South Africa’s qualifications and skills development sector is experiencing a significant shift. The long-established Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) are transitioning their qualifications to the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO).
This pivotal change requires businesses and training providers to adjust to new standards and accreditation processes, ensuring alignment with occupational demands.
Understanding SETA and QCTO Roles
- SETAs have historically played a crucial role in sector-specific skills development, aligning training with industry needs and the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
- QCTO is focused on the design, implementation, assessment, and certification of occupational qualifications on the NQF, aiming for a more streamlined process that matches the evolving job market.
The QCTO was established to create a skilled and capable workforce which relates to:
- Developing quality-assured qualifications for the skilled and unskilled population
- Creating a strong labour market
- Contributing towards the improvement of the economy of the country
- Addressing the shortage of artisans and professionals in the country
- Accrediting skills development providers for occupational qualifications that are offering the QCTO occupational qualifications.
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An Occupational qualification is a qualification associated with a trade, occupation or profession resulting from work-based learning. Occupational qualifications make work experience an important part of learning.
Why a QCTO qualification?
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All QCTO qualifications have a work experience component that increases one’s probability of employability (Applied knowledge)
Key Dates and Their Implications
Businesses should take note of the following important dates:
- June 30, 2024: Deadline for enrolling learners in SETA-based qualifications.
- June 30, 2027: Recognition of SETA qualifications ceases.
After these dates, existing SETA qualifications will become legacy qualifications, necessitating the development of new training materials and compliance with the QCTO accreditation process.
How the CSG Group Talent Division Can Support Your Transition
CSG Group Talent Division is prepared to support businesses through this transition with a range of services:
- QCTO Accreditation Guidance: Expert advice on meeting QCTO’s new standards and processes.
- Development of Training Materials: Creation of new training content that meets QCTO standards and aligns with specific occupational needs.
- Sector-Specific Training Solutions: Over 30 years’ experience allows for tailored, relevant, and practical training solutions.
- Ongoing Support and Consultation: Assistance through the complexities of transitioning from SETA to QCTO to ensure compliance and effective investment in employee development.
Conclusion
The transition from SETA to QCTO marks a significant shift towards streamlined, occupation-specific qualifications designed to meet the needs of a modern workforce. Although this change poses challenges, it also presents an opportunity for businesses to realign training strategies to the demands of the current job market. CSG Group Talent Division stands ready to ensure your business navigates this transition smoothly, keeping your workforce skilled, compliant, and competitive.
For more details on our services, visit our website or contact our team directly. Together, we will tackle these changes effectively, and with integrity, securing your business’s success in adapting industry-specific training strategies.
For more information, contact CSG Talent Division:
- Telephone: 011 794 2000
- Email: skillsinfo@csggroup.co.za
Website: www.csggroup.co.za