Developing a pipeline of qualified automotive artisans requires close collaboration between industry and education.
The Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI) and the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA) are continuing to supportthis goal through their longstanding relationship with the College of Cape Town’s Athlone Campus.
During a recent visit, RMI National Training Director Louis van Huyssteen accompanied MIWA’s National Director, Pieter Niemand, to the campus, a Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) Centre of Specialisation for the OccupationalCertificate: Automotive Motor Mechanic. Technical learning materials were handed over to apprentices and three lecturers to support practical, industry-relevant training.
With a third of the automotive motor mechanic curriculum dedicated to vehicle diagnostics, access to appropriate learning resources is increasingly important as vehicle technologies become more complex. Supporting lecturers is equally valuable,helping strengthen the quality of training and its impact on future technicians.
The Athlone Campus is also one of three South African TVET colleges partnering with the German Chamber of Crafts Erfurt (Handwerkskammer Erfurt) on electromobility, highlighting the growing importance of preparing artisans for evolvingautomotive technologies.
Van Huyssteen acknowledged the commitment of RMI CEO Ipeleng Mabusela and COO Henk Ferreira to training and upskilling, as well as the dedication of the College of Cape Town team.
He also encouraged vehicle manufacturers and distributors to support similar initiatives, either directly, or through the RMI, to benefit other accredited Skills Development Providers.
“For MIWA members, investing in artisan development is an investment in the future capability of their businesses and the broader aftermarket. A sustainable pipeline of skilled technicians is essential to maintaining service standards,responding to changing vehicle technologies and ensuring the industry has the expertise it needs for the future,” concludes Niemand.