The Workplace-Based Learning (WPBL) Forum successfully hosted a strategic capacitation workshop on 14 May 2026, bringing together representatives from TVET Colleges across the Northern and Western Cape, Workplace-Based Learning departments, industry partners, SETAs, and external stakeholders to engage on the future of Occupational Qualifications within the TVET sector.
Hosted under the theme “Out with the Old, In with the New,” the workshop focused on strengthening collaboration and preparing institutions for the ongoing transition towards QCTO-aligned Occupational Qualifications and Occupational Certificates (OC). The engagement created an important platform for meaningful discussions around workplace-based learning, industry alignment, quality assurance, compliance, monitoring processes, and the evolving occupational education landscape.
The programme unpacked several key topics currently shaping the sector, including:
- The transition from legacy qualifications to Occupational Qualifications
- Roles and responsibilities in Occupational Certificate implementation
- Monitoring and evaluation processes
- Workplace approval requirements
- Assessment and EISA requirements
- Risk-based monitoring frameworks
- Industry partnerships and economic alignment
- Compliance expectations and implementation readiness
- Best practices and challenges within workplace-based learning implementation.
Delegates had the opportunity to engage with sector experts and presenters, including Mr Jeremy Schuster, Implementation Partner, and Mrs Nomalungelo Qaqa, Deputy Director: Quality Assurance, who shared valuable insights into system readiness, accreditation requirements, institutional compliance, and the importance of responsive workplace-based learning systems.
During the workshop, discussions highlighted the critical role Occupational Qualifications play in producing a capable and employable workforce. Presenters unpacked the full QCTO value chain, from qualification development and accreditation through to learner enrolment, workplace learning, assessment, certification, and ultimately, employability and entrepreneurship opportunities for students.
A strong focus was also placed on compliance and institutional readiness. Stakeholders were reminded that accreditation requirements extend beyond documentation and must be actively implemented in practice. Discussions emphasised the importance of maintaining valid Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with workplaces, implementation plans, learning matrices, learner tracking systems, and structured workplace learning opportunities aligned to qualification requirements.
The workshop further highlighted the importance of Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) compliance, functional industry partnerships, and realistic programme implementation timelines aligned with occupational qualification standards. Presenters stressed that successful workplace-based learning implementation requires continuous collaboration between colleges, industry partners, SETAs, and quality assurance bodies.
Speaking at the event, Forum Chair and Deputy Principal: Registration Services at Boland College, Mrs Wendy Adams, emphasised the value of continuous sector engagement and collaboration. “Workplace-Based Learning remains one of the most important bridges between education and the world of work. As the sector continues transitioning towards Occupational Qualifications, it is essential that colleges, industry partners, and stakeholders work together to ensure that our systems, processes, and partnerships remain responsive, relevant, and student-centred. Discussions like these allow us to share knowledge, strengthen compliance and quality assurance practices, address challenges collectively, and ultimately improve opportunities for students entering the workplace,” said Adams.
The workshop also reinforced the growing importance of Occupational Qualifications in ensuring that education and training remain aligned to industry demands, local economic needs, and national skills development priorities.
The WPBL Forum reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening partnerships, promoting best practices, and supporting colleges as they continue navigating the transition towards a more responsive, industry-driven, and quality-focused occupational education and training system in South Africa.