Proconics takes flight in community upliftment

Proconics has invested in youth development and skills training, which is a key step towards tackling the socio-economic difficulties faced by the communities of De Aar and Hanover in the Northern Cape province, a region that is battling high unemployment rates.

Asheraff Makwena, a young local who is an intern drone pilot and is being coached by the gifted professionals in the Proconics Drone Technology team, is a shining example of this dedication. He may just be getting started on his drone-flying adventure; however, the investment is evidence of the effectiveness of collaboration between business and community.

This initiative is part of the company’s broader strategy to bridge the skills gap between education and employment by giving young people the chance to learn in-demand skills. By offering internships and training programmes, Proconics is not only creating employment opportunities but also nurturing a skilled workforce for the future.

As part of its efforts to build the necessary infrastructure for the just energy transition, Proconics infuses technology, in the form of drone technology, in its execution delivery. Drone technology has been implemented as an inspection tool of equipment, a monitoring tool during emergency evacuations, and even as an observation tool on projects. Proconics incorporates drone technology into its execution delivery as part of its endeavours to construct the infrastructure required for the just energy transition. Drones have been used as monitoring devices during emergency evacuations, equipment inspection tools, and even project observation tools.

Makwena, who is candid about his upbringing in a province with extremely high unemployment, is proof of the company's faith in the abilities of young people in the area and its commitment to helping them realise their full potential. According to Statistics South Africa's most recent Quarterly Labour Force Survey, the Northern Cape's employment situation is dire, with the region's unemployment rate skyrocketing to 32.0% for the second quarter of 2024. With an official unemployment rate of 46.1% in the second quarter of 2024 — a 7.1% increase from the first quarter — young people are also disproportionately impacted. 

Beyond only creating jobs, Proconics' community investment is a strategic move to address the underlying causes of unemployment by giving young people the skills they need to succeed in the contemporary workplace. The company's effort is a force for change, giving people hope and showing that they can overcome obstacles and accomplish their goals if they have the correct assistance.

Locals have been employed by the project from its inception on 30 June 2024, in positions including general labourers, administrative clerks, and currently, a drone pilot in training. Local firms that provide security services, diesel supply, ablution services, and civil works are profiting from the company's dedication to sourcing products and services locally.

Proconics' dedication to social responsibility doesn't waver as it grows its business. By placing a high priority on community upliftment, the organisation is strengthening its workforce and contributing to the region's sustainable future. Proconics' commitment to youth development serves as an example for other companies, proving that financial success and social impact may coexist.

Note:

Proconics is a subcontractor to SolarAfrica on the SunCentral EPC project to execute the transmission and distribution scope that includes constructing a 400/132kV 500MVA Main Transmission Substation (MTS) and related infrastructure including an access road and 400kV overhead lines. This endeavour is set to contribute 300MW to reducing load shedding and improving the sustainability of South Africa’s power supply.