The South African government has reaffirmed its commitment to technical skills development following the graduation of 600 refrigeration and air-conditioning servicing technicians and 35 trainers.
Speaking in Johannesburg, Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Bernice Swarts highlighted the importance of skills development in driving economic growth and sustainability.
“Skills development in the refrigeration and air-conditioning sector contributes to inclusive economic growth, job creation, and a transition towards a low-emissions economy,” she said.
Partnerships Driving Skills Development
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has partnered with the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), the Department of Employment and Labour (DEL), and the Department of Higher Education and Training to strengthen technical training in South Africa.
These partnerships led to the development of the National Implementation Strategy for Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning (RAC) service technicians in 2015, as well as the RAC Servicing Technician Training Programme.
Focus On Environmental Sustainability
The training programme is aligned with South Africa’s commitment to environmental protection, particularly the phase-out of harmful substances used in refrigeration systems.
Efforts are focused on eliminating Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), especially HCFC-22, in line with the global Montreal Protocol. The programme also promotes the use of environmentally friendly alternatives with lower global warming potential.
Training sessions were conducted in Johannesburg and Durban, with participants representing all nine provinces.
Plans To Expand Training Opportunities
The government plans to extend the programme to reach even more individuals in the sector.
“Looking ahead, the DFFE will expand training interventions to 800 more technicians operating within the informal servicing sector. This will support standardisation of practices, improved compliance, and further reductions in Hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) consumption.
“These interventions further advance national development priorities, including decent work, poverty alleviation, quality education, and gender equality, with increased participation of women in the initiative,” Swarts said.
Importance Of The RAC Sector
The refrigeration and air-conditioning sector plays a critical role in South Africa’s economy. It supports key industries such as food security, healthcare, manufacturing and climate-controlled work environments across both the public and private sectors.
Commitment To The Montreal Protocol
Swarts reiterated government’s commitment to implementing the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer.
“The Government of the Republic of South Africa, through the department, remains firmly committed to the effective implementation of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer.
“This landmark multilateral environmental agreement regulates the production and consumption of controlled substances through legally binding measures,” she said.
Protecting The Ozone Layer
The Deputy Minister stressed that protecting the ozone layer remains essential for both national and global wellbeing.
Ozone-depleting substances increase exposure to harmful ultraviolet radiation, which can negatively impact human health, agriculture and ecosystems.
“Through sustained compliance with Montreal Protocol obligations, South Africa has achieved a marked reduction in the consumption of ozone-depleting substances used in refrigeration and air-conditioning applications.
“We continue to manage the phase-out of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) in line with internationally agreed schedules and nationally approved control measures. I am confident that the 2026 reduction target of 97.5% of the baseline consumption will be achieved,” Swarts said.
This initiative highlights the government’s ongoing efforts to develop technical skills, support job creation, and promote environmental sustainability in South Africa.
Additional reporting from SANews.gov.za
