Boipelo Mere

A three-year Artisan training learnership programme funded by Boshoff Solar Power, in collaboration with Artisan Training Institute (ATI) will equip and open doors to employment for four young people from Boshoff and Dealesville.

This initiative will address critical skills shortages and contribute towards long-term socio-economic development in the area.

The participants will benefit from hands-on technical experience to support their journey toward qualifying as industrial electricians, by obtaining a comprehensive Phase 1, 2, and 3 training, culminating in a qualifying trade test.

The programme attracted interest, with over 400 applications received. Following a rigorous selection process, including a written electrical skills assessment and interviews with the training provider, four candidates were selected to proceed.

This initiative was driven by the demand for technical and artisan skills in the local area, driven by industries such as Agriculture, Tourism and Retail Services, alongside high unemployment rates. It also highlights the importance of initiatives that build practical skills and open access to sustainable career opportunities.

Paseka Ntsala, 26, from Boshoff, isone of the selected participants. He already holds a qualification as an Electrical Technologist and applied for the learnership to strengthen his practical expertise.

He is grateful for the opportunity and said the programme allows him to bridge theory and practice, while contributing to renewable energy and industrial development in his community.

Similarly, is Realeboga Bopheka (23) from Dealesville, who has been working as a general worker for a construction company after finding it challenging to secure employment after completing his National Diploma in Electrical Engineering.

She expressed that being selected for the programme means the world to her and her family.

“It’s an opportunity to build a more stable future, considering how long I have been trying to secure opportunities.”

Noluthando Mazibuko, Economic Development Specialist for Boshoff Solar Power, explained that the programme’s top priority is to promote skills development, enhance employability, and ultimately contribute to the socio-economic upliftment of the area.

“By focusing on technical skills, we aim to create more sustainable opportunities for young people in the community,” said Mazibuko.