In early 2024, South Africa saw a rise in unemployment, with 330,000 more people out of work, bringing the total to 8.2 million. Despite this, StarSat, a leading satellite TV provider in South Africa, is actively supporting local jobs and skill-building through innovative programmes.

Formerly known as Top TV, the company is enhancing its service delivery and tackling load shedding by certifying staff in solar installation.

Debbie Wu, CEO of OnDigital Media, which holds the broadcast license for StarSat, highlights the company’s community focus. “With a workforce that is 38% female and 92% South African, we support the livelihoods of over 3,000 people. Our employment and training programmes create jobs and career advancement opportunities.”

The company believes in nurturing talent from within, offering extensive training in various fields like broadcasting, satellite transmission, and content creation. A success story from 2023 includes an intern who excelled in international courses in China, receiving a prestigious distinction prize.

This year, StarSat has invested in training staff in solar installation, ensuring its customers can still watch TV during load shedding with the solar systems that the company provides.

“At StarSat, we also train employees to become satellite installers and support them in starting their own small businesses, boosting local economies,” adds Wu.

StarSat assists NGOs by offering placements of interns over 18 months which often lead to full-time roles. The company finds interns who need practical training to complete their qualifications, and, after completion, may offer them full-time employment.

Leveraging connections with Chinese investors, StarSat sends staff to China for international training and brings experts to South Africa for on-site training in technology and content creation.

The company’s investment in recording studios has led to the production of Zulu-dubbed series like Waaris, creating jobs for local actors, sound engineers, and dubbing directors. The #InZulu project continues with shows such as Mariana and Scarlett and the renowned Brothers novellas.

“We are passionate about showcasing local stories and talents. Investing in local content production and dubbing creates job opportunities for local actors and technical staff and ensures that South African culture is represented and celebrated on screen,” says Wu.

The company also supports independent dealers by providing satellite dishes and decoders on consignment, removing financial barriers to entry. Dealers receive training in installation, sales, and customer activation, enabling them to earn significant income and contribute to local economies.

In the face of South Africa’s employment challenges, StarSat proves that corporate responsibility can drive positive change.

About StarSat
StarSat, the South African branch of StarTimes Media, the largest satellite television provider in Africa, has been serving South Africans with affordable and quality entertainment since it acquired TopTV in 2013.
The company’s mission is to provide South Africans with top-class TV channels that cater to a wide range of tastes at accessible prices. Its unique pay-as-you-go zero-recharge fee payment structure allows customers to pay what they can afford.
The business continues to uplift local communities through zero start-up capital investment, entrepreneurship and free training programmes.
For more information and a list of StarSat’s offerings, please visit: https://starsat.co.za/about/