On Tuesday 29 January 2013 the Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Blade Nzimande, will be addressing professional bodies on issues of access and articulation in the post-school education and training system which need to be given urgent attention as they are critical in the development of a skilled and capable workforce to support an inclusive growth path.
The Minister will be acknowledging 40 professional bodies who are the first group to be recognised in terms of the National Qualifications Framework Act of 2008. This is a momentous occasion for the education and training system, as well as for the country. South Africa is one of only a few countries in the world that has developed a systematic approach to the registration of professional qualifications and designations and the recognition of professional bodies.
Background
The Policy and Criteria for the Recognition of Professional Bodies and the Registration of Professional Designations have been developed by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) as part of its mandate to further develop and implement the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). Professional Bodies play a critical role in the NQF environment.
The recognition of professional bodies will contribute to strengthening social responsiveness and accountability within professions and promoting pride in associated professions. Forty professional bodies will be awarded their recognition certificates during the event.
Media briefing
The Chairperson of the SAQA Board, Mr. JJ Njeke, herewith cordially invites you to a media briefing that will be addressed by Minister Nzimande, the SAQA CEO, Mr Joe Samuels and himself on the recognition of professional bodies and registration of their professional designations on the NQF.
We look forward to your presence, and trust you will find the briefing most informing.
Details of the media briefing are as follows:
Date: 29 January 2013
Time: 11h00 for 11h30 to 12h00
Venue: Yellowwood Conference Room Birchwood Hotel, Kempton Park, Jhb
RSVP: Bridget Ndlovu on 078 291 4438/ Zanda Mhlana on 082 497 5963 (by 28 January 2013)
