Author(s): Samson Nambei Asoba and Nteboheng Mefi Patricia
Skills deficiency epitomise the South African labour market. It is, therefore, imperative to engage in inquiries into possible skills transfer and acquisition opportunities available to improve the situation. In this study, focus was made on the craft market in Cape Town. The craft industry accommodates many immigrants with diverse craft skills. The study involved interviews with craft entrepreneurs at a selected craft market. The results of the study demonstrated that immigrants and non-immigrants craft makers create an ecosystem that facilitate skills transfer among the craft makers. The results of the study demonstrated that immigrants and nonimmigrants create an interdependent social system that facilitates skills transfer through technology sharing, partnerships and relationships, personal observations as well as formal and non-formal observations. It is recommended, based on the results of the study, that craft entrepreneurs should strengthen their links with immigrants and be receptive and supportive of the craft ecosystem as it promote skills transfer.