Call for matriculants to join the auto industry in South Africa

Following the release of South Africa’s thousands of matriculants’ 2025 results, many are contemplating their futures, and many may even be confused about what their options are.

The Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI) has since urged matriculants to consider their options within the automotive industry.

For many, university is the default choice, but the RMI says this may not be the best option, and it is certainly not the only choice.

It called on learners who enjoy problem-solving, technology, and practical work to consider a trade in the automotive sector, which may offer them the breakthrough opportunity they are looking for.

“Not everyone needs, wants, or is suited to university, and that is absolutely okay,” said Louis van Huyssteen, National Training Director of the RMI.

“A trade qualification gives young people a clear pathway into meaningful work. In the automotive sector, it opens doors not only in South Africa, but around the world.”

RMI explained that the South African automotive aftermarket remains one of the most stable and essential sectors of the local economy.

It supports over 300,000 jobs and includes more than 22,000 businesses, contributing approximately 2.1% of South Africa’s GDP.

Although the automotive industry offers a wide range of specialist career options, there is a shortage of these specialists in South Africa.

Every sub-sector of the industry is experiencing a shortage of qualified artisans, including mechanical diagnostics and electrical systems, motor body repair, spray painting, parts, tyres and battery technology.

Van Huyssteen explained that South Africa is in desperate need of these trained artisans.

“Young people who choose this route are stepping into a sector that is modern, technology-driven, and constantly evolving, and the job prospects are strong,” he declared.

“Many apprentices secure employment long before they qualify.”

A practical qualification

The road to becoming a qualified automotive sector artisan involves an apprenticeship within the field of qualification.

According to the RMI, a transition to Occupational Qualifications is now fully in place, meaning that learners follow a structured, industry-aligned pathway, gaining knowledge, practical skills and workplace competency.

This path combines theoretical learning, practical training and workplace experience, after which learners write trade tests to obtain their qualification as artisans.

Artisans are widely respected around the globe and possess skills that are transferable to anywhere in the world.

“These qualifications prepare young people for the vehicles of the future – hybrids, EVs, advanced diagnostics and more,” noted Van Huyssteen.

He also explained that more and more young women are entering artisan training, adding that they tend to excel in mechanical, electrical, diagnostic and motor body repair roles.

“Women bring technical precision and strong problem-solving skills. They are thriving in workshops and moving into leadership roles,” Van Hyssteen added.

He further told recent matriculants who are weighing their options that a trade offers a clear, respected and financially rewarding alternative to traditional tertiary education.

“An apprenticeship teaches discipline, critical thinking and resilience. These are skills for life,” said Van Huyssteen.

“A young person who qualifies as an artisan can build a stable career, support their family and contribute meaningfully to the economy.”

He added that many artisans progress quickly, building successful careers and starting their own businesses.

Several institutions offer learners opportunities to work in the automotive industry, including TVET colleges.

Registered training providers and RMI associations such as MIWA (mechanical workshops), TEPA (tyres, equipment, parts), and SAMBRA (motor body repair) also offer young people apprenticeship opportunities.

“I want young South Africans to know your future is not defined by one exam result,” declared Van Huyssteen.

“There are many paths to success. A trade in the automotive sector is one of the most empowering, globally portable and opportunity-rich choices you can make.”