National Qualifications Framework Act, 2008 (Act No. 67 of 2008)

Notices

Policy and Criteria for Credit Accumulation and Transfer (As amended, 2022)

4. Background
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4.1 The NQF is a single integrated system that comprises three qualifications sub-frameworks, coordinated by SAQA, as follows:
(a) the HEQSF overseen by the CHE,
(b) the GFETQSF overseen by Umalusi, and
(c) the OQSF overseen by QCTO.

 

The NQF structure recognises the distinctions and relations between various knowledge and skills domains in the basic, higher, vocational and occupational NQF sub-framework contexts.

 

4.2 The GFETQSF is constituted as a register of qualification types (general and vocational), some with designated variants, and each consisting of combinations of various subjects, each of which is supported by a prescribed curriculum and is subject to external national assessment. Umalusi sets and maintains standards through the quality assurance of the intended, enacted and assessed curricula. These standards relate to domains of knowledge and associated skills, and to the curriculum and assessment practices through which they are achieved.

 

4.3 Umalusi’s Policy for the General and Further Education and Training Qualifications Sub-framework (2014) outlines the nature and extent of the qualifications on the GFETQSF and supports the building of a common understanding of the relationships between qualifications. Through related policy, parameters for the design of national qualifications in the GFETQSF context are established. These parameters facilitate the general comparability of qualifications across the national system thus allowing for greater ease of access.

 

4.4 The GFETQSF comprises qualifications offered in formal education contexts.

 

4.5 All qualifications on the GFETQSF require the mastery of a body of (disciplinary) knowledge and related skills.

 

4.6 Quality assurance of the delivery of GFETQSF qualifications forms an intrinsic part of the development of the system of basic education as a whole, and of the GFETQSF specifically. Consequently, Umalusi monitors the implementation and quality assures those qualifications that it has registered on the GFETQSF. Umalusi certifies qualifications it has quality assured in accordance with the applicable policies.