VTC inaugurates solar plant
N$4 million investment
The 80-kilowatt ground-mounted system covers the centre's entire electricity needs.
The launch of the solar plant at Gobabis Vocational Training Centre (VTC) by the Namibia Training Authority (NTA) has earned praise from Higher Education Minister Itah Kandjii-Murangi for its innovative approach to delivering technical and vocational education and training (TVET) skills.The minister, speaking through a representative, commended the NTA's dedication to showcasing inventive methods during the inauguration ceremony. The photovoltaic solar plant, including cameras, solar lights, and necessary infrastructure like fencing, cost just over N$4 million.
Kandjii-Murangi emphasised the significance of job creation and the pivotal role TVET plays in enhancing the country's future competitiveness. She expressed satisfaction with the NTA's handling of priorities and challenges, highlighting the need to sustain momentum and commitment in transforming TVET provision in Namibia.
Recognising the demand for skills training surpassing available resources, the Promotion of Technical and Vocational Education and Training in Namibia (ProTVET) project was initiated. This collaborative effort between the NTA and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), funded by the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), aims to address this gap.
The installation of photovoltaic solar plants at the VTC was deemed a positive development by the minister. With a project timeline from February to July, an 80-kilowatt ground-mounted system was implemented, covering the entire electricity needs of the centre, including three-phase equipment. This move aligns with Namibia's environment, as photovoltaic systems are durable and low-maintenance, enduring extreme weather conditions for up to 25 years.