrighting involves the installation, maintenance, and repair of stationary industrial machinery, with applications across sectors including mining, manufacturing, and state-owned enterprises. As industrial operations increasingly rely on electro-mechanical equipment and electronic controllers, the need for qualified artisans continues to grow.
Harrisinah Theka, Economic Development Manager at Konkoonsies Solar Power, explained the rationale for the programme: “With several mining operations in the area, there’s a clear need for local skills development. This programme aims to close that gap and ensure that community members are better positioned to access employment opportunities close to home.”
The programme is expected to benefit the broader community by increasing the number of skilled local youth, making it easier for nearby employers to hire locally.
Participant Charlton Basson encouraged others from this area to take initiative, saying, “I would encourage young people in my community to actively seek out growth opportunities. Don’t be afraid to try something new or step outside your comfort zone.”
Participants were selected through a collaboration between Konkoonsies Solar Power, Lima Rural Development Foundation, and local mining houses operating within the Khai-Ma Local Municipality. Selection was coordinated via the incubation office in Pella.
Upon completion of the current three-year cycle, a second group of eight trainees will be selected, with plans to expand the programme to other communities, including Onseepkans and Pofadder.
April 2025, Boshof Solar Power.
Active community engagement and a growing public-private partnership between Tokologo Local Municipality and Boshof Solar Power are helping to expand access to tertiary education in the region. More learners from Boshof and Hertzogville are now applying for and receiving bursaries to further their studies.
This progress follows several years of low uptake due to a shortage of qualifying applicants. In response, Boshof Solar Power implemented targeted support measures, including a year-end initiative to assist learners with university applications. These efforts were strongly supported by the Municipality, particularly through its Local Economic Development (LED) office.
“Public-private partnerships like this are vital,” said Winky Nkokoana, LED Co-ordinator at Tokologo Local Municipality. “As local government, we don’t always have the reach or resources to meet all community needs. Through collaboration, we can support small enterprises, invest in early childhood development, and now—create access to tertiary education.”
Amid limited job prospects in the area, many young people are actively seeking study opportunities.
“In addition to our support initiatives, we find that learners are genuinely eager to pursue further studies—particularly when unemployment is the alternative,” said Noluthando Mazibuko, Economic Development Specialist at Boshof Solar Power. “The decline in local business activity has left many young people discouraged. Programmes like this one offer direction and hope.”
Nkokoana also highlighted the importance of promoting both tertiary education and vocational training. “Tertiary studies build skills needed to navigate life and work, such as critical thinking and communication. We also need to encourage young people to consider TVET colleges, which offer technical skills in high demand and pathways to self-employment.”
In 2025, the bursary programme will support its highest number of recipients since launching in 2021, with four new bursaries awarded. The programme provides financial support for tuition, accommodation, books, and a stipend, along with mentoring and academic guidance.
The 2025 bursary recipients are pursuing a diverse range of studies at leading institutions across the country. They are Bernice Tshiamo Segopolo – Bachelor of Commerce in Law (STADIO); Ntando Vuyo Kalitshana – BSc Medical Laboratory Science (Central University of Technology); Nonhlanhla Lucia Geweldt – BA International Relations (UNISA); and Elrio Hendriks – Tourism Management (Vaal University of Technology).
The high levels of unemployment in the Free State highlight the urgent need for sustainable development and education initiatives, such as the Boshof Solar Power bursary programme, to empower youth and support long-term opportunity. Between 2022 and 2025, the province lost over 140,000 jobs, with the unemployment rate rising to 38% by early 2024—the third highest in the country.
April 2025, Droogfontein Solar Power.
In early childhood, children need a safe, nurturing, and enriching environment that supports their physical, emotional, and cognitive development. In line with this, a group of Early Childhood Development (ECD) Practitioners recently graduated from Droogfontein Solar Power’s ECD training programme, contributing to the ongoing commitment to improving the quality of early childhood education in the Northern Cape.
“This graduation marks a step forward in strengthening early childhood education in the province, ensuring that young learners receive the foundational skills needed for lifelong learning and success. We remain committed to supporting education and training initiatives that uplift local communities,” said Thandaza Teka, Economic Development Specialist for Droogfontein Solar Power.
The graduation ceremony, held at Alpha Hall in Ulco, saw eight ECD practitioners graduate alongside 34 others from across the province. “This programme taught me patience, effective communication, and most importantly, a deep love for children. The joy of young children makes me proud of the work I do because it is valuable. Taking part in this training was a privilege, and helped improve my ability to nurture and support children’s development,” expressed Agrienette Madondo, one of the graduates from Sivuyile ECD Centre.
The event was attended by esteemed stakeholders, including representatives from the Premier’s Office, the Northern Cape Department of Education, key stakeholders, funding partners and programme implementers. Personal guests of the graduates also joined the celebration, along with representatives from Droogfontein Solar Power.
“Our goals for any community are development and progress for children, as well as achieving skills and qualifications for the future workforce. Any business working within communities should align with these goals to enhance the knowledge and skills of young children in the Northern Cape,” said Mrs. Huldah Barnard, Director of Custoda Trust, programme implementation partners.
48 graduates simultaneously received their NQF Level 5 Higher Certificate in Early Childhood Development at the same event, a notable achievement in advancing their professional skills and a boost to the region.
April 2025, De Aar Solar Power.
After more than two years of intensive study, two dedicated ECD practitioners from the Pixley ka Seme municipal district, Siphokazi Jack and Suney Mouton, were awarded their NQF Level 4 Further Education and Training Certificate in Early Childhood Development.
“Our ECD Practitioner Training Programme aims to build capacity among local practitioners, ensuring that children receive high-quality early childhood education, which is fundamental for their long-term success,” said Thandaza Teka, Economic Development Specialist for De Aar Solar Power, funders of this training programme.
By supporting the professional development of practitioners, the solar plant is actively contributing to the long-term improvement of early education in the Northern Cape. This initiative aligns with the broader goal of empowering local educators and ensuring that children across the province receive the best possible start to their educational journey.
“The training was really helpful for me because I have learned so much about the holistic development of children. The part about observation was especially valuable for understanding where a child may be lagging in a developmental milestone. Our centre has improved a lot thanks to the implementation of the programme, and I see daily how children develop, which inspires me most about teaching,” said Siphokazi Jack, one of the graduates who works at Ikhaya Labantwana ECD Centre in De Aar.
The graduates were honoured at a special ceremony alongside nearly 100 other ECD practitioners across NQF Levels 4 and 5. The event was attended by representatives from the Premier’s Office, the Northern Cape Department of Education, and key stakeholders, further highlighting the importance of strengthening ECD across the province.
“Our goals for any community are development and progress for children and achieving skills and qualifications for the future workforce. Any business working within communities should align with these goals to enhance the knowledge and skills of young children in the Northern Cape,” concluded Mrs. Huldah Barnard, Director of Custoda Trust, the programme’s implementation partner.
March 2025, Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm.
Recognising that psychosocial challenges are barriers to education and other community development initiatives, Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm continues to invest in learner and youth awareness programmes across the Kouga Municipality. Support extends to the Humansdorp, Hankey, and Thornhill Victim Support Centres, as well as long-term beneficiary, the Jeffreys Bay Trauma Support Centre, the only NPO in this area providing professional therapy and counselling services.
These initiatives form part of the wind farm’s commitment to supporting holistic community development, ensuring that local children and youth have the necessary skills to navigate complex social issues.
As part of this Psychosocial Support Programme, Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm recently funded a youth empowerment awareness event in Hankey. This event, held at the Hankey Sports Fields, was a collaborative effort with key community organisations.
Over 200 children participated, comprising 54 Grade RR learners and 154 Grade 7 learners. The event aimed to equip them with coping strategies and life skills relevant to their age groups.
Grade RR learners took part in activities designed to address issues such as parental substance abuse and domestic violence. A theatrical performance engaged the children in a relatable manner, followed by discussions to reinforce key messages. Sets of emotion-themed cards were provided to crèche teachers as a tool to continue these discussions in a supportive environment.
Grade 7 learners explored the theme ‘Change Does Not Need to Be Scary’ through role-playing different parenting styles—angry, safe, and dominant. These activities sparked discussions about emotional responses and personal experiences, helping learners develop healthy coping strategies and resilience. These learners additionally received educational materials on emotional expression, managing change, and communication skills.
Sergeant Salinda James from SAPS spoke to learners about their rights and self-respect, while the Department of Social Development led a listening exercise, giving children a safe space to share their thoughts.
“This campaign underscores the collective commitment of the participating organisations to empower and support the youth in navigating complex family dynamics and personal development,” said Maryke Pretorius, Project Manager at Jeffreys Bay Trauma Support Centre.
Part of Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm’s Economic Development Programme, the Psychosocial Support Programme has received positive feedback from learners, parents, and teachers. Participants gained insight into different emotional responses and the importance of being heard, with discussions on self-respect, teachers, and parents especially well received.
March 2025, De Aar Solar Power.
Two of the three Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres in the small village of Greyton have undergone significant upgrades, improving learning environments for children aged 2–5. These projects, part of Klipheuwel Wind Farm’s ECD support programme, include infrastructure enhancements, practitioner training, and regulatory and compliance support to strengthen their long-term sustainability.
On Friday, 6 December 2024, Greyton Speelsentrum officially unveiled its newly refurbished and expanded facilities, earning full registration from the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and compliance with local municipal health and safety bylaws. Registration with the DBE ensures the centre can access government stipends, safeguarding its operations and securing local jobs. “It was imperative that this centre obtained registration. It ensures financial stability, improves the quality of education, and retains jobs within the community,” said Nonini Makhothe, Economic Development Specialist at Klipheuwel Wind Farm.
Greyton Speelsentrum now accommodates 55 children, more than doubling its previous capacity of 25. The upgrade includes two new classrooms with disability ramps, a dedicated ablution block with child-friendly facilities, and a disabled-access toilet. This expansion addresses previous challenges, including overcrowding and the need to separate age groups, as required by ECD norms and standards.
The project was completed by a local contractor, creating employment opportunities for workers in the community.
Since launching in June 2022, Klipheuwel Wind Farm’s ECD programme has made a tangible impact. Greyton Speelsentrum is the second centre to benefit, following the renovation of Vrolike Vinkies Daycare Centre last year. The programme also supports practitioner development, with the first cohort of practitioners completing NQF Level 4 training.
Established in 1982, Greyton Speelsentrum has served the community for over four decades. It employs three staff members, including two teachers and a cook. With the upgrades, the centre plans to hire an additional ECD practitioner and assistant, further supporting the local economy.
“We now have the space and resources to educate and stimulate more children,” said Myrtle Benjamin, Principal of Greyton Speelsentrum. “Our finances will grow, allowing us to improve our services and provide more opportunities for local employment.”
Representatives from the Western Cape Education Department, Theewaterskloof Municipality, Elgin Learning Foundation, local Rotary, Genadendal Moravian Church, Greyton Primary School, and other stakeholders attended the handover, marking this milestone for Greyton’s future.
“ECD centres play a critical role in providing children with a safe and supportive environment, building a foundation for their future growth and success. By investing in these centres, we are contributing to the long-term wellbeing and prosperity of our communities,” concluded Nonini Makhothe.
February 2025, De Aar Solar Power.
Samantha Moses (41), a Reading Coach from De Aar, is preparing to graduate with her Diploma in Grade R Teaching in the middle of this year, bringing her one step closer to realising her dream of making a difference in her community by applying her skills and dedication as a teacher working in Early Childhood Development (ECD).
A journey made possible through a bursary rewarded by De Aar Solar Power; Samantha encourages others in her community who aspire to become teachers but may feel uncertain about taking the first step. “You have to have a passion – you can’t become a teacher if you are not passionate. We are working with gentle souls; we need to give them something to look forward to. When you step into that classroom, you have to be prepared to give them your best,” she said.
With financial support from the Bursary Programme, which assists students in Hanover, Britstown, Philipstown, and De Aar, Samantha was able to focus entirely on her studies without the financial burden. The programme not only eased financial stress but also opened the door for her to consider furthering her education. She now plans to pursue a Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase at SANTS, starting as a second-year student due to credits from her diploma. She aims to complete her degree in three years instead of four.
Driven by her passion for teaching, Samantha hopes to inspire change in her community. “I want to have conversations that matter. I want to encourage parents to get involved in their children’s education, ensuring they attend school and understand the importance of learning,” she explained.
Her dedication to education stems from her experience as a Reading Coach at Kareeville Primary School, a role she has held since 2017, as part of the solar plant’s overarching education programme. While she has applied for Grade R teaching positions, she is still seeking an opportunity to take up a formal teaching role.
Thandaza Teka, Economic Development Specialist for De Aar Solar Power, expressed the solar plant’s support for students like Samantha. “Through our bursary programme, we aim to foster a culture of learning, equipping community members with knowledge—the foundation of sustainable livelihoods,” he said.
Samantha’s experiences in education have deepened her understanding of the socio-economic challenges in her community. “Some children don’t come to school because they lack food, and others because their parents do not prioritise education. Previously, while working at a bank, I wasn’t aware of these struggles, but now I see the impact first-hand.”
Her studies have reinforced the importance of play in early learning, ensuring that children remain engaged in their lessons. “It is important to put in the effort and keep lessons interesting,” she shared.
A defining moment during her practical training reaffirmed her passion for ECD. “Some of the children rely on the school feeding scheme as their only source of food. One day, I bought a packet of chips to share with them, and it made me realise the importance of generosity and community. We don’t have everything, but what we do have, we should share.”
As Samantha prepares to embark on the next phase of her educational journey this year, she remains hopeful about securing a Grade R teaching position in her community, where she can make a lasting impact on young learners and their families.
January 2025, Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm.
One of the key factors for South Africa’s economic growth is the success of entrepreneurs. Small businesses, especially black-owned and black women-owned enterprises, play an important role in driving economic inclusion, creating jobs, and supporting financial stability. Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm’s Enterprise Development Programme highlights the value of this support, helping local SMMEs grow and become sustainable, as demonstrated by Kruisfontein-based co-op, Siyavuma Piggery.
Established in 2011 and specialising in piggery production since 2018, Siyavuma aims to operate a sustainable 100-sow unit to produce piglets for the local meat market. Their mission is to achieve both profitability and sustainability by following best practices in animal husbandry and environmental management, prioritising the responsible care of animals to ensure their welfare and productivity.
With Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm’s support since 2023, Siyavuma Piggery has already seen transformational changes. Key interventions include the construction of a fully operational farrowing house, the procurement and installation of specialised farrowing equipment, the development of a waste management dam, and skills training in areas such as financial management, business operations, and marketing.
“One of the key factors for the future growth of South Africa’s economy lies in the success of entrepreneurs,” says Nonini Makhothe, Economic Development Specialist at Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm. “Through programmes like this, we assist SMMEs annually to become financially and operationally independent. By creating sustainable small businesses, we build stronger economic structures and help reduce unemployment, particularly in the Kouga Local Municipality.”
For Siyavuma Piggery, the impact of this partnership is significant, to the point that the long term goal of expanding into cattle and beef production is not merely a dream.
“With the help of Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm, we were able to build a farrowing house,” explains Mr Marvin Witbooi, Chairman of Siyavuma Piggery. “This will help us reduce our mortality rate by about 90%, which is life-changing for our business. Improving survival rates means better profitability and allows us to secure a sustainable future for our piggery.”
As Siyavuma Piggery progresses toward its goals, it serves as an inspiring example for aspiring entrepreneurs and small businesses in the Eastern Cape. Through initiatives like these, Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm is fostering economic resilience and community upliftment. Now in the third and final year of the programme (2025), the five co-op members—comprising two men and three women—will continue to benefit from further skills development, as well as business and financial management training. Additionally, the piggery provides temporary employment to three local community members, further extending its positive impact.
November 2024, Soutpan Solar Power.
Six Early Childhood Development (ECD) practitioners from rural communities in Limpopo have successfully completed their NQF Level 4 qualifications, marking a significant milestone in Soutpan Solar Power’s ECD development programme. The practitioners, who represent villages including Witten, Indermark, Marobjane, Ga-Machaba, Rammutla B, and Marobjana, were honoured at a graduation ceremony held in Polokwane last month.
The event was attended by members of the Mankweng ECD Cluster Committee, representatives from ETDP-SETA, ECD forum members from the Polokwane area, and Soutpan Solar Power, as funders of the six practitioners. In addition to these graduates, several self-funded practitioners also completed their NQF Level 4 training, further highlighting the achievements of the broader ECD community.
Salphina Sigida, a 45-year-old practitioner at Thusanang Crèche in Indermark, has been teaching for 17 years. Reflecting on the programme, she noted: “The training was eye-opening, especially in understanding the curriculum, something I wasn’t fully aware of before. Teaching children to read, write, and watching them grow is my passion.”
The Department of Basic Education has emphasised the critical role of ECD in shaping the quality of education. A qualified practitioner not only meets compliance standards but also builds a strong foundation for learners’ future success. As Noluthando Mazibuko, Economic Development Specialist at Soutpan Solar Power, explained: “Practitioners with proper qualifications are equipped to implement the National Curriculum Framework, creating a learning environment that supports children’s academic, emotional, and physical development.”
Another graduate, Phuti Jerminah Tau, 45, who has been teaching at Serakalala Crèche and Pre-School for four years, shared that the training was both informative and empowering. “The course has made us fully aware of our rights and responsibilities as practitioners,” she said.
All six graduates have already moved on to pursue their NQF Level 5 qualifications. The exact graduation timeline for this next level remains uncertain, as they are currently awaiting their results from ETDP-SETA. Once results are released and certifications are issued, a graduation date will be scheduled.
November 2024, De Aar Solar Power.
A small bakery in the remote community of Britstown is demonstrating how targeted business support and mentorship can turn a fledgling start-up into a thriving enterprise that creates local jobs and inspires the community.
Jo-Ann Matjan, the owner of Heavenly Treats, is a beneficiary of De Aar Solar Power’s Enterprise Development Programme. This month, her business received a critical boost, enabling her to expand her offerings and services. The support included new baking and catering equipment, funding for additional stock, kitchen uniforms, and essential hygiene and safety training, all of which have helped ensure her business meets the necessary health and safety requirements.
The first round of support came during the global pandemic in 2020, when this SMME, along with several other youth-owned local businesses, received financial assistance. This allowed Jo-Ann to secure a proper business location and purchase the essential equipment needed to launch her bakery. The programme also facilitated her obtaining an essential service certificate, enabling her to continue setting up her premises during the lockdown. This critical help ensured that she could meet key obligations and keep her business operational during a challenging period.
“When Jo-Ann first joined our Enterprise Development Programme in mid-2020, she had no formal premises, minimal equipment, and no formal training. She was operating from her home, and like many others, faced immense challenges during the Covid-19 lockdown, which directly affected her income,” said Yolanda Madyira, Economic Development Specialist at De Aar Solar Power.
Jo-Ann’s Heavenly Treats now employs three staff members, providing much-needed jobs in the area and with this additional backing, it has diversified its product range, now offering birthday and wedding cakes, hot chips, coffee, doughnuts, and freshly baked bread. The additional support came at just the right time, allowing her to expand her reach and supply the entire Britstown area.
Jo-Ann expressed her gratitude for the help: “I’m really thankful for the support from De Aar Solar Power. With this funding, I can keep baking, expand my business, and reach more customers, which will help my bakery grow.”De Aar So
lar Power’s Enterprise Development Programme is designed to foster small businesses in the rural towns of De Aar, Hanover, Philipstown, and Britstown, located in the Pixley Ka Seme district. The programme aims to provide training and support to create viable small businesses and encourage young entrepreneurs to build sustainable enterprises that can uplift their communities.
“Supporting youth enterprises like Jo-Ann’s is important to us at De Aar Solar Power,” explained Madyira. “It helps address rising youth unemployment rates, and we hope that by supporting young entrepreneurs, we can foster a cycle of success where businesses grow and provide employment to other community members.”
