Final Pilot Workshop
Last month, the Fixim Sola project gathered for its Final Pilot Workshop, a vibrant gathering of trainers, provincial partners, non-profit organisations, community members and industry partners. Held in Port Vila on April 15, 2026, the event marked a pivotal moment in our journey. We were able to bring together participants from the Vanuatu Institute of Technology (VIT), the Department of Energy, community representatives, and industry partners under one roof. With 52 participants in total, the day featured shared learning, celebration of achievements, and anticipation for potential scaling up our work nationwide.
One of the highlights of the workshop was celebrating progress in training and capacity building across 2025 and 2026. To date, 141 individuals have been trained in off-grid solar maintenance and repair. The group includes 14 certified trainers from VIT and the Department of Energy.
Moreover, the program has prioritised inclusivity with 38% female participation. Additionally, there is targeted support for trainees with disabilities. This enables a diverse group to gain and share skills. that are making a positive impact within their communities. The workshop also highlighted the tangible impact of the project so far. Over 110 solar systems have been repaired. 12 new installations were completed, showing progress. Fixim Sola is already making a difference in remote areas.
But the real heart of the workshop was the stories shared by participants. Principal Wade Evans of VIT emphasized how Fixim Sola bridges the gap between secondary schooling and vocational training, empowering young people with job-ready skills. Meanwhile, Julius Mala from the Department of Energy spoke passionately about the urgent need to address e-waste alongside expanding solar access—a challenge the project is already tackling through its repair-focused model. Community voices were just as powerful. Students from Lini Memorial College and Tafea College shared how the program has reignited interest in technical skills among their peers, with many now taking the initiative to help neighbors troubleshoot solar issues. For many, this isn’t just about learning, it’s about reclaiming pathways to livelihoods and independence.
Of course, no journey is without its challenges. Workshop discussions openly addressed barriers like limited solar literacy, access to tools, and spare parts. But rather than dwell on these obstacles, participants came together to brainstorm solutions. From expanding solar education programs to include parents, to creating tool-loan systems at schools, the energy and creativity on display were inspiring.
As we move forward, the Fixim Sola team is deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to these outcomes. We offer our special thanks to the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade for their support. We also thank Palladium for their guidance throughout the pilot.
This workshop marks the end of the pilot phase for this project. It testifies to the layers of collaboration that have made these programs possible. It lays a foundation for exciting possibilities. As we firm up plans for a Vanuatu-wide expansion, we hope for funding to make it happen. Here’s to the next chapter!
If you’re interested in learning more, staying updated, or joining our efforts as we scale up across all six provinces of Vanuatu, please reach out to Program Manager Laylyn Toa at lynevevihangavulu@gmail.com.