South Africa’s shift towards a greener economy is opening up new employment and training opportunities through the country’s Just Energy Transition projects. With billions of rands being invested in renewable energy and sustainability initiatives, thousands of South Africans are set to benefit from work and skills development programmes.
The Just Energy Transition Investment Plan has already attracted more than R350 billion in private renewable energy investments since 2023, in addition to strong international commitments to support South Africa’s transition.
“Every new solar panel, every waste separation project, every environmental monitor we train is more than a line in a report. It is dignity, it is work, it is a future for families across South Africa,” said Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George.
Training and Career Pathways
The Minister highlighted that the department’s focus goes beyond simply creating jobs, aiming to ensure that work opportunities are meaningful and sustainable. Initiatives such as Youth Environmental Services, Youth Jobs in Waste, and Environmental Monitors are offering accredited training, mentorship, and career pathways in fields such as biodiversity conservation, aquaculture, waste management, and renewable energy.
To further strengthen the transition, the National Employment Vulnerability Assessment ensures that workers in coal, metals, petroleum, agriculture, and tourism sectors are supported with resilience plans. “This makes the country’s just transition practical, not abstract, by ensuring that people in older industries are equipped to participate in the new economy,” explained the Minister.
Job Creation Targets
Through the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP), the Department has committed to creating more than 121 000 work opportunities over the next five years, which equals over 77 000 full-time jobs. The programme is also focused on inclusivity, with 60% of opportunities reserved for women, 55% for youth, and 2% for persons with disabilities.
“Every government decision must be judged by whether it creates work. In our department, we can say with confidence that our programmes do exactly that. They provide jobs today while building the skills South Africa needs tomorrow,” said Dr George.
As South Africa continues its transition to a greener economy, these initiatives are not only creating employment opportunities but also building the skills needed for future sustainability and growth.
