Railway signalling equipment designer ACTOM’s Training Centre has received accreditation under the Occupational Qualification framework, effective April 1, 2025. This milestone covers five key trades: Electrician, Millwright, Metal Machinist, Fitter & Turner and Mechanical Fitter. Granted by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations, this achievement marks a major step in modernising technical training and aligning it more closely with industry needs. Unlike the legacy trade test system, the new occupational qualification focuses on industry relevance, hands-on competence, and measurable outcomes. Each apprentice now builds a Portfolio of Evidence to demonstrate tangible proof of their learning journey, ensuring they are workplace-ready and equipped with skills that matter.

At ACTOM, we take pride in offering an integrated, end-to-end training experience, combining state-of-the-art facilities, National Artisan Moderation Body-registered assessors, and exposure to real engineering environments across ACTOM divisions. This approach ensures that every apprentice gains not only technical mastery but also the confidence and problem-solving ability to thrive in their careers. Currently, 121 apprentices are enrolled across electrical and mechanical workshops, with many already being absorbed into ACTOM divisions and partner networks. Partnerships such as with the Katlehong Engineering School of Specialisation continue to strengthen ACTOM’s mission of developing skilled, employable youth and bridging South Africa’s artisan skills gap.

“All I can say about the training centre is that it helped me a lot in growing my career and field of work — learning about tools and knowledge I never knew before in the mechanical engineering field. What I’ve learned the most is helping others when they need to know something and working as a team player, not alone,” said Katlehong Engineering School of Specialisation apprentice Tshepiso Motshepe,

“The new occupational qualification isn’t just a measure of technical mastery; it’s a promise that every apprentice leaves our training centre skilled, supported and seen, because true quality training shapes both capable hands and confident hearts,” noted ACTOM Training Centre’s management.

ACTOM remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering the next generation of artisans in Africa, for Africa, by Africa.