Five young people from De Aar and surrounding towns have started a three-year artisan training learnership, opening a practical pathway into technical careers, while responding to the growing demand for skilled artisans in the area.
Harrisinah Theka, economic development manager at De Aar Solar Power, said the initiative is aligned with the Pixley ka Seme District’s development.
“As the renewable energy sector continues to expand across the Northern Cape, there is a growing need for skilled technical workers.
“At the same time, many young people struggle to access practical training opportunities.
“This programme provides a clear, hands-on route to qualification while improving long-term employment prospects,” she said.
Local participants
Drawn from De Aar, Britstown and Philipstown, the participants were selected through a screening process that included a written electrical assessment and interviews with training providers.
They will complete their training through the Artisan Training Institute (ATI) in Kimberley, with practical experience taking place at De Aar Solar Power.
The learnership combines structured theoretical training with hands-on experience, enabling participants to complete Phases 1, 2 and 3, as well as a qualifying trade test to become industrial electricians.
Important step
For Carlito Julius (20) from De Aar, the opportunity builds on his studies.
“After completing my Electrical Engineering studies up to N3, I wanted to gain practical experience and work towards becoming a qualified artisan. This learnership gives me that opportunity,” he said.
He added that gaining practical experience has not been easy.
“Although I had the theory, it’s difficult to find programmes that offer both training and hands-on experience. This is an important step for me.”
Also part of the programme is Patience Bonolo Goeiman (31) from De Aar, the only woman in the group.
She already has industry experience, having previously worked on a solar plant as a semi-skilled electrician and later spent four years with the De Beers Group as a maintenance operator.
“These roles helped me build practical skills and confirmed that this is the field I want to work in,” said Goeiman.
At the end of the three-year programme, the participants will qualify as industrial electricians, improving their chances of securing work within the local economy.
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