South Africa Accelerates Towards an Electric Future with Landmark Skills Initiative

South Africa is taking a decisive step towards an electrified transport future as local experts and leading industry stakeholders convene today, Wednesday 12 November, for the first scoping and profiling session to shape the country’s inaugural nationally recognised Electromobility Occupational Qualification.

This pioneering programme, spearheaded by merSETA under the mandate of the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO), is being developed in partnership with the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI) and other key bodies. It represents a critical milestone in equipping the nation’s workforce for the growing adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles.

Although electric vehicle (EV) sales remain modest in South Africa, the market is evolving rapidly. The range of available models has expanded significantly, signalling confidence in the country’s readiness for change. In 2024, consumers could choose from ninety models across twenty brands, including Porsche, Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, Volvo, BYD, Chery and Great Wall Motors. This year, additional marques such as Changan, Deepal and TATA have entered the market, offering fully electric and hybrid options. The pace of expansion underscores South Africa’s potential as a regional hub for electromobility.

“merSETA has been tasked by the QCTO to lead this groundbreaking initiative, which will establish a national benchmark for skills in servicing and maintaining electric vehicles,” explains Naphtaly Mokgotsane, Acting CEO of merSETA.

“Proper training is essential for technicians working with high-voltage battery systems, diagnostics and safety protocols,” adds Louis van Huyssteen, RMI National Training Director. “Without a recognised qualification, the risks are considerable. This programme will deliver safe, standardised and credible skills development across the sector.”

Brandon Cohen, National Chairman of the National Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA), agrees:

“This qualification is a major leap forward. It ensures technicians meet international standards and opens the door to specialist skills that will futureproof our industry, complementing existing trades such as motor mechanic and auto electrician.”

The qualification will benefit the entire automotive value chain—from OEMs and body repairers to independent workshops, TVET colleges and accredited training providers—by replacing fragmented, non-accredited courses with a formal, industry-recognised standard.

Aligned with the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition’s (DTIC) EV White Paper and the Department of Higher Education and Training’s (DHET) vision for Centres of Specialisation at TVET colleges, this initiative reflects a united effort between industry, government and education to safeguard South Africa’s skills base for the future.

“It’s encouraging to see collaboration at this level,” concludes Mkhululi Mlota, Chief Director for Automotives at the DTIC. “Together, we are laying the foundation for a sustainable, competitive automotive sector.”