Efforts are being made to strengthen infrastructure delivery by creating more opportunities for artisans. This comes as part of wider moves aimed at increasing investment in skills development across South Africa.
The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (DPWI) is working with universities, technical institutions and industry partners to expand the country's pool of skilled artisans and improve the State's capacity to deliver major infrastructure projects.
Government Aims To Increase The Number Of Qualified Artisans
A key part of the department's strategy is the re-establishment of departmental workshops across the country, which will help accelerate artisan training and practical skills development.
Speaking at the 4th Annual Construction Business and Project Management (CBPM) Conference in Cape Town, DPWI Deputy Minister Sihle Zikalala highlighted the importance of collaboration between government, academia and the private sector.
He confirmed that a new Centre of Excellence will be launched at University of Cape Town to support innovation and skills development in the built environment sector.
The University of Cape Town will join other institutions that already host Centres of Excellence, including the University of Johannesburg, University of the Witwatersrand and Walter Sisulu University.
“The work that the institutions are doing is useful in ensuring that there is a coordinated approach and a seamless contribution to the body of knowledge which finds expression in practical implementation.
“We need greater collaboration between government, industry and other partners to accelerate delivery and scale of innovation,” Zikalala said.
Centres Of Excellence To Drive Innovation In Infrastructure Development
The Deputy Minister said stronger coordination between stakeholders is essential to address challenges related to infrastructure delivery, housing, procurement, sustainability and technological advancement.
He explained that the Centres of Excellence can play a significant role in promoting innovation, knowledge-sharing and practical solutions that support South Africa's built environment sector.
By bringing together experts from government, universities and industry, these centres are expected to help improve infrastructure planning and implementation nationwide.
South Africa Targets 30,000 Artisans Every Year
Government has set an ambitious target of training 30,000 artisans annually, a goal first announced by President Cyril Ramaphosa during the 2023 State of the Nation Address.
To help achieve this objective, the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure launched its Artisan Development Programme, which focuses on critical construction and engineering trades.
The programme includes training opportunities in:
- Bricklaying
- Welding
- Carpentry
- Painting
- Mechanical trades
- Fitter and turner occupations
- Electrical work
- Plumbing
- Boilermaking
These skills are essential for supporting South Africa's infrastructure development agenda while addressing shortages in the country's technical workforce.
Private Sector And SETAs Urged To Support Artisan Training
Zikalala called on businesses, higher education institutions and Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) to play a greater role in artisan development.
He noted that South Africa currently produces around 15,000 artisan graduates from technical colleges each year, only half of the government's annual target.
Increasing collaboration and investment in vocational education, workplace learning and apprenticeship opportunities will be critical to closing this gap.
The Deputy Minister said strengthening artisan training will not only improve infrastructure delivery but also create employment opportunities and support economic growth.
“Let us construct beyond buildings and roads, but hope, opportunity and lasting progress for generations to come,” Zikalala said.
Artisan Development Remains Key To Economic Growth
As South Africa continues investing in infrastructure projects, the demand for skilled artisans is expected to grow significantly.
Government believes that expanding artisan training programmes and building stronger partnerships between education institutions and industry will help create sustainable career opportunities while ensuring that the country has the skills needed to deliver critical infrastructure efficiently and effectively.
