Partnership to upskill automotive industry
Changing public perception of trade qualifications
The automotive industry in the Eastern Cape is set to receive a much-needed boost following a partnership between the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI) and the German-bashed Chamber of Crafts, Erfurt that aims to drive vocational training in the sector.
RMI CEO Jakkie Olivier said the partnership formed part of their commitment to further developing the industry.
Technological advances in “the automative aftermarket sales, repair and maintenance sector continue to provide challenges for businesses to attract staff with the right kind of skills who can add value.
The access to international trends will be invaluable for our apprentices, particularly in an environment where skills are valued and provide businesses with a competitive advantage,” said Olivier.
RMI training manager Louis Van Huyssteen said the upskilling of workers in the automotive industry was crucial.
This partnership will also
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ensure the department of higher education and training TVET centres of specialisation benefit.
Public and private
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collaboration can ensure greater success in the gradual expansion of these centres into other provinces,” he said.
According to Olivier, they hoped to change public perception of trade qualifications and make them more attractive to young workers looking to start their own careers.
We will be working with
“the Chamber of Crafts, Erfurt to uplift the perception of skilled crafts and we also want to see far more women coming into the profession.
“We are delighted with the progress technical schools in the Eastern Cape are already making and our collaborative partnership will give this additional impetus,” he said.