The Gauteng Department of Economic Development and the Automotive Industry Development Centre (AIDC) hosted a major Youth Stakeholder Engagement on Friday, 30 May 2025, in Tshwane.
The gathering united young people, industry leaders, civil society, labour, and government to discuss the future role of youth in South Africa’s evolving automotive sector.
MEC for Finance and Economic Development, Lebogang Maile, led the event with a powerful keynote, emphasising the automotive industry’s importance in driving innovation, economic growth, and job creation. He referenced a strong 11.9% year-on-year rise in vehicle sales as proof of the sector’s resilience and highlighted the need for youth to be at the centre of its continued transformation.
Maile spotlighted the Tshwane Automotive City (TAC), an AIDC-led project that merges logistics, manufacturing, and skills development to grow local industry and regional trade. He stressed the need for youth to take the lead in areas like green mobility and digital innovation.
“Young people must not see this industry as closed off. Their skills, creativity, and energy are key to the industry’s future,” said Maile.
AIDC CEO Andile Africa echoed the call for youth empowerment, pointing to the agency’s training centres, learnerships, and township automotive hubs that support both employment and entrepreneurship.
The MEC urged youth to seize opportunities through bursaries, mentorships, and training, and called on private industry to work with government and civil groups to reduce unemployment and create inclusive growth.
As the province gears up for a greener, smarter automotive future, Gauteng is making it clear: the road ahead belongs to the youth.
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