adding that it empowers employers, especially those prepared for workplace training, to directly shape the development of future artisans. He emphasizes that it also provides opportunities for smaller or rural employers who might otherwise be excluded due to limited access to training providers.
According to Van Huyssteen, Hanekom, and Dr. Frik Botha, a private training expert, the model is revolutionary. However, its successful implementation relies on synchronized alignment throughout the system. This encompasses coordination among merSETA ' s head office, regional CLOs, administrators, quality assurers, and the QCTO ' s quality assurance framework.
Dr. Botha emphasizes the time-consuming nature of educating employers about the QCTO ' s workplace-based model. Many still struggle to grasp that grant funding is now exclusively for occupational certificates, or how to integrate learning from knowledge modules, practical training, and workplace exposure. Therefore, clear and simplified communication is essential for every step, from apprentice registration and tracking to site visits, evidence collection, logbook completion, and final verification.
For the model to succeed, consistent communication among employers, workplace mentors, Skills Development Facilitators( SDFs), and quality assurance partners is crucial.
To aid in this transition, SAMBRA and the RMI are closely monitoring a hybrid pilot project. This project, led by Dr. Botha at IT-C( an accredited Private Skills Development Provider), delivers theoretical training through online distance learning, while employers provide practical and workplace training on-site.
Thirteen apprentices( six spray painters and seven panel beaters) have been placed with five RMI / SAM- BRA employer members as part of a pilot program. All participants are registered on merSETA’ s National Skills Development Management System( NSDMS) and with the QCTO, and their wages are covered by their employers. This model, while drawing on principles from the former Competency-Based Modular Training( CBMT) system, places increased responsibility on workplace mentors for guidance and assessment.
Public TVET colleges are also adapting. In 2025, False Bay College and Northlink College in Cape Town enrolled their first apprentices in occupational qualifications for motor body repair. Additionally, national private provider UXI in the Eastern Cape has committed to collaborating with SAMBRA to implement a hybrid training model.
Despite promising developments, significant systemic challenges persist. Many employers, particularly in
rural areas, remain unclear about the new occupational qualification system and the administrative responsibilities tied to grant funding.
" In a struggling skills system, even something as simple as getting a Workplace Skills Plan approved often turns into an exhausting administrative battle," states Van Huyssteen. He adds that " the red tape is discouraging. Some employers with a long track record of successfully training apprentices are now questioning whether it’ s worth continuing."
SAMBRA and the RMI are urging policymakers and implementation agencies to act swiftly to simplify processes and dismantle systemic barriers. There ' s an urgent need for a more employer-friendly, responsive skills ecosystem— one that supports, values, and empowers employers as key enablers of youth employment and artisan development.
With over 23,000 employers and 300,000 employees, contributing approximately 2 % to South Africa’ s GDP, the automotive retail aftermarket sector is uniquely positioned to advance national goals. Van Huyssteen points out,“ If just one in five employers adopted the QCTO’ s workplace-based model, we could register 4,500 apprentices annually, delivering 15 % of the government’ s 2030 target of 30,000 qualified artisans per year.”
The collaboration between SAMBRA, the RMI, and committed training providers underscores the sector ' s unwavering dedication to developing skilled artisans. Hanekom concludes,“ With the right support, coordination, and innovation, the motor body repair industry can help unlock the full potential of South Africa’ s youth and play a vital role in rebuilding the nation’ s skills pipeline.”
AUGUST 2025 13 WORDS IN ACTION