January – February 2025
In a bold move to bolster expertise within South Africa’s automotive aftermarket repair and maintenance sector, the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), an esteemed arm of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), has launched the latest phase of its transformative Short Skills Training Programme. With a historic funding injection of R23.5 million from merSETA secured last year, this initiative— the largest ever attained by the RMI— is set to equip 1,575 employed learners nationwide with the skills needed to drive industry growth.
A Comprehensive, Tailored Training Initiative
The programme is designed to cover five critical areas:
- Automotive Parts Sales
- Service Advising
- Leadership and Problem-Solving
- Basic Auto Electrical Skills
- Automotive Component Diagnostics
In KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), the induction and training sessions have commenced in January and February 2025, in close collaboration with KATS Training. This partnership ensures that the curriculum is perfectly aligned with the current and evolving needs of MIWA member workshops, bridging the gap between theory and practical application.
Pieter Niemand, MIWA National Director, emphasized the initiative’s impact:
“By investing in structured training, we’re equipping participants with practical knowledge and expertise needed to elevate service standards in workshops. This is a critical step toward fostering growth in the automotive industry.”
An Immersive Learning Experience
The training programme has been meticulously structured to offer a blend of theoretical learning and hands-on practical experience. During the initial induction in January, learners were immersed in leadership and problem-solving techniques. The following week, a comprehensive service advisory course provided deeper insights into customer engagement and workshop operations. As the programme progresses, participants will engage in an intensive automotive diagnostics session, rounding out their skillset by June 2025.
A standout feature of this initiative is its hybrid learning model. By seamlessly integrating online modules with in-person assessments, the programme offers learners the flexibility to balance their professional commitments while gaining invaluable, hands-on experience.
Positive Feedback and Future Impact
Feedback from the initial sessions has been overwhelmingly positive. One participant noted,
“The course was informative and well-structured, providing insights that will be invaluable in the service environment.”
Such testimonials underscore the programme’s success and its capacity to make a significant impact on the quality of service provided by automotive workshops across South Africa.
Looking Ahead
The ongoing training in KZN will continue through February, with additional modules focusing on automotive diagnostics and parts sales. All participants are expected to complete their training modules by the end of June 2025. The initiative stands as a testament to MIWA’s commitment to nurturing a highly skilled workforce, one that is prepared to meet the dynamic challenges of an evolving automotive sector.
By investing in comprehensive skills development, MIWA is not only enhancing individual career prospects but also playing a pivotal role in driving innovation and excellence within the automotive industry. As the programme unfolds, it is poised to create a lasting, positive impact on the service standards and overall growth of the sector, heralding a new era of professionalism and expertise in automotive repair and maintenance.
