The Tyre Equipment Parts Association (TEPA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), is making significant strides in the South African tyre sector to tackle the critical skills shortage in the sector.

A comprehensive five-year plan has been outlined to modernise and align training programmes with the evolving demands of the sector, ensuring relevance and sustainability for the future.

Angie Frederics, TEPA’s Training Committee leader, explains the challenges driving this initiative. “The South African skills development landscape is undergoing significant changes, with the phasing out of SAQA historical qualifications and their replacement with QCTO (Quality Council for Trades & Occupations) occupational qualifications. While this shift aims to enhance skills training, it has created short-term challenges for Skills Development Providers to enrol new learners into skills programmes.”

The transition deadline for SAQA qualifications was 30 June 2024, yet not all programmes have successfully transitioned to QCTO qualifications. This has left gaps, particularly in critical programmes such as automotive servicing and tyre sales, which are yet to be registered under the QCTO framework.

The current state of training

For now, Skills Development Providers can only offer two approved programmes under SAQA’s extended qualifications:

• Tyre Repairer (SP0561)
• Wheel Alignment (SP0963)

However, several key skills programmes, including automotive component diagnostics, tyre and parts sales, and divisional management, remain unavailable until their QCTO counterparts are registered. This has delayed the rollout of much-needed training for new entrants and professionals seeking to upskill.

TEPA’s Five-Year Plan

To address these challenges and establish a sustainable skills pipeline, TEPA has outlined a structured five-year plan:

• Year 1: The focus is on reviewing and aligning existing legacy skills programmes with QCTO standards. This involves updating programme content to meet current and future industry needs. Frederics notes:

“We are collaborating closely with merSETA to expedite this process and get learners back into classrooms as soon as possible.”

• Year 2: TEPA will begin creating new skills programmes to address gaps in the current offerings and prepare for the next phases of the plan.
• Year 3: Pilot programmes will be launched at select fitment centres. These pilots will refine the implementation process, gather feedback, and address any challenges before a broader rollout.
• Year 4: The full rollout of finalised skills programmes will begin, involving extensive collaboration with stakeholders. Accredited training providers and fitment centres will be key partners in delivering these programmes nationwide.
• Year 5: Marketing and outreach campaigns will drive participation from industry professionals and attract new talent into the sector. The focus will be on creating career pathways and promoting the opportunities available in the tyre industry.

The Road Ahead

Frederics emphasises the importance of industry collaboration: “The success of this plan hinges on collective action. TEPA is committed to working with all stakeholders, including merSETA and training providers, to ensure we meet the industry’s skills demands while fostering inclusivity and growth.”

While the challenges are significant, the industry’s commitment to innovation and collaboration provides hope for a more sustainable and skilled workforce. As the five-year plan progresses, TEPA aims to position South Africa’s tyre sector as a leader in training and development, ensuring a brighter future for both businesses and professionals.