SA needs 30 000 Artisans a Year but only trains 20 000: Experts Warn of Skills Gap

As South Africa grapples with high youth unemployment and a sluggish economy, the Southern African Institute of Welding (SAIW) says vocational and technical training could be key to reversing the trend. This is essential give that the National Development Plan calls for 30 000 qualified artisans to be trained annually by 2030, but currently, only around 20 000 are trained each year.

In light of this, SAIW Acting Executive Director Confidence Lekoane urges young people to reconsider the traditional university route and explore hands-on, skills-based careers that offer faster entry into the job market and, often, higher earning potential. “Vocational training courses are typically shorter, more practical, and allow students to start earning while they learn – something most university degrees don’t offer. In addition, many young people don’t realise that a qualified artisan can out-earn a university graduate in certain sectors,” she explains.

A shortage of skilled artisans

The shortage of artisans, especially welders, boilermakers or fabricators, is already holding back major infrastructure and industrial projects. According to Lekoane, the problem is made worse by the loss of skilled tradespeople to international markets, particularly in the U.S., Europe, and the Middle East. “South Africa is facing a serious erosion of its mentor base. Many experienced tradespeople who could train the next generation are leaving for better-paying jobs abroad,” she warns.

Lekoane says government efforts to expand TVET colleges and revive technical high schools are positive steps, but more needs to be done to change public perceptions and build a strong pipeline of skilled artisans. “We need to move away from the belief that university is the only path to success. Not everyone is academically inclined – and that’s okay. There’s a myth that artisans are stuck in blue-collar roles forever, but many go on to become supervisors, engineers, or business owners.”

Beyond job-readiness

However, it’s important to appreciate that vocational training extends beyond job readiness. It’s a catalyst for broader economic development. Welding, in particular, is considered an enabling technology because it underpins industries from construction and automotive to aerospace and energy.

It provides the strength and precision needed to build and maintain critical infrastructure. Advanced welding techniques also foster innovation by enabling lighter, more efficient designs. In addition, welding promotes sustainability by allowing for the repair and refurbishment of equipment, reducing waste.

In South Africa, this was seen during mega-projects like the construction of new power generation station , which employed hundreds of South African artisans. The project demonstrated how technical jobs can create ripple effects—generating employment for thousands of welders, boilermakers, technicians, and engineers.

Practical training that meets market needs

Lekoane stresses however, that training these types of skilled artisans, is not just about handing out certificates. “It’s about preparing students for real work in real-world conditions. Our programmes are therefore designed to meet industry demand and are continually updated to reflect market needs. For our practical welding courses, students spend about 80% of their time on welding machines and 20% in the classroom – ensuring they’re not just certified, but job-ready. To ensure our training stays relevant, we also work closely with industry to adapt our courses to what employers actually need,” she adds.

Looking to the future it’s clear that while government investment and education reform are essential, real change will only come when vocational paths are seen as just as viable and just as prestigious as university degrees.

“If South Africa is serious about tackling unemployment and growing its economy, then the country must invest in skills that actually build things namely technicians and artisans. That’s how we build South Africa – literally and economically,” Lekoane concludes.