Built for the Green Shift

By Tunovandu Hijarunguru

Kevin Kavanhu a Solar  Equipment installation and maintenance trainee at Windhoek Vocational Training Centre

In an interview with Campus Connect Kevin Kavanhu a Solar  Equipment Installation and Maintenance trainee at Windhoek Vocational Training Centre reflected on how his course is better  preparing him for Namibians growing green energy sector .

For the solar installation trainee, preparation begins long before a system is switched on. It starts with understanding diagrams, identifying supply points, and planning each connection carefully.. “A typical day is structured and practical,” he told Campus Connect (CC). “It combines theory and hands-on technical work. Every day is focused on building competence.”

He works directly with solar panels, inverters, charge controllers, batteries, and wiring systems. From measuring and bending PVC to configuring inverters and testing voltage, each task building practical confidence.

“I am trained in system sizing, load calculations, installation techniques, inverter configuration, battery maintenance and fault finding,” he explained. “Safety standards are emphasized in every practical session.”

A defining moment his studies came after completing a full training home system. “When I successfully installed and powered the system and saw the inverter running smoothly, that moment confirmed that I chose a field that creates real impact.”

As Namibia slowly expands solar projects across the country, he believes his training perfectly aligns with the nation’s immediate renewable needs.

“As a country we are making progress in expanding solar projects,” he said. “The country definitely needs technicians who can install, maintain and troubleshoot these systems. My training prepares me to enter a work site with the skills required to perform efficiently and safely.”

For the current solar market, Kevanhu feels confident in his training this far . “If I graduated tomorrow, I would feel confident entering entry-level roles in solar installation and maintenance,” he said. “and with continued learning and industry exposure, I would  be able to contribute meaningfully and actively to our country’s renewable energy ambitions”

However, when the conversation shifts to Namibia’s broader ambitions  particularly green hydrogen and large-scale renewable plants  he acknowledges that growth is still needed.

“For the future market, especially with emerging sectors such as green hydrogen and advanced energy storage, more specialized exposure is urgently required,” he said. “Continuous upskilling is important. The foundation is strong, but learning must continue as technology evolves.”

Kevanhu also believes stronger collaboration between institutions and renewable energy companies would strengthen the county's readiness.

“There is a disconnect between the industry and the institution,” he said. “Every trainee should complete meaningful time on active renewable energy projects before graduating.”

Despite this, he remains optimistic about Namibia’s direction. “Namibia is moving in the right direction,” he said. “Renewable energy is recognized as a strategic sector and institutions are responding.”

For him, the answer is balanced: his course is building a solid technical foundation for today’s solar industry and with more continuous development, it can evolve to meet the energy demands of tomorrow.