In response to a request made by IkamvaYouth, a non-profit organisation that equips pupils from disadvantaged communities with skills and knowledge, Environmental Resources Management (ERM) provided young people across South Africa with 2 000 Nokero solar lights.
A total of 173 solar lights were given to Kaalfontein Secondary School in Midrand.
ERM, a leading global provider of environmental, health, safety, risk, and social consulting services, provided the lights to help pupils study safely after dark. The initiative was made possible through the company’s foundation which supports various environmental and social projects across the globe.
At an event held at the secondary school to hand out the solar lights, the company interacted with pupils to discuss career opportunities in the environmental sector as well as provide knowledge on the importance of sustainability and renewable energy in the South African context.
This also took place during the IkamvaYouth Winter Schools Programme, a two-week holiday learning programme.
In a statement, ERM’s marketing manager for sub-Saharan Africa, Jacqui Good, said the remaining lights will be handed out to pupils across the country, with similar sessions being run by ERM in Durban and Cape Town in July. She added, “The solar lights allow pupils to continue their studies safely after dark. ERM is proud to be part of this initiative which is making a positive impact in our communities in South Africa. When IkamvaYouth requested support from ERM to purchase the lights following the tragic death of one of their learners, we were happy to come on board to help find a solution, in particular, a sustainable one.”
Gauteng district co-ordinator of IkamvaYouth, Ditiro Huma, said the donation made by ERM will have a positive impact in assisting pupils who are studying for their exams. He added,”We appreciate the relationship we have with ERM, especially in this time when learners are writing exams. Imagine those who do not have electricity at home? This gesture will go a long way to improving that situation.”
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