This month sees the option to study laser welding – through a new technology- driven training programme – being formally added to the Southern African Institute of Welding’s (SAIW’s) training portfolio.

“With pilot courses launching in September 2025 and a full rollout to the public in January 2026, this marks a significant expansion into high-tech welding processes,” enthuses SAIW executive director Vicus Burger.

He adds that this is but one of a slew of strategies that the SAIW has employed to modernise its offering and outreach initiatives to ensure that welding remains a “visible, attractive and competitive profession” in South Africa.

Other strategies include the reintroduction of industry engagement evenings, which will once again provide members and stakeholders with opportunities to network, share insights and engage directly with thought- leaders in welding and manufacturing.

Importantly the inclusion of flexible and digital training pathways, including online and blended learning models, will make training more accessible.

“This includes self-paced online modules, as well as digital platforms for mock examinations, helping learners better prepare for formal assessments,” says Burger.

Further, the SAIW is developing a suite of digital and AI-enabled applications to support members in their welding operations, from quality control through to business efficiency, which will help members adopt innovative practices and remain globally competitive.

Burger hints that SAIW is exploring the integration of emerging trends such as additive manufacturing, thereby ensuring that its members and learners remain aligned with the future of metal fabrication.

He points out that, although new and innovative solutions are constantly being developed, a key factor to maintaining stability within the sector includes the SAIW’s continued collaboration with stakeholders, and strengthened partnerships with government and regulators, all while promoting growth in the sector.

Addressing Challenges
The welding sector faces challenges such as skills shortages, constrained construction activity and limited uptake of advanced technologies.

In response, the SAIW has increased efforts to expand workplace training initiatives to mitigate the shortage of certified welders.

“We are also fostering innovation by collaborating on automation, robotics and advanced manufacturing technologies,” says Burger.

Importantly, the SAIW is an advocate for the promotion of robust standards, as this guarantees that local projects align with global quality benchmarks, thereby strengthening South African fabricators’ prospects, both locally and internationally.

Ups and Downs

The welding sector in South Africa is facing significant pressure, largely linked to the broader slowdown in construction and infrastructure development, says SAIW training manager Confidence Lekoane.

She cites national statistical service Statistics South Africa, which recently reported that manufacturing was the largest negative contributor to GDP in the first quarter of 2025, contracting by around 2%.

“This downturn translates into fewer large-scale structural welding projects, tighter operating margins and heightened competition among local fabricators,” she stresses.

Having said that, Lekoane emphasises that the sector has not stood still.

“In recent years, welding activity has shifted progressively away from traditional, large construction projects toward plant maintenance, repair and refurbishment work across mining, petrochemicals and heavy industry,” she explains.

Most importantly, the sector is increasingly tied to the energy transition, which has become a new growth driver.

“Projects for the Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme, embedded generation initiatives and grid expansion programmes are creating fresh demand for welded components, including wind towers, solar mounting structures, substation steelwork and balance-of-plant assemblies,” comments Lekoane.

Bringing Back Basics

Burger says the SAIW has noticed a significant increase in enrolments for its Competent Person and Welding Inspector Level 1 courses.

“To accommodate this growing demand, we have expanded the number of classes beyond the original schedule,” he says, adding that this encouraging trend highlights increased interest from both individuals and industry, and underscores the recognition of welding inspection as a strong pathway for career advancement.

Burger notes that there are several technological shifts reshaping welding, with both positive and disruptive implications for South Africa.

“These shifts include laser welding, which, while offering faster travel speeds, minimal distortion and higher precision than conventional arc welding, requires specialised equipment and advanced operator skills that are a potential barrier for smaller firms.”

Laser welding has become increasingly attractive in automotive, aerospace, energy and advanced manufacturing sectors.

He adds that the advent of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) training allows welders to practice in immersive, simulated environments without material waste or safety risks.

AR and VR consequently lower training costs, accelerate skills development and provide real-time analytics on technique.

However, their limitation, Burger stresses, is that they supplement but cannot fully replace live welding practice.

“Mechanisation, robotics and digital welding systems, which are technologies that are still in the infancy stages, will drive productivity and traceability and are slowly garnering more interest,” concludes Burger.