South Africa's qualifications system has been one of the most important instruments of social and economic transformation since the dawn of democracy. For millions of South Africans, qualifications have opened doors that were once firmly shut. They have enabled access to employment, further learning, career progression and economic participation. They have helped build industries, strengthen public institutions and create opportunities for individuals, families and communities.
That is why discussions around the phasing out of legacy qualifications have understandably generated concern, uncertainty and, in some instances, anxiety among learners, graduates, training providers and employers.
Whenever people hear the words "phasing out", the immediate fear is that something valuable is being taken away. It is therefore important to state clearly and unequivocally that qualifications that have already been awarded remain valid and recognised.
No qualification that a person has earned through hard work, sacrifice and commitment suddenly loses its value because a new qualification has been introduced. The qualification remains recorded on the National Learners' Records Database and continues to form part of that individual's learning and career journey. This is a principle that government, SAQA and all our partners remain firmly committed to protecting.
