Nine PtSA Eastern Cape students have made history, becoming the first recipients of the new PtSA TDM Powered Apprenticeship Certificate after successfully completing four years of rigorous training in Tool, Die & Mould Making.
Developed and managed by PtSA in collaboration with local and international partners, the PtSA TDM Powered Apprenticeship is a competency-based programme aligned with industry standards. The certificate recognises apprentices who have successfully completed every component of this demanding four-year journey, meeting the programme’s theoretical, practical and on-the-job training requirements.
Congratulations to our pioneering graduates:
- Keenan Hendrick
- Collen Mpofu
- Blessings Phiri
- Pheliswa Plaatjie
- Oyama Patu
- Lilitha Xobongo
- Buhle Xosana
- Nela Mpendulo
- Lucecin Cengeni
More Than a Qualification
This Certificate is not simply a record of attendance. It reflects years of commitment, perseverance and practical learning. It confirms that each apprentice has successfully completed the theoretical, practical and workplace requirements of one of South Africa’s most comprehensive tooling apprenticeship programmes.
Alongside their SAQA-recognised qualification, every graduate has completed a programme designed to prepare them for real industry from day one, including:
- Internationally recognised NIMS certifications
- Rotational On-the-Job Training (OJT) across industry partners
- ToolingU-Learn competency-based online learning
- Practical workshop training at PtSA Centres of Excellence
- Theoretical training delivered under industry-selected supervision
- Soft skills development for professional success
- Social support services provided by qualified social workers
- Remedial Mathematics, Science and English where required
Together, these elements produce graduates who are not only technically competent but workplace ready.
Ready for Industry
While the Red Seal Trade Test remains a formal SAQA requirement that will follow in due course, these graduates have already demonstrated the competencies required by industry.
As far as PtSA is concerned, they have earned their place.
The Red Seal will provide the final national recognition, but it will simply confirm what their training has already proven: they are ready.
Celebrating Success with Industry
The certificates were presented during the recent Breakfast @ PtSA Eastern Cape TDM Industry Networking Event, where manufacturers, toolmakers, automotive suppliers and industry leaders gathered to celebrate this significant achievement.
There could hardly have been a more fitting audience.
These graduates represent exactly what the South African manufacturing sector needs: highly skilled young artisans entering the industry with practical experience, internationally benchmarked competencies and the confidence to contribute from day one.
Thank You to Our Funders
This achievement would not have been possible without the continued support of our funding partners:
- DEDEAT
- the dtic
- ECDC
Their investment in skills development is helping to build a stronger manufacturing sector while creating meaningful career opportunities for South Africa’s next generation of artisans.
Looking Ahead
To our graduates: congratulations on reaching this remarkable milestone. The skills you’ve developed, the experience you’ve gained and the determination you’ve shown will serve you throughout your careers. We look forward to seeing the impact you make on our industry.
To employers: these graduates represent the future of South African tooling. They are ready to contribute, innovate and strengthen local manufacturing.
And to prospective apprentices and their families: this is what is possible when you choose a career in the Tool, Die & Mould industry. It is a pathway built on practical skills, recognised qualifications and real opportunities.
Applications Are Now Open
Applications for the next PtSA TDM Powered Apprenticeship intake are officially open.
If you, or someone you know, is ready to build a future in advanced manufacturing, now is the time to apply.
Online applications close on 14 August 2026.
Register now at www.ptsa.co.za
