Discussion | Artisan Awards 2026 | Are artisan careers the answer to SA’s unemployment crisis?

South Africa faces a striking contradiction: high unemployment on the one hand, and a shortage of skilled artisans on the other.

As the country marks Artisan Month, the focus is on changing perceptions around vocational careers and highlighting the opportunities available in the skilled trades.

The South African National Artisan Awards (SANAA) 2026 will celebrate some of the country's top performers, with the finalists being recognised in a ceremony on September 5.

But beyond the awards the bigger question is: can becoming an artisan offer young south africans a genuine pathway into employment, entreprenership, and economic independence.

Joining us to unpack these issues are Sabelo Buthelezi, Chief Director at the Department of Higher Education and Training, and Mamello Boboko, a SANAA finalist and bricklayer.


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