One of South Africa’s biggest priorities is to develop qualified artisans to support our economy. To successfully deliver on our country’s Strategic Infrastructure Projects (SIPs), we need artisans. These SIPs include the building and construction of:
- Roads
- Schools
- Universities
- Harbours
- Power stations
- Other social and economic infrastructure.
The growth of industry requires a significant number of qualified and competent artisans. The Department of Higher Education and Training has invested billions of rands into the further development of TVET Colleges. The goal is to develop these into institutions of choice, so that we will not have to import skills from other countries in order to deliver on our Strategic Infrastructure Projects.
Government views the production of artisans and other mid-level skills as a priority.
Artisans are in demand right now!
There is a massive shortage of artisans in South Africa. There are jobs to be filled and not enough skilled and qualified people to fill them. Large developmental and engineering projects are on the cards but lack of Artisans in South Africa could force these jobs to be filled by outsiders. Which is why the SA government is urgently looking to create partnerships between themselves, business and labour to urgently address this problem.
We need more trained artisans to successfully implement strategic infrastructure projects including the building of roads, bridges, schools, harbours, power stations, and other social and economic infrastructure. Artisans need to be produced locally to avoid having to import these much-needed skills.
Gone are the days when you needed a university degree to enjoy a successful career. Trades and artisan careers are in high demand and artisans are earning big salaries!
Right now, the focus is on training young people in 13 key areas that are critically needed for the economy to grow. These trade areas are:
- Bricklayer
- Electrician
- Millwright
- Boilermaker
- Plumber
- Mechanic including Automotive Mechanic
- Diesel Mechanic
- Carpenter and Joiner
- Welder
- Rigger
- Fitter and Turner
- Mechanical Fitter
- Pipe Fitter
The average age of an Artisan is 55 years. This means in a few years’ time, when these Artisans retire, the problem will only get worse. BUT there’s good news! This could be the best career opportunity for South Africa’s youth (men and women). With the right skills training, work ethic and commitment – these jobs could be theirs!
