Commitment to nurturing SA’s next generation of engineers and artisans.
(left to right): Jaco Opperman, Principal at Katlehong Engineering School; Mervyn Naidoo, Group CEO at ACTOM; Tony Mfubesi; Sylvester Makamu, ACTOM’s executive director. Supplied by ACTOM
In South Africa’s engineering and manufacturing sector, the availability of skilled artisans and engineers remains a critical challenge. Recognising this, ACTOM has taken a proactive stance, investing in learners from an early stage to build both competence and confidence. By creating a structured journey from school to career, the company is helping to strengthen the country’s technical talent pipeline while empowering young South Africans with opportunities for professional growth.
Early engagement to secure technical careers
ACTOM’s journey into skills development began with a tutoring programme in mathematics and science for matric learners. However, the company soon realised that intervention at Grades 11 and 12 was often too late: many students had already dropped key subjects, limiting their access to technical careers or tertiary studies.
“We shifted our focus to Grade 9 learners. This is when students are choosing subjects and shaping their confidence. Engaging them early allows us to keep career pathways in technical fields open,” explains Sylvester Makamu, ACTOM’s executive director.
Through this early engagement, ACTOM ensures learners remain motivated and supported before critical subject decisions are made.
A structured path from classroom to career
The programme starts with participating schools nominating their top 20 learners. These students then join the ACTOM Maths and Science Tutoring Programme, receiving additional lessons, study guides, calculators and ACTOM-branded kits to reinforce their sense of inclusion and achievement.
Beyond academic support, students meet artisans, technicians and engineers who provide mentorship, career guidance and practical insight. Continuous engagement ensures learners stay on track and gain exposure to real-world engineering success stories.
Upon completing school, learners can pursue either an artisan apprenticeship at ACTOM’s training centre or university studies for those aiming to become engineers. Tuition, accommodation, study materials and practical experience during holidays are all covered by ACTOM, ensuring a seamless transition from education to employment.
Real stories, tangible impact
The programme’s effectiveness is illustrated through the journey of Tony Mfubesi.
“Before joining ACTOM, I struggled to afford school transport and supported my unemployed mother. I even sold sweets to make ends meet. ACTOM gave me engineering skills, discipline and an employment opportunity. Today I can support my mother, and I’m grateful for the chance,” Mfubesi recalls.
Through structured mentoring and hands-on training, learners like Mfubesi not only gain technical skills but also build resilience, independence and long-term loyalty to the company.
“When skilled employees are available and committed, it reduces turnover and contributes to a stronger industry,” Makamu explains.
Overcoming socio-economic barriers
Many learners face socio-economic challenges, including coming from child-headed households or financially constrained environments. ACTOM addresses these hurdles through practical support, mentorship, and access to social professionals, ensuring that the programme is inclusive and equitable.
“A skilled company is an empowered company. Our focus is not only on creating employees but also on nurturing entrepreneurship. Even if learners do not remain with ACTOM, they are equipped to create opportunities for themselves,” Makamu notes.
Lessons for sustainable skills development
ACTOM’s approach offers several takeaways for the broader engineering sector:
- Early intervention is critical: Engaging learners at Grade 9 helps retain key subjects and maintain motivation for technical careers.
- Holistic support drives success: Tutoring, mentorship, career guidance and practical interventions create lasting impact. Social impact extends beyond employment: Graduates are empowered with lifelong skills, fostering stability, entrepreneurship and loyalty.
By investing early and consistently, ACTOM is nurturing artisans and engineers who will underpin South Africa’s industrial future while helping the country address the skills gap in a sustainable, socially responsible way.
Source: ACTOM
