In the October SAIRAC Johannesburg Centre online Tech Talk hosted by Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Academy (ACRA) owner Grant Laidlaw, the future of air conditioning and refrigeration training was a central theme. With the legacy trade tests already phased out since June 30, 2024, the discussion focused on the transitional landscape and emerging qualifications in the industry.
This is the transcript of the presentation, edited by Eamonn Ryan, and is Part 7 of a 9-part article.
Grant Laidlaw. © RACA Journal
Financial incentives for companies
Laidlaw highlighted the available SARS rebates for companies employing apprentices. Organisations can claim rebates at the start of the apprenticeship and upon successful completion. This could result in significant savings, such as R800 000 for a company taking on multiple apprentices.
He also noted that training grants remain accessible, with managerial grants typically at 20% of the company’s skills development expenditure. However, the efficiency of accessing these grants can vary widely between different SETAs, leading to disparities in how easily companies can obtain funding.
This segment underscored the complexities of the new trade testing process and the potential financial benefits for companies engaged in apprenticeship programs. As Laidlaw mentioned, understanding and navigating these systems can enhance training outcomes and support the growth of skilled artisans in the refrigeration and air conditioning sectors.
In this segment, Grant Laidlaw discussed the intricacies of discretionary grants, learnerships, and the current state of legacy trade tests, highlighting the challenges and changes within the training and certification landscape.
Discretionary grants overview
Companies can apply for discretionary grants, with an opening anticipated in November. For apprenticeships concluding with a trade test, grants range from R179 000 to R206 000 including combined with SARS rebates, this can represent a significant financial incentive. Stipends for apprentices vary depending on industry standards; for instance, the metal industries have established payment structures, with some apprentices earning around R2 500.
For learnerships registered before June 30, 2024, learners can complete up to Level 4, qualifying them for trade tests. However, after this date, no new learnerships or unit standard-based qualifications will be registered. Providers still operating under the old learnership system will receive extensions until their learners exit, but no new legacy apprenticeships will be accepted after June 2024.
This transition poses significant challenges, particularly in the refrigeration, mining, and mechanical industries, as many apprentices are left without pathways to qualification. Laidlaw noted that trade unions are increasingly concerned about this issue, as thousands of apprentices risk being unable to complete their qualifications.
Options for legacy apprentices
For apprentices with four or more years of experience, companies can rescind their apprenticeship agreements, allowing them to take a Section 26 trade test. Importantly, the Department of Higher Education has removed any discriminatory clauses from certificates, ensuring that all apprentices are treated fairly. However, Laidlaw advised acting quickly for those considering this option, as the current legacy trade test system is set to change.
