SOUTH AFRICA, Johannesburg, 19 August 2025 – With South Africa’s youth unemployment rate at a daunting 46.1%, representing 4.8 million young people eager but unable to find work, the importance of bridging the gap between education and employment has never been greater. For the automotive sector, franchised dealerships are stepping forward as crucial enablers of opportunity, offering structured pathways from classroom learning to sustainable careers.
One notable example lies in the enduring partnership between Maruleng Auto and Ehlanzeni TVET College. Established nearly a decade ago through the vision and persistence of Mr Edward Ramovha, a tireless advocate for youth development, this collaboration has already provided workplace exposure to more than 40 students. For these young learners, the experience is not simply about observing—it is about engaging with a professional, technology-driven dealership environment that demands both technical competence and personal growth.
“Many young people complete their studies but face a major barrier when it comes to gaining workplace experience,” explains Derik Scorer, Dealer Principal of Maruleng Auto and senior vice-chairman of the National Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA). “Franchised dealerships offer the perfect setting for these learners to start their journey and grow within the automotive sector. These partnerships don’t just benefit learners, they help dealers build a pipeline of high-quality, enthusiastic, and technically capable talent.”
From Workshops to Workplaces
What makes partnerships like this so valuable is their holistic approach to training. Beyond technical exposure in service bays, students gain essential soft skills such as time management, professionalism, and effective communication—competencies vital in today’s customer-centric industry. While TVET colleges provide stipends to assist with travel and meals, dealers like Maruleng Auto often supplement this support, ensuring students can attend consistently even when transport costs rise.
The results speak for themselves. Many of the learners hosted at Maruleng Auto have transitioned into full-time employment within the dealership. “The quality of candidates we receive from Ehlanzeni College is consistently high,” notes Scorer. “They’re eager, hardworking, and committed to building a better life. It’s a win-win.”
A Strategic Priority for NADA
For NADA, skills development remains a core strategic focus. Across the country, dealerships are experimenting with similar partnerships, recognising the critical role they play in building a future-ready workforce. With the automotive industry rapidly evolving toward electric vehicles, advanced diagnostics, and software-led systems, demand for digitally fluent and technically agile professionals is accelerating.
“Today’s vehicles are no longer just mechanical machines,” says Scorer. “They’re complex, interconnected technology platforms requiring expertise in electronics, diagnostics, and software.” For dealerships, this transformation means that structured partnerships with TVET institutions are more than just socially responsible—they are strategically essential.
Building Careers, Building Futures
The success of initiatives like the Maruleng Auto–Ehlanzeni TVET partnership underscores the power of collaboration. By investing in the next generation, dealerships not only strengthen their own operations but also contribute to addressing South Africa’s wider employment crisis.
“There’s a place for everyone in the dealership world,” concludes Scorer. “Whether your interest is in diagnostics, software, electronics, or customer service—there’s a career for you in this dynamic and future-forward industry.”
