The move towards occupational qualifications is positive because it recognises that education must connect more directly with the world of work.
South Africa’s move to modernise its post-school qualifications system is designed to produce graduates with skills that are more closely aligned to the needs of employers.
However, an education provider says the success of the reforms will depend on how clearly they are communicated to learners.
The comments follow Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela’s recent announcement of transitional arrangements as government phases out qualifying pre-2009 “legacy” qualifications in favour of occupational qualifications that place greater emphasis on practical workplace skills.
Government has stressed that qualifications already obtained under the previous system remain valid and officially recognised, seeking to allay concerns among learners and employers.
