The DLO Energy Skills Initiative is calling on unemployed youth or budding entrepreneurs looking for opportunities in the renewable energy sector to apply for the 2025 Solar Panel Cleaning, Maintenance and Green Enterprise Training Programme.

DLO Energy Group says this accredited programme will empower 100 black youth and township entrepreneurs with the technical and entrepreneurial skills needed to seize opportunities in South Africa’s growing green economy.

The three-month programme combines hands-on solar panel cleaning, system maintenance and fault detection training with enterprise development modules, equipping participants to launch viable green businesses in their communities.

This builds on the success of the inaugural 2024 programme in De Aar, in the Northern Cape, where 100 unemployed youth were trained in solar panel cleaning and maintenance and positioned to participate in the clean energy economy.

“South Africa’s energy transition requires a skilled workforce that is ready to meet the demands of a clean energy future,” says DLO Energy Group CEO Linda Mabhena-Olagunju.

“This programme is not only about training technicians, but also about building entrepreneurs who can create jobs in their communities and reduce the high levels of youth unemployment.

“Corporate South Africa has a critical role to play in supporting government in tackling this crisis, and this initiative is a clear example of what is possible when we invest in skills and enterprise development,” Mabhena-Olagunju continues.

The company notes that the programme comes at a critical time, as the country’s unemployment rate is increasing and the youth, in particular, are struggling to find employment.

The company says this initiative responds directly to national challenges, including youth unemployment, township underdevelopment and skills readiness for the energy transition.

By equipping participants with both technical expertise and entrepreneurial capability, the programme builds a pipeline of enterprise-ready talent for South Africa’s fast-growing green economy, the company says.

APPLICATION DETAILS

DLO Energy notes that applications are open for unemployed youth or budding entrepreneurs aged 18 to 35. Applicants must reside in Gauteng and provide proof of address.

Minimum requirements include a matric certificate with at least Level 3 in Mathematics/Mathematical Literacy and Level 3 in English, as well as a certified copy of a South African identity document.

The deadline for applications is August 26, and applications can be submitted on https://forms.office.com/r/r5u635FnRM.