On Wednesday, 6 May, Kathu Solar Park hosted a special event to welcome eight new interns into its internship programme. With this new intake, the very successful youth development programme has provided opportunities to 21 John Taolo Gaetsewe (JTG) graduates, since it launched in 2024.
Celebrated alongside key programme stakeholders, the event provided interns with an introduction to Kathu Solar Park and its operations. Attendees also heard from Zandi Nkone, Chief Executive Officer, and Sandisiwe Mntonintshi, SED Manager for the plant, who shared words of encouragement and support with the new cohort.
As the event was held on site, a key highlight for the interns was the opportunity to experience the state-of-the-art Concentrated Solar Power parabolic trough technology, first hand – one of only a few plants of its type in the country.
Following the formal proceedings, guests enjoyed entertainment by a local vocal group, followed by a prepared lunch.
As shared by Mntonintshi at the event, the programme aims to connect graduates from the JTG region with industry opportunities, helping young people build skills, confidence, and pathways towards meaningful careers – “Youth unemployment is one of South Africa’s biggest challenges, and real change starts within our own communities. Kathu Solar Park is proud to launch the second cohort of our internship programme, creating opportunities for young graduates across the John Taolo Gaetsewe District. Our goal is to help local youth build meaningful careers close to home, showing them that their talent is needed and valued right here in our communities.”
Echoing the sentiment, Chief Executive Officer of Kathu Solar Park, Zandi Nkone added, “This programme is truly life changing. It gives young graduates the chance to apply their skills, gain real work experience, and grow within their own community. We are especially proud that some interns from our first cohort have already secured permanent employment, showing the real impact and opportunities this programme can create.”
