WORLDSKILLS SOUTH AFRICA NATIONAL COMPETITION 2026
As the automotive landscape undergoes a rapid transformation – shifting toward advanced materials and digital integration – the demand for elite technical talent has never been higher. The spotlight fell on the Chief Albert Luthuli Durban International Convention Centre (DICC), where South Africa’s finest young artisans converge for the WorldSkills South Africa (WSZA) National Competition 2026.
This event is more than a contest; it is a high-stakes arena where the future of the South African workshop is forged.
Under the theme “Building a skilled and competitive workforce for the future,” over 200 competitors from TVET colleges, universities of technology, and private training providers will battle for the gold. For these young professionals, the stakes are international: winners will earn the prestigious honour of representing Team South Africa at the WorldSkills International Competition in Shanghai, China, in September 2026.
Spotlight on automotive excellence
For the automotive refinishing sector, three categories stand out as the “Formula 1” of vocational skills: Auto Body Repair and Car Painting.
Modern vehicle repair is no longer just about “beating out dents.” Today’s technicians must navigate complex structural blueprints, 3D measuring tools for diagnostics and sophisticated electronic sensors.
Competitors must demonstrate mastery in panel replacement, structural alignment, and welding techniques that meet strict Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) standards. Precision is Key: The ability to restore a crash-damaged vehicle to its exact factory specifications is a blend of mechanical engineering and manual dexterity.
Car painting: the art of the finish
Often described as a blend of science and artistry, the Car Painting category requires an incredible eye for detail. In an era of tri-coat pearls and matte finishes, matching a colour is a digital and visual challenge. Competitors are also judged on their ability to prepare surfaces invisibly, ensuring that the final clear coat is mirror-smooth and free of any defects.
Sustainability: Modern standards emphasise the use of greener material and the reduction of waste, reflecting the industry’s shift toward “greener” workshops. While the roar of the automotive refinishing section is a major draw itself, the WSZA Nationals is a massive multidisciplinary event featuring 27 different skills. The DICC will be a hive of activity across various sectors:
Manufacturing and Engineering: Skills like Welding, Mechatronics, and Mechanical Engineering CAD showcase the backbone of South African production. Information Technology: Categories such as Cloud Computing and Cyber Security highlight the digital infrastructure that now powers every dealership and OEM. Service and Construction: From Plumbing and Heating to Bricklaying, the competition covers the full spectrum of the South African economy
Why this matters for South Africa
The National Competition serves as a vital bridge between education and industry. With organisations like the Collisions Repair Association (CRA) and the South African Motor Body Repairers’ Association (SAMBRA) championing these standards, the event highlights the “Decade of the Artisan” initiative.
By having experts like Neo Motshabela (ABR – C3 Autobody Repair Academy), Wayne Branden (Car Painting – BASF), as well as all other experts from industry and training involved – such as Garth Henson (Auto Mobile Technology), the industry can benchmark South African training against the best in the world. If our students can win in Shanghai, it will be a great showing that our workshops can compete with any global repair centre.
For the automotive magazine reader, this event is a glimpse into the next generation of employees. These are the technicians who will be handling your high-tech EVs and complex luxury finishes in the years to come.
Training hubs and academies across the country – from the Western Cape to the Free State, all the way to Limpopo – are currently fine-tuning their candidates’ skills. The level of preparation seen this year suggests that South Africa is ready to make a significant impact on the global stage in Shanghai. The 48th WorldSkills Competition will be held in Shanghai, China from September 22nd to September 27th, 2026.
WorldSkills SA Results
Mesuli Nande Gxalaba from Technicolour Autobody Repair in Bloemfontein won gold, Setlhare Onthatile – also an apprentice from Technicolour took silver, and Sizwe Motaung from B&H in Bloemfontein placed third receiving a bronze medal.
The gold and silver medalists will receive training in preparation for Shanghai, but only the gold medalist will compete. If Mesuli is unable to attend, then Setlhare will take his place.
Story by: Neo Moshabela
