The inaugural SANAA launch with a bold and transformative theme: “Changing Artisanal Identity and Status.” This ground-breaking event marks the beginning of a new era in recognising and celebrating South Africa’s artisans—those whose skills and craftsmanship are vital to the nation’s economic and cultural fabric. The first-ever SANAA ceremony will take place on 06 September 2025 at the prestigious Birchwood Hotel, Johannesburg. The event will bring together artisans, educators,
policymakers, and industry leaders to honour the individuals shaping South Africa’s artisanal future.
Empowering Artisans, Building the Nation
The SANAA are guided by a clear mission: to recognise and celebrate the contributions of artisans in high-demand trades across South Africa. The vision is to build a quality, responsive artisanal workforce that meets the evolving needs of the economy while preserving the rich traditions of craftsmanship. This year’s theme, “Changing Artisanal Identity and Status,” reflects a strategic shift
toward repositioning artisans as respected professionals and entrepreneurs. It challenges outdated perceptions and promotes the value of technical skills in shaping South Africa’s future.
“Artisans are the backbone of our economy. Through the Awards, we are not only celebrating their skill—we are rewriting the narrative of what it means to be a tradesperson in South Africa,” said Mr. Samuel Zungu, Deputy Director General, Department of Higher Education and Training Strategic
The Awards aim is to:
- Promote and preserve artisan skills and crafts.
- Inspire increased enrolment in artisanal fields.
- Acknowledge exceptional talent and mastery.
- Support artisans in building their identity and professional status.
- Encourage TVETpreneurs as a pathway out of poverty.
- Raise public awareness of the importance of trades.
- Shift perceptions of the TVET College sector from inferior to essential.
National Context and Skills Development
South Africa is undergoing a transformative development programme aimed at inclusive economic growth. A skilled workforce is central to this vision, yet a mismatch persists between the skills required and those available in the labour market. The Post School Education and Training (PSET) system, particularly TVET Colleges, is positioned to bridge this gap. The National Development Plan (NDP) has set a bold target: 30,000 artisans per year by 2030. In response, the Centre of Specialisation (COS) Programme, launched in 2019 by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), has made significant strides:
- Expanded from 28 to 53 Centres across 23 TVET Colleges.
- Invested R257 million in infrastructure.
- Trained 5,000 artisans, with a 97% trade test pass rate.
- Established 37 new accredited Trade Centres.
- Integrated into the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan (ERRP).
Celebrating Excellence and Inspiring the Future
The SANAA are more than a celebration—they are a strategic intervention to:
- Elevate the status of artisans.
- Showcase the success of government initiatives.
- Inspire youth to pursue careers in trades.
- Reinforce the role of TVET Colleges as engines of economic empowerment.
As South Africa builds toward a more inclusive and resilient economy, the SANAA stand as a
beacon of recognition, inspiration, and transformation.