In a historic move, RMI has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT’s) Department of Marketing, Supply Chain and Sport Management. This allows players within the automotive retail aftermarket to further their studies with a Diploma in Retail Business Management.
Three-year, fully online qualification
This three-year, fully online qualification has been developed by RMI, and targets RMI members and their employees. Dr Elizma Wannenburg, Head of the Department of Marketing, Supply Chain and Sport Management at TUT, confirmed that everything is in place for the official commencement of this programme in July 2023.
A first for the industry
RMI’s Jakkie Olivier says that the course represents a first for the industry. He is particularly excited about the possibilities allowed by the qualification’s online delivery mode, which makes it accessible to industry members throughout the country. It also means that students can fulfil their course obligations and upgrade their knowledge, while still working.
Jakkie adds that growing the skills base within the industry is certain to have knock-on benefits for the economy at large, as upskilled employees enjoy higher productivity and satisfaction levels, as well as higher retention rates. At the same time, there is noted demand for skilled managers in the retail sector of the automotive aftermarket, at a time when unemployment figures are running high. This qualification gives industry members an opportunity to distinguish themselves and take advantage of new opportunities.
Grants and bursaries
RMI is looking forward to forming partnerships with sector training authorities, RMI constituents, and TUT to offer grants and bursaries for the diploma further down the line.
Applications open shortly
Olivier encourages employers within the motor sales, motor parts, equipment as well as tyre sales sectors to actively promote this unique opportunity by identifying potential candidates that can form part of the first cohort of students. Applications will open soon and space within this specialised qualification is limited, hence he encourages employers to actively engage with staff to avoid disappointment.
Details
All details can be found in the brochure which you can download here.