The Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority (EWSETA), in collaboration with the SASOL Foundation, RES4Africa Foundation, Enel Foundation, and the University of Pretoria, marked a milestone in green hydrogen skills development through the conclusion of the Re-skilling Lab Green Hydrogen Workshop and Certificate Ceremony.

The event recognised TVET college lecturers from across the country who completed specialised training in green hydrogen technologies. This initiative is part of a broader national effort to build a capable, future-focused workforce that can support South Africa’s transition to a low-carbon economy. Facilitated by the University of Pretoria’s Department of Electrical, Electronic, and Computer Engineering, the Hydrogen Fuel Cell System Practitioner training was designed to equip educators with practical and technical expertise in emerging energy technologies. It also directly supports the strategic objectives outlined in South Africa’s Just Energy Transition and skills development frameworks.

“Green hydrogen isn’t just a technological shift, it’s an opportunity for economic renewal and meaningful participation. At EWSETA, we believe the transition’s success hinges on the people who drive it. That’s why we empower educators to deliver future-focused, practical training, said Robyn Vilakazi, EWSETA’s Executive for Skills Development and Quality Assurance.

South Africa has been identified as one of the most promising locations globally for green hydrogen production, with the Northern Cape offering extensive solar and wind resources and strategic export potential. However, the realisation of this opportunity depends on the availability of suitably skilled talent to support industrial development and technology deployment.

EWSETA is taking the lead in building that talent pipeline. Through initiatives like the Re-skilling Lab, it is aligning education and training systems with industrial policy and ensuring that educators are empowered to translate complex technologies into accessible, future-oriented learning.

The certification ceremony also served as a platform for dialogue among industry leaders, academics, and policy stakeholders on how to scale skills development for green hydrogen. Topics included localisation of manufacturing, regional energy trade, and the integration of training with live projects and apprenticeships.

Portia Peter, a TVET lecturer and one of the programme’s beneficiaries, shared her perspective on the value of the training. “The training gave me practical knowledge in hydrogen fuel cells, chemical safety, and renewable energy systems, and more importantly, the confidence to bring these into the classroom in a real and relevant way. My students are now learning content aligned with South Africa’s green economy, preparing them for future-focused careers.”

Participants were introduced to key concepts including fuel cell operation, hydrogen classifications, chemical safety and the cost implications of hydrogen production. These tools are already being applied in TVET classrooms across the country. With EWSETA’s leadership and a powerful network of partners, South Africa is equipping its education system and its future workforce to thrive in a green, globally competitive economy.