South Africa’s tyre sector is set for a major overhaul with a comprehensive five-year plan aimed at addressing critical skills shortages. The South African Tyre Equipment Parts Association (TEPA) has unveiled its strategy to modernise training programmes, ensuring they meet the evolving demands of the industry and foster sustainable growth.
The initiative comes in response to the transition from South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) qualifications to Quality Council for Trades & Occupations (QCTO) occupational qualifications. This shift, while promising long-term benefits, has caused short-term challenges for skills development providers, particularly in enrolling new learners.
Bridging the Training Gaps
TEPA’s Training Committee leader, Angie Frederics, acknowledged the difficulties brought by the transition. “The phasing out of SAQA qualifications has left gaps, especially in critical programmes such as automotive servicing and tyre sales, which are not yet registered under the QCTO framework,” she said.
Currently, only two SAQA-approved programmes—Tyre Repairer (SP0561) and Wheel Alignment (SP0963)—remain accessible. Essential programmes like automotive diagnostics, tyre sales, and management training are pending QCTO registration, delaying the much-needed upskilling of professionals.
TEPA’s Five-Year Plan: A Strategic Approach
The five-year roadmap is designed to address these challenges systematically:
Year One: Modernising Legacy Programmes
TEPA will focus on aligning existing skills programmes with QCTO standards. The aim is to update content to reflect current and future industry needs.
Year Two: Developing New Programmes
Efforts will be directed at creating fresh training modules to fill gaps in the current offerings. These new programmes will cater to the evolving demands of the tyre and automotive sector.
Year Three: Pilot Programmes
Selected fitment centres will serve as testing grounds for pilot programmes. These trials will refine the implementation process and address potential challenges.
Year Four: Nationwide Rollout
The finalised programmes will be launched across the country. This phase will involve collaboration with accredited training providers and fitment centres to ensure effective delivery.
Year Five: Outreach and Recruitment
TEPA plans to run marketing campaigns to encourage participation from industry professionals and attract new talent. The focus will be on creating clear career pathways within the tyre sector.
Collaboration and Commitment
The success of this initiative will depend on collective action. TEPA has pledged to work closely with stakeholders, including merSETA and accredited training providers, to meet the industry’s skill demands.
“The tyre sector is a vital part of South Africa’s economy. By addressing skills shortages, we can create more opportunities, ensure future sustainability, and foster inclusivity,” Frederics concluded.
