The Minister for Higher Education and Training was quick to reassure South Africans that the new Occupational Qualifications that are being rolled out, do not have any impact on those who have already achieved one of the qualifications that are now referred to as 'legacy qualifications'.
"This transition is not about invalidating qualifications that have already been received," reassured Minister Buti Manamela. "If you have a qualification it does not take it away. Every qualification that has already been awarded remains valid, recognised, and recorded on the National Learner Records Database," reassured Manamela.
The Minister went on to explain that the philosophy behind the new 'occupational qualifications' is that they include more focus on the workplace. "The previous qualifications favoured the classroom over the workshop," said Manamela. "What we are introducing are qualifications that guarantee practical experience and workplace placement. It is about modernising the system to make the 'skills revolution' a reality" he added.
The Minister explained that the new qualifications being introduced are referred to as 'occupational qualifications'. The aim is to be more focused qualifications that link more directly to jobs.
This will see the end of the Nated programmes that are well known - including N4, N6 and similar programmes. However students who are currently studying those courses will be given the time to finish their studies. This is referred to as a 'teach-out period'.
To avoid disruptions to young peoples' studies there will be some courses that will be extended and can still be studied for a year or more while they are replaced with new occupational quaifications.
Minister Manamela explained that the 'legacy courses' have been divided into categories, A to D. Category A courses will expire at the end of the month as they have already been replaced with a relevant new course. Category B courses will be considered, on a case to case basis, for an extension of between 6 and 24 months if they need them.
Category C courses are those that are required by legislation (for example health and safety requirements) will be extended for 3 years.
The remaining courses that fall under category D are those that may require an extension of up to 1 year if replacement courses are still being completed.
Manamela explained that a technical task team has been setup to oversee the transition process. It will identify and deal with bottlenecks that develop in the process.
The Minister said the department is working with Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), industry partners and government departments to expand workplace placement opportunities required for students to complete their National N Diplomas.
“The NATED Report 190-1 programmes require a separate approach because of their relevance within the education and training landscape. The department has already issued Circular TC 0134(b) outlining teach-out arrangements, achievement dates and learner support measures. Replacement occupational qualifications have already been developed and are being implemented,” Manamela said
