Nepoworx, a South Africa-based renewable energy skills development agency, has partnered with Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator to launch the Youth Work Readiness Programme.
The programme will benefit 100 young South Africans between 18-35 out of education, training, and employment. Twenty individuals who own electrical or renewable energy-focused growing small businesses will be encouraged to take on the available labour.
In the joint press release, Nepoworx and Harambee said that, through the programme, they hope to drive innovation in the solar energy sector while empowering young people.
After the programme, the upskilled “job-ready” youths will be able to find jobs within the solar sector more easily through the practical skills and experience they will have gained.
The 120 participants will achieve a PV Green Card following completion of the programme, demonstrating their qualifications as solar installers. Such an initiative should increase the acquisition and retention of young talent in the industry.
“This partnership marks a significant step forward in our mission to empower young South Africans,” says Nepoworx South Africa CEO and co-founder Nonjabulo Sokhela.
“By providing them with the necessary skills and opportunities, we are not only addressing the critical issue of youth unemployment but also contributing to the sustainable development of our energy sector.”
Business owners
The joint release explains that the programme’s appeal for the 20 business owners will be the range of engaged and talented youths looking to learn and make an impact in their roles. Following this, the partnership hopes that the programme reduces youth unemployment while bolstering the growth of South Africa’s workforce.
Harambee chief impact officer Sharmi Surianarain concludes: “We are excited about the collaboration between Nepoworx and Harambee as it extends our mission to unlock entry-level jobs in relatively new and growing sectors.
“This mixed model is particularly significant as it supports work seekers and small business owners, positioning both the formal and informal sectors as viable options for the youth.”
