National Qualifications Framework (NQF)
In 2008 the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Act No 67 replaced the South African Qualifications Authority Act No 58 of 1995. The NQF is a framework as it sets the boundaries, principle and guidelines on a national basis in order to integrate education and training into a unified structure of recognised qualifications. All education and training in South Africa fits within this framework. The NQF is therefore a set of principles and guidelines by which records of learner achievements are registered to enable national recognition of acquired skills and knowledge, thereby ensuring an integrated system that encourages lifelong learning.
There are three groups or classification bands making up the NQF:
- GET: General Education and Training
- Adult Basic Education and Training (AET)
- Compulsory Schooling up to Grade 10
- FET: Further Education and Training
- HET: Higher Education and Training
For more information about NQF, click here.