105 SA WOMEN GRADUATE FROM EWSETA ENERGY LEADERSHIP PROGRAMME PART 2

In a significant stride towards gender inclusivity and empowerment, 105 South African women have graduated from the prestigious ‘Women Leading in Energy Sector’ (WLES) bursary programme. This is Part 2 of a two-part series.

…continued from Part 1.

This initiative, a collaboration between the Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority (EWSETA), Eskom, and Duke Corporate Education, culminated in a celebration of women leaders in the energy sector, including Eskom’s female power station managers, marking the commencement of Women’s Month in Johannesburg.

The programme’s focus on SMEs and TVET colleges reflects EWSETA’s commitment to advancing human capital in the Just Energy Transition (JET) and promoting inclusive economic participation. By targeting SMMEs, which are a cornerstone of South Africa’s energy sector and crucial for future job creation, EWSETA ensures that small and medium enterprises are well-equipped to contribute to the industry’s growth.

Praise Nyalungu, a Senior Lecturer in Civil Engineering at Capricorn TVET College in Limpopo and participant in the Middle Management cohort, shared her experience, “As the only female in my section, overseeing predominantly male subordinates and students, the leadership principles I gained were invaluable. The programme has equipped me to foster collaboration and pursue our common goals, regardless of gender.”

The energy sector in South Africa continues to face a gender imbalance, with women making up only a fraction of leadership roles. The International Energy Agency reports that there are 76% fewer women than men working in the energy sector globally. Programmes like WLES are crucial in bridging this gap and ensuring a more equitable future.

EWSETA values its partnership with Duke Corporate Education, whose expertise and educational frameworks have provided invaluable support for South African women in the energy sector. This collaboration is pivotal in nurturing a new generation of leaders who can navigate the complexities of the national energy landscape with innovation and a global perspective.

“These remarkable women have embarked on a transformative journey that has enriched their perspectives and provided them with the tools to drive meaningful change within the vocational training system and South Africa’s energy sector. Their experiences have undoubtedly inspired and empowered them to be well-rounded, proudly South African leaders in their respective spaces. This is a true reflection of justice as we transition the energy sector for what lies ahead,” concluded Mookapele.