SARETEC graduates power South Africa’s renewable energy future

The Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), through its South African Renewable Energy Technology Centre (SARETEC), continues to play a leading role in developing the skilled workforce needed to support South Africa’s growing renewable energy sector, with graduates from its Wind Turbine Service Technician Programme already making a meaningful impact in industry.

At the recent 2026 graduation ceremonies, SARETEC celebrated the achievements of its latest cohort of wind turbine technician graduates, recognising not only their academic success but also their contribution to the country’s Just Energy Transition.

One of the most encouraging outcomes has been the strong employment success of the graduates. Of the five graduates who recently completed the programme in Cookhouse, two have already secured permanent employment within the wind energy industry, while another has been offered an internship. These achievements highlight the increasing demand for qualified wind turbine technicians and demonstrate the effectiveness of industry-aligned training in creating sustainable career opportunities.

The milestone reflects SARETEC’s commitment to producing highly skilled graduates who are ready to contribute to South Africa’s expanding renewable energy sector while addressing youth unemployment through quality technical education.

Speaking at an earlier graduation ceremony held at the CPUT Granger Bay Hotel School, Dr Fareed Ismail, Operations Manager at SARETEC, encouraged graduates to embrace the opportunities ahead.

“Remember, this is an industry defined by growth and opportunity. Take pride in what you do, embrace the challenges ahead, and never forget the incredible power of wind.”

The ceremony celebrated graduates who had successfully completed the prestigious Wind Turbine Service Technician Programme, officially qualifying them to work within the renewable energy industry. Among the graduating class were students sponsored through strategic industry partnerships, reinforcing the importance of collaboration between higher education institutions and the private sector.

SARETEC continues to work closely with renewable energy companies and development partners to expand access to specialised training. These partnerships provide young South Africans with valuable opportunities to gain industry-relevant skills while supporting the country’s transition to a low-carbon economy.

The centre’s graduates are increasingly finding employment across South Africa’s wind farms, where they are responsible for installing, maintaining and servicing wind turbines that contribute to the country’s clean energy generation.

As South Africa accelerates investment in renewable energy, the demand for skilled technicians is expected to continue growing. Through programmes such as the Wind Turbine Service Technician qualification, CPUT and SARETEC are ensuring that graduates are equipped with the technical expertise, practical experience and professional competencies required to meet industry needs.

The success of SARETEC graduates is a testament to the transformative power of skills development. Beyond earning qualifications, these graduates are building meaningful careers, strengthening local communities and contributing to a more sustainable energy future for South Africa.

With every graduating class, SARETEC continues to demonstrate its commitment to innovation, industry collaboration and producing graduates who are ready to make a lasting impact in the renewable energy sector.