PRESS RELEASE
Cape Town, South Africa – 22 August 2025
“Powering South Africa’s Youth into the Green Economy” – Launch of Project Power Up at Atlantis Campus, Westcoast TVET college.
The practical component of Project Power Up, was launch on 22 August 2025, at Atlantis Campus of Westcoast TVET College, a pioneering programme designed to prepare South Africa’s youth for careers in the fast-growing New Energy Vehicle (NEV) sector. The launch brought together delegates from the Western Cape Government, industry partners ( Golden Arrow Buses and Stroom) , SIFA and training providers ( West Coast TVET College, and young beneficiaries) to celebrate a bold step towards building a greener and more inclusive economy.
Project Power Up is a strategic partnership between the Swiss South African Cooperation Initiative (SSACI) and the Guru Group of Learning (GGL), funded by the Skills Initiative for Africa (SIFA) under the guidance of AUDA–NEPAD. The programme addresses a critical skills gap by delivering specialised training in electric and hybrid vehicle technology, combined with workplace exposure, entrepreneurial development and work readiness skills training.
Key highlights of the programme include:
• Recruitment of 80 promising candidates from four TVET colleges with engineering background.
• A blended learning model that combines digital training with hands-on workplace experience.
• Comprehensive support through psychometric assessments, workplace readiness, and entrepreneurial skills development.
• Collaboration with the QCTO to ensure participants gain recognised national credits toward a skills programme for New Energy Vehicles.
Speaking at the launch, SSACI Chairman Jannie Isaacs said:
“Project Power Up is more than a training programme—it is a commitment to South Africa’s future. It ensures that our youth are not just job seekers, but innovators and leaders in the green economy. For nearly 25 years, SSACI has invested over R400 million in projects that have already improved the employability of more than 30,000 young South Africans. This initiative builds on that proud legacy and prepares our workforce for the industries of tomorrow.”
Since its establishment in 2001, SSACI has played a pioneering role in bridging the gap between TVET colleges and industry, implementing over 200 projects that have enhanced skills development, workplace readiness, and youth employability across multiple sectors. As a Non-Profit Company and Public Benefit Organisation, SSACI continues to collaborate with government, corporates, and training providers to deliver systemic and sustainable impact.
The launch of Project Power Up signals South Africa’s readiness to embrace the green economy while ensuring that its youth are fully equipped to participate in and benefit from this global transition.
About SSACI
The Swiss–South African Cooperation Initiative (SSACI) is a non-profit development agency focused on enhancing the employability of young South Africans. Through innovative skills programmes, strategic partnerships, and a strong track record of impact, SSACI has directly improved the career prospects of over 30,000 youth since 2001. Guided by its values of Excellence, Integrity, Respect, Collaboration, and Innovation, SSACI continues to shape South Africa’s skills landscape and empower the next generation.
SSACI Contact:
Binaben Akoobhai
Swiss–South African Cooperation Initiative (SSACI)
Tel: +27 (0)11 642 2110
Email: info@ssaci.org.za
Website: www.ssaci.org.za
