The makers of tomorrow – reviving skills, reimagining futures

With an urgent skills shortage threatening the long-term sustainability of South Africa’s furniture manufacturing sector, the South African Furniture Initiative (SAFI) is driving targeted interventions to secure the industry’s future. Through strategic partnerships, workplace-based learning, and youth-centred training programmes, SAFI is laying the groundwork for a new generation of artisans, designers and entrepreneurs.

“The industry is facing a critical shortage of skilled professionals in areas like upholstery, machining, cabinetmaking, finishing and CNC operation,” says Lynn Adonis, SAFI’s Administrative Manager. “If we don’t act now to train and retain talent, we risk losing both our competitiveness and our heritage of craftsmanship.”

Building a skills pipeline through education

SAFI’s approach begins with early engagement. While formal integration of woodworking into the basic education curriculum is still under exploration, SAFI is already working with TVET colleges and higher education institutions to promote uptake of sector-specific qualifications.

“We are developing contextualised learning material and linking it directly to the needs of the industry,” explains Adonis. “Our aim is to create a talent pipeline that not only fills existing gaps but also equips learners with future-facing skills.”

This includes facilitating access to qualifications aligned with the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO), connecting students to employers for workplace exposure, and ensuring that training remains relevant and practical.

Opportunities for industry participation

Manufacturers play a central role in SAFI’s skills development strategy. “Training must be practical and demand-driven,” Adonis says. “We need more manufacturers to come on board – whether it’s through hosting apprentices, mentoring students or collaborating on training plans.”

The benefits are clear. Participating companies gain access to trained talent tailored to their production needs. They can also upskill current employees through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Artisan Recognition of Prior Learning (ARPL), which allow experienced workers to formalise their skills and advance within the business.

“These interventions are not just about compliance,” says Adonis. “They directly contribute to productivity, quality and BBBEE performance. Plus, they are fully aligned with the national skills strategy and the Furniture Industry Master Plan.”

Real-world impact and job creation

SAFI is already seeing tangible results from its efforts. A notable partnership between two manufacturers – one providing theoretical training and the other offering hands-on experience – has laid the groundwork for a replicable model of dual-training. Rollout is anticipated by the end of July 2025, pending discretionary grant approval from the Fibre Processing and Manufacturing Sector Education and Training Authority (FP&M SETA).

Another success involves workplace learning placements for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students, allowing them to meet practical training requirements needed for trade testing and Red Seal certification. “This creates a win–win,” Adonis notes. “Employers can identify potential hires, and students are prepared for real-world jobs.”

Embracing innovation and entrepreneurship

In a rapidly digitising world, SAFI is also ensuring that skills development keeps pace with modern manufacturing trends. The organisation has submitted a discretionary grant application to research the impact of Fourth and Fifth Industrial Revolution (4IR and 5IR) on the furniture sector.

“We want to preserve traditional skills while introducing learners to computer numerical control (CNC), Internet of Things (IoT), and even AI applications,” says Adonis. “Innovation must become part of our DNA – it’s the foundation for a future-ready industry.”

To make the industry more appealing to younger generations, SAFI is promoting career opportunities through school outreach, career days and direct exposure initiatives. A proposed youth entrepreneurship programme – linked to the Basic Furniture Upholsterer Skills Programme (NQF Level 2) – is designed to teach unemployed youth and women not just upholstery, but also how to run a business.

“This programme is especially exciting,” says Adonis. “It focuses on upcycling, bespoke furniture, and sustainability – areas that really resonate with young people and current market trends.”

Removing barriers to entry

SAFI is actively removing barriers that may prevent manufacturers from participating. In the Western Cape, for example, SAFI is partnering with SMART Consulting and Northlink College to facilitate workplace placements for carpentry learners.

“There’s no cost to host learners,” Adonis confirms. “We offer full admin support and connect businesses with accredited assessors and moderators.”

This model will soon be expanded nationwide, with SAFI providing assistance in drafting agreements, creating learning plans and linking companies to SETAs and training providers.

Looking ahead, SAFI envisions a thriving furniture industry powered by a skilled, motivated workforce. “Our mission is to build an inclusive, skills-aligned sector that offers real opportunities to young people, women and artisans,” says Adonis.

Her message to furniture manufacturers is clear: “Your involvement is vital. By opening your factory floors to learners and investing in skills development, you’re not just training individuals – you’re shaping the future of our industry.”

To find out how your business can get involved in SAFI’s skills development programmes, visit www.southafricanfurnitureinitiative.co.za or email safi.admin@furnituresa.org.za. Alternatively, you can call SAFI on 011 888 0655.

ABOUT SAFI

The South African Furniture Initiative (SAFI), founded in 2016, is a collaborative industry-labour-government partnership committed to building a globally competitive, sustainable and inclusive furniture manufacturing sector. SAFI’s mission is to enhance growth, transformation and innovation through strategic partnerships, capacity-building, market intelligence and expanded market access. Its mandate includes upskilling artisans, mentoring mentors, promoting local excellence in design, facilitating market access both locally and abroad, and driving job creation. Through platforms like its employment portal, tender board and business directory, SAFI empowers manufacturers to connect, compete, and thrive in the modern marketplace.