The gathering, convened by the Department of Higher Education and Training, marked a significant step in preparations for the 2026 awards which celebrate excellence across South Africa’s priority artisan trades.
The Selection Committee brings together representatives from government, industry, organised business and the skills development sector. Their role is to ensure that the awards process remains transparent and credible. During the meeting, members reviewed nomination criteria, assessment procedures and the electronic nomination platform ahead of the national call for entries. The aim is to provide a seamless nomination process while guaranteeing that every nominee is assessed fairly and consistently.
The meeting also included interviews for the national awareness campaign which will highlight the importance of artisans in driving economic growth. These recordings will emphasise the value of vocational education and training and the need to recognise skilled professionals who are shaping South Africa’s future.
For the RMI, involvement in the awards aligns with its longstanding commitment to developing the next generation of automotive artisans. The automotive retail aftermarket is one of the country’s largest artisan employers, supporting around 23,000 businesses and employing approximately 300 000 people. Thousands of qualified artisans keep vehicle fleets operating safely every day.
The sector plays a critical role in developing two of the thirteen priority trades identified by the Department of Higher Education and Training through its Centres of Specialisation programme, namely Motor Mechanic and Diesel Mechanic. These skills will become increasingly important as the industry embraces new vehicle technologies including electric and alternative energy vehicles.
Louis van Huyssteen, RMI National Training Director, said that recognising artisan excellence is about more than celebrating individual achievement. He explained that artisans are the foundation of a safe, professional and sustainable automotive industry.
Programmes such as the awards shine a spotlight on individuals whose skills keep South Africa moving while inspiring more young people to consider artisan careers. Recognition also reinforces the value of quality training, continuous development and industry excellence.
Van Huyssteen added that the RMI is proud to support initiatives that raise the profile of artisans and strengthen South Africa’s skills pipeline. He noted that investing in artisan development is ultimately an investment in economic growth and competitiveness. Nominations for the 2026 awards will open nationally in the coming weeks, encouraging artisans, employers and training partners to recognise individuals who demonstrate exceptional technical skill, professionalism and commitment to their trade.
The programme will culminate in the awards ceremony on 5 September 2026 where outstanding artisans from across the country will be honoured for their contribution to industry excellence and national skills development.
