Continuing its commitment to supporting local tertiary education, Kathu Solar Park has expanded its support programme of Kuruman TVET College. Following the initial phase, which has provided study bursaries to over 40 students, this second phase includes substantial upgrades to the college’s four computer labs. Aimed at benefitting nearly 1,000 students with state-of-the-art technical equipment, this initiative will profoundly improve the learning environment.
The overarching support is designed to strengthen Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges, which are essential for providing tertiary education in remote communities and enhancing both the quality of education and the student learning experience. Additionally, this investment in new technology is deliberately timed to coincide with the upcoming end-of-year examinations, ensuring that students can fully utilise these enhanced facilities for their studies.
Zandile Nkone, Chief Executive Officer of Kathu Solar Park, highlighted the programme’s broader benefits: “With this expansion, we are significantly improving the quality of technical education at Kuruman TVET College. This not only prepares students for the workforce but also supports local economic growth by enhancing employability within the community.”
The solar park has provided 80 desktop computers and desktop accessories, fully equipping four computer labs. This substantial enhancement will ensure students have access to modern tools essential for their technical training, aligning their learning experiences with the demands of current industry standards.
The initial phase focused on alleviating financial barriers for students by providing bursaries, particularly benefiting those not eligible for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme. This next phase addresses the urgent need for modern technology resources, previously hindered by outdated equipment that was no longer fit for purpose.
This ongoing support by the solar park follows a comprehensive needs analysis that underlined the pivotal role of TVET colleges in providing tertiary education in the Northern Cape’s communities and identified critical areas for support to enhance educational quality and student outcomes.
Through these enhancements, the solar facility, continues to foster the educational and economic development of the John Taolo Gaetsewe District, benefiting students and the wider community alike.
