Employee Rights

Project Dineo: Rebuilding South Africa's Motor Industry Talent

Elleck Mgiba
Expert AuthorityElleck Mgiba
Released2025-07-18
Reading Intensity2 min read
Project Dineo: Rebuilding South Africa's Motor Industry Talent

What is Project Dineo and who is behind it?

Project Dineo is a groundbreaking skills development initiative overseen by the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI) in partnership with merSETA and Harambee. Its goal is to identify and train high-potential South African youth for technical trades such as motor mechanics, diesel mechanics, and automotive body repair to solve the industry's critical skills shortage.

How does Project Dineo benefit motor industry employers?

For motor industry employers, Project Dineo provides a pipeline of vetted, work-ready technical candidates who have undergone accelerated training. Participating in this initiative also helps businesses earn B-BBEE Skills Development points, meet Employment Equity targets, and reduce the long-term costs of technical recruitment.

Project Goals

  1. Talent Identification: Finding aptitude in unemployed youth.
  2. Accelerated Training: Intensive technical skills development.
  3. Workplace Integration: Seamless placement into internships and permanent roles.

What is MIBCO's role in skills development projects?

As the bargaining council, MIBCO ensures that every learner and apprentice entering programs like Project Dineo is properly registered and that their training pathways align with the Main Collective Agreement. This oversight guarantees that the future workforce is both technically competent and fully aware of their rights and responsibilities.

How can your business join Project Dineo?

Businesses can join Project Dineo by contacting the RMI or merSETA to express interest in hosting interns or sponsoring technical trainees. By investing in youth specialized in trades like panel beating and spray painting, your firm contributes to the stability of the entire South African motor industry ecosystem.


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