South Africa’s automotive industry is developing an Electromobility Occupational Skills Programme, which will be a nationally recognised qualification designed to equip technicians with the skills to service and maintain electric and hybrid vehicles.

The qualification process development is being led by the Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority (merSETA), in collaboration with the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI) and other industry stakeholders.

The goal is to formalise electric vehicle- (EV-) related skills development, while also aligning South Africa’s skills development framework with the growing transition to electromobility.

The process to develop the programme began in May, gaining traction by October with the appointment of a service provider.

“The merSETA has been appointed by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) to proceed with and be instrumental in this long-overdue groundbreaking development,” says merSETA acting CEO Naphtaly Mokgotsane.

Qualification development follows a structured process – scoping, appointment of a development quality partner, facilitator procurement, curriculum development by expert practitioners, registration and then, finally, implementation.

South Africa has a strong legislative foundation for skills development, but implementation and practical expertise often fall short, and this is where the real challenge lies, notes RMI national training director Louis van Huyssteen.

“As South Africa explores EV adoption as part of its broader Just Energy Transition, technicians must be trained to manage battery systems, diagnostics and safety protocols. The risk of working on EVs without a recognised qualification is grave,” he adds.

By 2024, 90 hybrid, plug-in-hybrid and EV models across 20 brands, including Porsche, Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, Volvo, BYD, Chery and Great Wall Motors, were available to South African consumers – this according to RMI data.

This year, more makes and models have been introduced, including Changan, Deepal and Tata.

And, although EV sales remain modest, demand is expected to rise.

“The centres of specialisation at technical and vocational education and training colleges, especially those focused on trades like motor and diesel mechanics, are well positioned to integrate this new qualification,” says Department of Higher Education and Training special projects unit chief director Sabelo Buthelezi.

“It will enhance employability and meet the needs of a growing market.”

“The automotive industry in South Africa is undergoing a significant transformation towards electromobility,” notes RMI CEO Ipeleng Mabusela.

“The need for skilled professionals in EV technology will only become greater.

“Our training director, Louis van Huyssteen, and training manager, Boitumelo Mphanya, have kept the need for the development [of this qualification] firmly on the radar for over six years,” he adds.

“We will progress from two knowledge modules in the Transportation Electrician qualification to a full occupational skills programme that meets QCTO standards.

“As the country accelerates towards a sustainable, technology-driven mobility future, it is essential that the industry equips its workforce with the right skills.

“This ensures that staff are not only prepared to drive the transition responsibly, but also hold a reputable and credible qualification,” says Mabusela.

The RMI expects merSETA to soon make a formal call on interested parties to aid in the qualification development process.