The Mercedes-Benz Learning Academy has become South Africa’s first accredited Trade Test facility for Mechatronics, marking a significant milestone in artisan development and technical education.
The accreditation positions the Mercedes-Benz Learning Academy (MBLA) at the forefront of skills development in an increasingly automated and digitally driven economy.
Mechatronics is an interdisciplinary trade that integrates mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, electronics and control systems. The qualification equips artisans with the technical competencies required to operate, maintain and troubleshoot advanced automated technologies.
An accredited trade test centre is authorised to formally test, assess and certify artisans, ensuring they meet nationally recognised trade standards.
The qualification, newly introduced by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), was developed by the National Artisan Moderation Body (NAMB), the regulatory entity within the department responsible for moderating artisan trades.
Following rigorous pilot projects conducted in August 2024 and September 2025, the qualification was accredited by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO), which oversees occupational qualifications, accredits training providers and trade centres, and sets national quality standards.
MBLA was selected by NAMB as the national pilot centre, a recognition of its world-class facilities and state-of-the-art equipment that meet stringent accreditation requirements. The academy also partners with MerSETA and other government bodies to deliver certified artisan training and trade testing.
Commenting on the achievement, Thapelo Lakaje, Head of Human Relations at Mercedes-Benz South Africa (MBSA), said:
“Being selected as the country’s first Mechatronics Trade Centre underscores our dedication to world-class training is rooted in doing things the right way — taking the time to prepare artisans for the real expectations of the industry. We are proud of the commitment shown by every learner and instructor at MBLA, who bring consistency, care and pride into their work each day. Through their effort, a new chapter is being shaped and a lasting legacy is being built for the MBLA.”
Established in 1981 as one of South Africa’s first fully integrated multi-racial technical training centres, MBLA was transformed in 2016 through a Public-Private Partnership into a modern Learning Academy. The upgrade expanded facilities, trades and technological capability to support the evolving needs of the automotive sector.
Today, the academy is among the few centres in the Eastern Cape accredited to conduct trade tests for Electrician, Millwright, Fitter, Fitter & Turner, Automotive Motor Mechanic and Transportation Electrician qualifications.
For more than four decades, MBLA has contributed to building a strong artisan pipeline, supporting MBSA’s business model while addressing youth unemployment and skills development in South Africa.
