Manamela Assures Pre-2009 Qualifications Remain Fully Valid

Manamela stressed that qualifications already awarded to learners and workers will continue to be recognised and recorded on the National Learners’ Records Database.

Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela has reassured South Africans that qualifications obtained before 2009 remain fully valid and officially recognised, despite ongoing reforms aimed at modernising the country's qualifications system. Speaking during a media briefing on developments related to the National Qualifications Framework (NQF), the Minister addressed concerns that older qualifications could lose their status as South Africa transitions to a new occupational qualifications framework.

Manamela stressed that qualifications already awarded to learners and workers will continue to be recognised and recorded on the National Learners' Records Database.

Legacy Qualifications Remain Recognised

The Minister emphasized that the transition is not intended to undermine qualifications that millions of South Africans have worked hard to achieve over many years.

According to Manamela, legacy qualifications have played an important role in workforce development and economic participation. The reforms are focused on modernising the system rather than replacing the value of existing qualifications.

He explained that the new occupational qualifications place greater emphasis on workplace experience and practical skills, creating stronger links between classroom learning and real-world employment requirements. The objective is to ensure that graduates leave training programmes with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on industry exposure.

NATED Students Encouraged to Continue Studies

Manamela also addressed concerns from students enrolled in National Accredited Technical Education Diploma (NATED) Report 190-1 programmes, assuring them that their qualifications will continue to be recognised throughout the transition process.

Students currently studying towards N4, N5 and N6 qualifications have been encouraged to continue their studies as planned. The department has already issued guidance on teach-out arrangements and learner support measures while replacement occupational qualifications are being rolled out.

The Minister noted that these programmes remain an important part of South Africa's education and training landscape and require a dedicated transition approach to ensure learners are not disadvantaged.

Government Expands Workplace Learning Opportunities

A major focus of the reforms is strengthening Work Integrated Learning (WIL), which allows students to gain workplace experience required for completing National Diplomas. Manamela revealed that the department has completed the verification process for students requiring 18 to 24 months of workplace-based training and is finalising funding arrangements for learner stipends through partnerships with industry and government institutions.

The Department of Higher Education and Training, supported by Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs), currently facilitates workplace placements for around 21,000 TVET students each year. Additional efforts are underway to increase placement opportunities through collaboration with employers, the National Skills Fund and industry partners.

The Minister urged learners, employers and training providers to rely on official information from the Department of Higher Education and Training, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) for accurate guidance on the transition process.

He reaffirmed that the reforms are designed to strengthen the qualifications system while protecting learners, preserving public confidence and improving employability outcomes for future generations.