The Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI) has commended The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) for establishing a National Register of Artisans to formalise South Africa’s skilled workforce.
The National Artisan Development Support Centre (NADSC) is facilitating this no-cost registration process, ensuring artisans are officially recognised within their trade.
The RMI encourages all skilled tradespeople to register on the portal. Louis van Huyssteen, RMI National Training Director says the RMI supports this initiative, as it is essential to understand exactly where apprentice training efforts should be focused.
“A decline in registered qualified artisans between 2014 and 2024 highlights the need for structured intervention,” says van Huyssteen.
The table below shows the decline in key automotive aftermarket trades:
The National Register of Artisans aims to uphold industry standards and professional credibility and provides a structured system to ensure artisans meet nationally recognised competency levels. “By registering, artisans become part of a formalised network that supports industry regulation and development,” he says.
Interested artisans can either register as a Qualified Artisan (holds a trade test certificate but may not be actively working in the field); a Practicing Artisan (Actively working in their trade, utilising necessary tools and techniques) or a Foreign National Artisan (Qualified outside South Africa, requiring SAQA verification and proper work permits).
By supporting the National Register of Artisans, the RMI reaffirms its commitment to strengthening South Africa’s skilled workforce and ensuring a sustainable future for the automotive aftermarket. Formal recognition of artisans not only enhances career prospects but also raises industry standards and contributes to economic growth. “We urge all artisans to take advantage of this opportunity and secure their place in a structured, professional network,” concludes van Huyssteen.
Staff Writer
Reporting from the front lines of the collision repair industry, delivering expert analysis and the technical updates that drive the African automotive sector forward.
More From Training
Gauteng sharpens its manufacturing skills drive with new Centre of Excellence
Gauteng has relaunched the Gauteng Automotive Learning Centre as the Manufacturing Centre of Excellence to prepare workers for the future of advanced manufacturing and New Energy Vehicle technologies.
Global spotlight on VWGA apprentice Tshililo Nelwamondo
Volkswagen Group Africa apprentice Tshililo Nelwamondo has been recognised among the company’s top young talent worldwide after receiving a prestigious international apprenticeship award in Germany.
Stellantis South Africa partners with Social Coding to expand digital learning
A new partnership between Stellantis South Africa and Social Coding South Africa will bring coding, robotics and AI education to underserved communities through a mobile digital learning programme.
Hyundai Mentorship Programme Drives Youth Success
Hyundai Automotive South Africa’s mentorship initiative is helping young people develop practical workplace skills while creating new opportunities for further education and long-term careers.
Young Hyundai Technician Plays Key Role in Building Commercial Vehicles
Hyundai Automotive South Africa assembly technician Kwanele Sibisi has contributed to the production of more than 2,000 commercial vehicles, demonstrating the skill and dedication required in modern vehicle manufacturing.
PPG Extends WorldSkills Europe Partnership to Back Car Painting Talent
PPG is expanding its investment in vocational education by extending its partnership with WorldSkills Europe, helping develop future automotive refinishing professionals through international skills competitions and training initiatives.