In its commitment to the socio-economic development of youth in the country, Nissan South Africa has partnered with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) to enhance the skills development of learners at the University of Johannesburg and 5 TVET Colleges.
Through the Motor Technology Enhancement Programme (MTEP), Nissan has handed over engine unit sets comprising of engines, gearboxes, and differentials valued over 2 million Rand to UJ and five TVET colleges (Technical Vocational Education and Training) based in Gauteng, Limpopo, and North-West.
“Nissan has embarked on a journey to support skills development and training in higher education institutions across South Africa, through actively supporting projects that are focused on resolving societal challenges. We’re committed to working to improve the lives of South Africans and communities in areas such as education, the environment and humanitarian aid,” says Kabelo Rabotho- Country Director at Nissan South Africa
It is widely known that the automotive industry is experiencing a chronic skills shortage, with reports that suggest that skills such as motor body repair and spray painting, petrol mechanics, diesel mechanics, welding, vehicle bodybuilding, and auto electrical are in the least supply.
Globally, it is estimated that the sector is set to face a shortage of 2.3 million skilled workers by 2025 and 4.3 million by 2030.
The aim of the MTEP is to enhance the colleges’ motor technology curriculum, with the intention of making them responsive to the needs of the ever-evolving automotive industry.
“Having Nissan South Africa as our partner in the journey towards establishing an up-to-date motor technical programme, with tools and state-of-the-art equipment is a dream come true for us.” says Dr Samuel Loyiso Gqibani, UJ’s Head of School for Mechanical and Industrial Engineering Technology.
In addition to UJ, the five TVET Colleges receiving the engine sets are: Tshwane North, Tshwane South, Waterberg, Vuselela, and Central Johannesburg. The MTEP will also donate an engine unit to UJ.
“The engines will provide experiential training to students who are studying automotive programmes in the Engineering Faculty, and this will enable lecturers to enhance learning by providing practical demonstrations and application of the subject content.” says Dr Thembi Tsibogo, Principal at Tshwane North College.
“Our approach as Nissan towards advanced teaching and skills development is informed by our commitment towards: advancing the United Nations Sustainable goal of Inclusive and Quality education, furthering the South Africa’s Automotive Masterplan 2035, which amongst others commits the industry towards the development of new technologies and skills, and Nissan’s own sustainability strategy pillar of realising a more inclusive society,” Rabotho added.
Rabotho concluded, “Today’s automotive technicians need to be equipped with the best in equipment and parts to ensure that their problem-solving skills and innovative capabilities are enhanced for the better. We trust these donations will add great value to the learners.”
