AIDC drives youth empowerment in Gauteng automotive sector
This event was an opportunity to report on the people, Partnerships and policies shaping the future of youth empowerment and industrial development in Gauteng.
As the automotive landscape shifts towards sustainability and technology, empowering youth is crucial for driving progress and shaping the industry’s future.
The Automotive Industry Development Centre (AIDC), in collaboration with the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency, hosted a youth stakeholder engagement at AIDC Rosslyn Automotive Supplier Park on May 30.
This high impact event brought together 180 youth delegates, key government leaders, and industry stakeholders to explore career pathways, enterprise opportunity, and inclusive growth within the automotive and allied sectors
Different motor dealerships, including Nissan, Ford, and BMW, held presentations showcasing opportunities, skill requirements, bursaries, and learnerships available within their companies.
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AIDC CEO Andile Africa outlined opportunities offered by the AIDC for youth.
“AIDC’s Automotive Learning Centre teaches young people robotic programming, vehicle assembling, and mechatronic skills. We are at the cutting edge of training young people and preparing them for new ways of working.”
He mentioned that they also work closely with graduates from TVET colleges and universities, training them in skills specific to the automotive industry.
MEC for Finance and Economic Development Lebogang Maile emphasised in his keynote address that Gauteng province leads in industrial development and innovation.
“The central pillar of this growth is the automotive sector, which is the key driver of job creation, technological advancement, and export performance.”
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Dikeledi Madondo from the Skills Development Service Centre, Kgabo Cars, said: “We provide holistic development for cognitively challenged learners, training them to become motor and diesel mechanics. Some will also undergo personal development training.”
Trish Masango, a learner from Lethabong Maths, Science and ICT School of Specialisation (with a focus on automotive), shared her experience at AIDC: “The most important lesson I’ve learnt today is to never let anyone discourage you from pursuing your dreams.”
