The South African National Energy Development Institute (SANEDI) and Centre for Renewable and Sustainable Energy Studies (CRSES) team conducted a week-long series of site visits from 26 to 30 January 2026. The purpose of these visits was to assess the condition, functionality, and impact of community-based projects, including Media Labs, a Science Lab, and the Water-Food-Energy (WFE) Nexus project.
Day 1: Peter Mokaba Primary Media Lab – Mpumalanga
The Peter Mokaba Primary Media Lab is scheduled for handover to the school by the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) at the end of May 2026.
While the lab is largely complete, several maintenance issues need to be addressed prior to handover. These include repairing damaged paving and replacing approximately 15 chairs that were lost in a fire. Addressing these items will ensure the facility is in optimal condition for official transfer.
Day 2: Naledi Primary Media Lab – Ottosdal, North West
The Naledi Primary Media Lab is in excellent condition and requires minimal maintenance. However, it was noted that teachers would benefit from training to fully utilise the facility.
To address this, Vuselela TVET College has been identified to provide the necessary training and capacity-building support.
Day 4: Vhembe District Site Visits—Limpopo
1. Mugoidwa Media Lab
The Mugoidwa Media Lab is currently non-operational due to a faulty inverter that requires replacement. Additional maintenance issues were identified, including floor repairs, roof leaks, and repainting.
2. Masia Village Water-Food-Energy Nexus Project
A stakeholder engagement meeting was held with representatives from the Masia Traditional Council, the University of Venda, and local interns.
It was noted that one charge controller, previously sent for repairs, is yet to be returned. The service provider, MLT, is currently working on reinstalling the unit following repairs. Additional maintenance requirements have been identified and will be addressed by SANEDI.
3. Russel Bungeni Science Lab
The Russel Bungeni Science Lab is fully operational and in excellent condition. The facility supports eight schools in the area, operating on a structured roster system.
Only minor needs were identified, primarily the replenishment of certain chemicals.
Day 5: Moloke Primary Media Lab – Apel, Limpopo
The Moloke Primary Media Lab has been fully functional for the past three years and continues to deliver strong impact. The lab offers robotics programmes to learners from both the primary school and a neighbouring high school.
A few maintenance items were identified, including replacing internal lighting and repainting the exterior of the facility.
The site visits provided valuable insight into the performance and impact of the various community projects. While several facilities are operating effectively and delivering meaningful educational benefits, some require targeted maintenance and technical interventions to ensure continued sustainability.
