Established in 2018, the collaboration is testament to IMSAf’s commitment to narrowing the skills gap in the automotive sector by aligning academic learning with real-world industry needs. Through this partnership, students gain invaluable experience within a manufacturing environment at the IMSAf plant, equipping them with the skills required to meet the demands of the job market.

The programme is designed to deeply immerse students within the IMSAf manufacturing plant, allowing them to connect their academic learning with real-world industrial contexts. Through hands-on research and development on actual challenges, combined with dedicated mentorship and project support, students gain a holistic experience.

“Over the years, we have been able to empower Nelson Mandela University engineering students who have come through our system to develop innovative solutions, thereby building practical job-ready skills,” says Professor Theo van Niekerk, Head of the Mechatronics Department at the Nelson Mandela University. “This is largely owing to our collaboration with Isuzu Motors South Africa through our Chair of Mechatronics, which has allowed us to bridge the gap between academia and industry ensuring a seamless integration of our graduates into the world of work.”

The partnership has set an ambitious goal to reach and expose 400 students in the Mechatronics, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering fields by 2030, reinforcing its dedication to nurturing local talent and driving innovation.

“Our partnership with Nelson Mandela University is a critical part of our long-term vision to build a sustainable talent pipeline for the automotive industry in South Africa,” says Celestin Ndhlovu, Executive Vice President for the Corporate Services Division, Isuzu Motors South Africa. “By connecting academic knowledge with hands-on industrial experience, we are not only preparing students for the world of work but also inspiring them to become the innovators and problem-solvers of tomorrow. We are proud of the progress made, and we are committed to reaching our goal of impacting 400 students by 2030.”