Opening Remarks for Minister Lynne Brown at Eskom’s EPPEI signing ceremony with six South African Universities leading in science and technology in energy and electricity
PricewaterhouseCoopers estimates that infrastructure spend in Africa could reach $180 billion per annum by 2025, up from $70 billion in 2014. To fulfil these infrastructure requirements for economic development, the continent has to fill the gap for engineers. Currently, Africa would have a gap of 4.3 million engineers if the continent were to implement all its flagship projects, according to the Africa Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF). This may impact Africa’s ability to execute critical initiatives.
Our continent needs a framework for cooperation on energy policy and implementation of regional projects. This must include cooperation in policies and strategies; sharing and exportation of skills and competencies; unlocking of private sector funding and greater participation throughout the continent. Cooperation in these areas will contribute to integrated projects being pursued to attain rapid and shared economic growth and development, and increasing access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable power in Africa.
One great example that may offer solutions to other utilities is Eskom’s Power Plant Engineering Institute (EPPEI), which, in collaboration with six leading local universities, is able to harness the growth and development of critical skills for the industry.
It is only through collaborative partnerships that Africa can find solutions.
I congratulate Eskom and the University fraternity for embarking on this programme that provides a critical pipeline for South Africa’s energy industry.
Enquiries:
Colin Cruywagen
Cell: 082 377 9916
