Skills Development

Why has there been so little uptake on the Verifier unit standard? And why has the SGB declined to renew this particular standard? Marietta van Rooyen believes that a Verifier plays an important role in the NQF system and proposes that the decision to discontinue it should be debated further.

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, the demand for customized training has never been more crucial. Companies are facing unique challenges that off-the-shelf training programs often fail to address.

In the landscape of skills development and training, unit standards have long served as the benchmark for quality and consistency. However, not all valuable learning experiences fit neatly into these predefined criteria. 

Learnerships are a popular form of vocational training in South Africa, providing individuals with the opportunity to gain practical skills and knowledge in a specific field while earning a stipend. This article aims to shed light on what learnerships are, their benefits, and how to apply for one.

The acronym stands for 'Sector Education and Training Authority' and there are 25 such organisations, each representing one section of the economy. In this article, we break down what the Seta is and what they do.

The role of Skills Development Facilitator (SDF) has been devised for the person acts as the liason between the company and the Seta. A skills development facilitator plays a crucial role in enhancing the capabilities of individuals and organizations.

The term ABET refers to Adult Basic Education and Training. Abet refers to education up to the equivalent of grade 9 (standard 7). Both literacy and numeracy are included in Abet.

Confused by all the 3 letter acronyms? We've published a guide to the help translate the acronym-speak you will hear from skills professionals!

In South Africa, learnerships are a popular pathway to employment, particularly for young people and those seeking to upskill. A number of issues have to be addressed prior to implementation of Learnerships.

Learnerships are structured training programs that combine practical work experience with theoretical learning. Learnerships are defined by a number of key principles.

A learnership contract is entered into between the learner, the training provider and the employer. Learnerships are structured training programs that combine practical work experience with theoretical learning.

Setas approve learnerships but before that a number of development stages have to be completed when learnerships are developed. Learnerships involve both classroom-based training and on-the-job experience.

Learnerships involve both classroom-based training and on-the-job experience. The assessment system used for a learnership should serve to promote quality training and give awards for achieved competencies.

Learnerships are designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge needed for specific occupations or industries. Grants from Setas and tax incentives are available to companies to encourage them to take on learners on learnerships.

In today's competitive business landscape, investing in employee development is essential for staying ahead. Training programs play a crucial role in enhancing skills, boosting productivity, and fostering a motivated workforce. 

As the role of the Skills Development Facilitator matures, their status in business will change. Should SDFs now be housed under the Human Resources profession ETQA and have a qualification before fulfilling the skills planning role?

Research shows that all learners, especially stressed employees, forget more and more of their learning material as the hours, days, and weeks go by. The biggest drop in retention happens soon after learning.

As the digital landscape evolves, voice search is becoming a vital part of online behaviour. Jacqueline van Rooijen, Business Growth Consultant and Director at Ycagel, emphasises that with the widespread use of smart speakers and virtual assistants, optimising content for voice search is now a necessity.

Skills Development has the power to transform individuals and companies. And, the eight-year partnership between Daly Credit Corporation and EduPower Skills Academy clearly illustrates this. These two companies have woven essential skills into the fabric of Daly’s operations, elevating the workforce and helping to combat youth unemployment. Their unwavering commitment to inclusive growth has raised the bar for what it truly means to invest in people.

Finance for non-financial managers refers to the essential understanding of financial principles, tools, and concepts that individuals without a formal finance background need to effectively participate in and contribute to financial discussions and decision-making within their organization.