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 & Green Enterprise Training Programme. Applications close on Tuesday, 26 August.
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 (60-day) 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, 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,” said Linda Mabhena-Olagunju, CEO of DLO Energy Group. “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.”
The programme comes at a critical time. South Africa’s unemployment rate rose to 33.2% in the second quarter of 2025 (Stats SA), with youth unemployment at crisis levels. While 19,000 jobs were created, more than 140,000 were lost, leaving 8.4 million people without work. This initiative responds directly to these national challenges – 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.
Who can apply
- Unemployed youth or budding entrepreneurs aged 18–35
- Must reside in Gauteng Province (proof of address required)
Minimum requirements:
- Matric certificate with at least Level 3 in Mathematics/Mathematical Literacy and Level 3 in English
- Certified copy of South African ID
Deadline: Tuesday, 26 August 2025
Submit application to: https://forms.office.com/r/r5u635FnRM or admin@dloskillsinitiative.com