Outstanding artisans from across the country have advanced to the national stage of South Africa’s premier artisan recognition programme, the South African National Artisan Awards (SANAA) 2026.
According to SANAA, the finalists include outstanding students from Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges across the country, among them Daniel Meyburgh from Port Elizabeth TVET College and Masixole Vutela from King Hintsa TVET College in the Eastern Cape.
This year’s awards will be held under the theme ‘Changing Artisanal Identity and Status’ a theme that seeks to challenge outdated perceptions of artisans.
The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) emphasised that the awards aim to recognise artisans not just as skilled workers, but as innovators and entrepreneurs who play a vital role in driving economic growth in South Africa’s future.
In addition, organisers said the finalists were selected through a rigorous adjudication process involving industry experts and sector stakeholders, having demonstrated exceptional skill, professionalism and commitment to their trades.
The awards cover key trades including engineering, automotive, construction, electrical, plumbing and mechanical disciplines, while also celebrating outstanding TVET college graduates entering the workforce.
Minister of Higher Education and Training, Buti Manamela, emphasised that the Department has worked closely with TVET colleges, Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), the National Artisan Moderation Body and private sector partners to expand artisan training.
“Changing Artisan Identity and Status is not just a theme, it is a call to action,” Manamela said.
He added that it means reshaping societal attitudes so that artisans are respected as builders of nations, innovators and drivers of industrialisation and local economic development.
Furthermore, the Department noted that, “Artisans play a vital role in economic growth, industrial development and infrastructure delivery, keeping industries operating and supporting job creation across the country.”
However, as the finalists prepare for the national stage, SANAA 2026 highlights the growing importance of artisans in building South Africa’s economy.
The awards aim to inspire more young people to pursue artisan careers and recognise them as skilled professionals, innovators and drivers of the country’s future.
Courtesy of IMAGE: Supplied
Sithabile Sambela & Okuhle Nqana
27 August 2026
Leave a Reply