At Mulilo, we're setting bold targets to help build a more resilient and inclusive world. We aim to create a legacy of meaningful, sustainable empowerment—and to inspire others across our industry to do the same.
Education is a cornerstone of our Social Impact Strategy. Our flagship initiative, the Danish Vocational Program (DVP), was established to drive long-term, positive change in the communities where we operate.
Through strategic collaboration with the Danish Embassy, the Mulilo Community Trusts, and leading Danish colleges, the DVP demonstrates the power of partnership in delivering scalable and lasting impact.
The Danish Vocational Program (DVP) is a transformative initiative aimed at equipping South African youth with world-class technical and vocational training.
This groundbreaking collaboration delivers a program that is rooted in skills development, global best practices, hands-on work experience, and international exposure. Our goal is to open up the world for young South Africans—empowering them with a global mindset and the practical tools to gain meaningful employment through world-class vocational skills.
FIVE key reasons for this partnership:
1Develop skills for renewable energy industry
Mulilo is at the forefront of renewable energy growth in South Africa. Through strategic partnerships with leading Danish institutions, the DVP equips young South Africans with essential technical skills—such as wind turbine composite training.
Once successful, this cohort will add to the talent pool for the industry. This strengthens the South African workforce and supports the long-term growth of the green energy.
2High-quality education
Denmark is globally recognized for its excellence in vocational education, particularly in fields such as engineering, renewable energy, and advanced technical trades. By aligning with this high standard, the DVP ensures participants receive world-class, practical training that enhances their employability both locally and internationally.
3Tackle youth unemployment through empowerment
The program directly addresses one of South Africa's most pressing challenges: youth unemployment. By focusing on underserved regions like the Northern Cape, it offers young people the opportunity to gain in-demand skills, setting them on a path toward meaningful employment—particularly in the rapidly growing green economy.
4Creating sustainable partnerships and knowledge transfer
Mulilo's collaboration with Danish institutions is a long-term strategic partnership centered on meaningful knowledge exchange. By connecting South Africa to Denmark's globally respected vocational education system, the initiative contributes to sustainable development and institutional capacity-building. South African students benefit from both technical training and exposure to Denmark's innovation-driven work culture—renowned for its focus on efficiency, collaboration, and sustainability.
5Strengthening international cooperation
This partnership deepens the bilateral relationship between South Africa and Denmark, particularly in critical areas such as renewable energy and vocational skills development. It is well-aligned with global efforts to advance sustainable energy solutions and inclusive education, building a strong foundation for continued international collaboration.
In essence, this partnership helps address South Africa's skills gap, provides local youth with high-quality education, and supports the broader growth of the renewable energy sector in the region.
Pathways
The DVP offers specialised tracks, with active offerings at Techcollege in Denmark:
Technical: Aalborg TechCollege
Composite Technology
Knowledge, skills and competencies enable students to work as a skilled Assistant Composite Operator in the composite industry e.g. wind turbine blades production, repair services or quality inspector.
Introductory Week: One-week orientation held in Pretoria, South Africa, to prepare students for international training.
Core Training: 37 weeks of hands-on vocational education at Techcollege’s main campus in Aalborg, Denmark, with access to state-of-the-art workshop facilities and expert instructors.
Leadership & Personal Development: A parallel four-week Personal Growth & Leadership module, delivered across all MDVP (Mulilo-Danish Vocational Program) tracks, focusing on communication, teamwork, and self-leadership.
Certification & Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students are awarded a Techcollege Diploma, certifying their ability to perform as Assistant Composite Operators.
The diploma reflects the completion of approximately 75% of the Danish Composite Operator vocational curriculum (excluding on-the-job work practice), ensuring a strong foundation in both theory and technical execution.
Teaching & Learning Styles
Lecture-based Learning - Learning by listening
Delivery of information and concepts through spoken communication and note taking
Experiential Learning - Learning by doing
Engage students in direct experiences and focused reflection to enhance knowledge, skills and values
Cooperative Learning- Learning through group work
Students work in small groups to achieve a common goal
Problem-based Learning - Learning through problem solving
Knowledge about common electrical and plumbing-based systems - and their maintenance in accordance with Danish and European standards and practices within residential, commercial and industrial settings.
Program Structure
Duration: Approximately 9.5 months
Certification: Techcollege Diploma - Assistant Maintenance Technology Operator for Energy Systems
Key Components:
Introductory Week (South Africa) The program begins with a one-week orientation session in Pretoria, preparing students for international study and introducing the fundamentals of composite technology.
Core Training (Denmark): Students then complete 37 weeks of intensive, workshop-based training at Techcollege in Aalborg, Denmark. This phase focuses on hands-on technical education in a state-of-the-art training environment.
Leadership Development: All participants engage in a four-week Personal Growth & Leadership module, running concurrently throughout the program. This module strengthens soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and professional self-management, and is offered across all MDVP (Mulilo-Danish Vocational Program) tracks.
Certification & Outcomes
Upon successful completion, participants are awarded a Techcollege Diploma - Assistant Maintenance Technology Operator for Energy Systems. This certification reflects the completion of approximately 75% of the official Danish Composite Operator vocational curriculum, excluding the work placement component, and confirms readiness for employment in the composite manufacturing industry.
Teaching & Learning Styles
Lecture-based Learning - Learning by listening
Delivery of information and concepts through spoken communication and note taking
Experiential Learning - Learning by doing
Engage students in direct experiences and focused reflection to enhance knowledge, skills and values
Cooperative Learning- Learning through group work
Students work in small groups to achieve a common goal
Problem-based Learning - Learning through problem solving
These partners work together to drive sustainable development and empower South African communities through education and vocational training.
The DVP is a collaborative effort involving:
Mulilo Community Trust
“Initiatives like this are crucial because they address systemic gaps in South Africa’s education and training systems. They ensure that learners are better equipped with green skills to actively participate in the renewable energy value chain as well as sustainable agriculture. Furthermore, the initiative helps reduce unemployment and fosters economic growth.”
Siyanda Siko
Chairperson -Mulilo De Aar Wind Community Trust & Mulilo De Aar Solar Community Trust
Mulilo Community Trust
“Skills Development remains the key to addressing challenges faced in our country. Having the right set of experiences contributes to the fundamentals of development which is critical to a thriving economy.”
Tsholofelo Momphi
Chairperson- Mulilo Prieska Solar Community Trust
Mulilo Renewable Energy
“At Mulilo, we believe that true transformation begins with opportunity—opportunity rooted in skills, dignity, and purpose. This program is more than a training initiative; it’s a bridge to a future where young South Africans are architects of the energy transition, not just beneficiaries of it. By aligning education with industry and innovation, we are shaping a generation equipped to power a more inclusive, sustainable tomorrow.”
Seithati Bolipombo
Chief Commercial Officer – Mulilo
Mulilo Community Trust
"The intent behind the DVP Program is to address the skills gap in the communities of South Africa. By offering practical skills training and investing in upskilling initiatives, we can empower our youth and drive economic growth."
Johnny Cullum
Founder Trustee- Mulilo Community Trusts
The Embassy of Denmark in South Africa
"The Danish Vocational Program embodies Denmark’s commitment to skills development and youth empowerment, fostering stronger partnerships and a brighter, more inclusive future for South Africa and Denmark."
Elsebeth Søndergaard Krone
Former Ambassador of Denmark to South Africa
The Voices of DVP
"Being here is a life-changing experience. It opens your eyes to a different way of learning, working and even thinking. Being in a new environment challenges you in the best way and you grow so much, not just as a student or future professional but also as a person. If someone is even thinking about applying, I'd tell them to go for it because they won't regret it!"
Andrea Booisen
Prieska
"The teaching style is engaging, interactive, and highly effective. Our lecturer has a unique ability to break down complex concepts into simple, easy-to-understand language, which has helped me develop a deep understanding of the subject matter. Their emphasis on practical application and real-world examples has given me the skills and confidence to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios."
Elmonecia Eiman
De Aar
"During the time spent in the workshop, our lecturer allows us to make mistakes. This gives you the knowledge to see where you have gone wrong and how to fix it."
Brandon Makies
Prieska
"Denmark is one of the biggest wind energy leaders and Tech College is very advanced. Our lecturer is open-hearted, focused and has a good work ethic, which enables our learning."
Renaldo Charlie
De Aar
"Our lecturers give us the skills and confidence to complete this program successfully. There is a lot of respect shown for the work and effort that we put into our learning."
To be eligible for the Mulilo-Danish Vocational Program (MDVP), applicants must meet the following criteria:
Be a South African citizen
Be a permanent resident of one of the following municipalities: Emthanjeni, Renosterberg, or Siyatehemba
Be proficient in English (written and spoken)
Be between the ages of 18 and 25
Have a household income of ZAR 180,000 or less per year
Achieve a minimum 60% aggregate in Matric
Demonstrate a clear interest in vocational skills development
Apply and be selected by the Mulilo Social Impact selection committee
Be approved by Techcollege for enrollment in your chosen MDVP track
Show a resilient, motivated attitude with a strong desire to embrace challenges and drive meaningful personal growth
Number of spaces per vocational pathway?
Each vocational pathway is limited to 20 students, ensuring a focused and high-quality learning experience with personalized support and hands-on training.
Why should I apply for this opportunity?
Why Join the Program?
Personal and Professional Growth
Build confidence, adaptability, and self-leadership through structured development modules.
Acquire In-Demand Technical Skills
Gain practical, job-ready skills tailored for the rapidly growing renewable energy and composite manufacturing sectors.
International Learning Experience
Study at a leading Danish vocational institution and benefit from global exposure and cross-cultural learning.
Holistic Skills Development
Strengthen both technical and soft skills, including communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
Dedicated Mentorship
Receive personalized guidance and support throughout your learning journey from experienced instructors and mentors.
What does the Mulilo DVP Bursary offer?
Comprehensive Financial Support
The program offers a full bursary for each vocational track, covering tuition, travel, accommodation, meals, and monthly stipends for the duration of your training.
End-to-End Travel & Logistics
All travel arrangements to and from Denmark, including flights and local transfers, are fully managed by Mulilo Social Impact, ensuring a seamless experience for students.
Medical Insurance Included
Students are provided with comprehensive medical insurance to cover healthcare needs while studying abroad, offering peace of mind throughout the program.
Terms and Conditions apply
What documents do I need to apply?
To apply for the DVP, applicants must provide the following:
Valid South African ID and/or Passport
Proof of legal identity and citizenship.
Proof of Residence
Documentation confirming residence within the designated catchment municipalities.
Academic Records
A certified copy of your Matric Certificate, or Grade 11 final results if you are currently in matric.
Proof of Household Income
Recent bank statements and/or payslips for parents or guardians to verify financial need.
Composite Technology
Maintenance Technology
Mulilo is at the forefront of renewable energy growth in South Africa. Through strategic partnerships with leading Danish institutions, the DVP equips young South Africans with essential technical skills—such as wind turbine composite training.
Once successful, this cohort will add to the talent pool for the industry. This strengthens the South African workforce and supports the long-term growth of the green energy.
Denmark is globally recognized for its excellence in vocational education, particularly in fields such as engineering, renewable energy, and advanced technical trades. By aligning with this high standard, the DVP ensures participants receive world-class, practical training that enhances their employability both locally and internationally.
The program directly addresses one of South Africa's most pressing challenges: youth unemployment. By focusing on underserved regions like the Northern Cape, it offers young people the opportunity to gain in-demand skills, setting them on a path toward meaningful employment—particularly in the rapidly growing green economy.
Mulilo's collaboration with Danish institutions is a long-term strategic partnership centered on meaningful knowledge exchange. By connecting South Africa to Denmark's globally respected vocational education system, the initiative contributes to sustainable development and institutional capacity-building. South African students benefit from both technical training and exposure to Denmark's innovation-driven work culture—renowned for its focus on efficiency, collaboration, and sustainability.
This partnership deepens the bilateral relationship between South Africa and Denmark, particularly in critical areas such as renewable energy and vocational skills development. It is well-aligned with global efforts to advance sustainable energy solutions and inclusive education, building a strong foundation for continued international collaboration.
In essence, this partnership helps address South Africa's skills gap, provides local youth with high-quality education, and supports the broader growth of the renewable energy sector in the region.