The Tshwane Automotive Special Economic Zone’s (TASEZ) commitment to seeing young South Africans gain skills can be seen in the hub’s partnership in the Auvergne Skills Development Centre – a new training centre for young people in the furniture manufacturing sector.

TASEZ and Auvergne Designs have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to establish a strategic partnership, particularly in regard to skills training. “Young people hold the country’s economic future in their hands,” said TASEZ CEO, Dr Bheka Zulu.

Skilled workers are critical to every sector within South Africa’s economy; being the primary drivers for industrialisation and economic growth.

The MoU includes a number of areas where the partnership will be invaluable, including:

• Creating black industrialists in the automotive manufacturing sector;
• Revitalising township economies;
• Business incubation and coaching;
• Small, medium and micro enterprise (SMME) development; and
• Programmes that advance knowledge in automotive design and concept development.

All these elements will promote transformation within the automotive manufacturing sector, as expressed in the South African Automotive Masterplan (SAAM), which lists a number of objectives and goals the industry needs to see happen by 2035.

Key goals in the SAAM are the localisation of labour and materials; encouraging access to the sector for previously disadvantaged businesses and communities; the embracing of new technologies; and the development of local and regional markets.

The skills development centre was officially opened on 24 March 2024 by the MEC for Economic Development Tasneem Motara, who noted that the initiative “fosters employment opportunities within the furniture manufacturing sector”.

Skills training can boost economic growth and change lives, Motara added.

The curriculum of the training centre, based in Rosettenville, Johannesburg, covers a diverse range of skills ranging from upholstery to carpentry, from furniture design and making to building new ventures.

The launch of the Auvergne Skills Development Centre also saw the first cohort of trainees begin their year-long course in upholstery.

Along with the furniture refurbishment training, the group will also undergo training in new venture creation – a critical skill required for anyone wanting to start their own businesses, including SMMEs. As a partner, TASEZ stands ready to support youth development, unlocking access to workplace opportunities, providing mentorship, and encouraging local communities to develop their own businesses.