NQF Level & Government Jobs in SA | A Detailed Account

The government, which is broadly referred to as the public sector, is the biggest single employer in the labour market of South Africa.

The public sector comprises general government, including provincial, local, and national governments, as well as public corporations. 

Opting for a career in the South African public sector can be rewarding. That’s because it provides growth opportunities, job stability, and a chance to contribute meaningfully to society.

This article will serve as a guide and inform you about the relevant details on the NQF leveland public sector jobs.

NQF Levels Explained

Before moving on to the NQF levels list, let’s understand the meaning of NQF levels.

The NQF, or National Qualifications Framework, is a system used in South Africa to organise qualifications by the level of learning achieved and complexity. There are 10 different NQF levels. Each of these levels represents a different stage of training and education.

Now that you are aware of the NQF level meaning, here’s a look at the list of NQF levelsand their example qualifications:

• NQF Level 1: Grade 9 (General Certificate)
• NQF Level 2: Grade 10 or equivalent (Elementary Certificate)
• NQF Level 3: Grade 11 or equivalent (Intermediate Certificate)
• NQF Level 4: Grade 12 (Matric)
• NQF Level 5: Higher Certificate
• NQF Level 6: Diploma / Advanced Certificate
• NQF Level 7: Bachelor’s Degree / Advanced Diploma
• NQF Level 8: Honours Degree / Postgraduate Diploma
• NQF Level 9: Master’s Degree
• NQF Level 10: Doctoral Degree

Read about: What is a Master of Public Management programme?

NQF Levels & Career in the Government Sector 

There are several benefits of government jobs.One of them is that individuals can consider employment permanent until the age of 65, provided certain basic conditions are met.

A career in this sector is possible when individuals learns new skills that are relevant and in demand in government. One example of this is pursuing a programme in public management.

To progress in this sector, individuals must have a qualification of the required NQF level. Let’s take a look at these cases:

Case 1: Starting as a receptionist

An NQF Level 4 qualification (Grade 12 certificate) and a basic skill set, such as computer literacy and written and spoken English, can help one start as a receptionist in this sector. To progress further, individuals typically need to have higher qualifications and more skills.

Case 2: Entering at a Middle Management Service level (for example, Deputy Director)

A majority of the jobs at this level typically require candidates to have at least an NQF Level 7 qualification. 

In addition, candidates may need to have work experience at a junior management level of around 5 to 8 years in the private or public sector. Some jobs may also ask for specialised qualifications and registration with professional bodies.

Case 3: Entering at the Senior Management Service level (for example, Director and higher)

To enter at this level, candidates typically need to have an NQF Level 7 qualification. Along with it, relevant work experience of at least 5 years at the middle management level in the public or private sector would be required. 

Know about the Top Challenges in Public Management.

Study Public Management at Regenesys

A public management programme can open doors to employment opportunities in the government sector. If you are seeking a reputable institution to pursue such programmes, consider Regenesys. 

Regenesys has a legacy of over 25 years. The students studying here come from more than 180 countries. They also benefit from the global exposure that they receive here.

Some more reasons to consider Regenesys as your target institution are:

• Registered with the Department of Higher Education & Training 
• Over 100 faculty members who are spread out worldwide
• More than 500,000 alumni
• A state-of-the-art campus in Sandton
• Flexible learning options, including contact, online, and distance learning modes
• Financial assistance available

The various public management programmes offered at Regenesys are:

• Master of Public Management (MPM)
• Postgraduate Diploma in Public Management (PDPM)
• Bachelor of Public Management (BPM)
• Advanced Diploma In Public Management
• Higher Certificate in Public Management (HCPM)
• National Diploma in Public Administration (NDPA)

The various job roles that are available for those completing a public management programme from Regenesys are:

• Community Service Officer
• Community Development Manager
• Public Policy Analyst
• Supply Chain Manager
• Public Affairs Specialist
• Development Coordinator
• Public Relations Manager
• Public Works Manager
• Local Government Manager
• Public Administration Officer

Learn about the Skills You Will Gain from Studying PDPM Online.

Explore Our Other Programmes

Conclusion

The employment scenario in the South African public sector can be competitive. But it is open to candidates from different nationalities, work experience and academic backgrounds.

An in-depth understanding of public service strategies, regulations, etc., that shape the environment where public service delivery takes place is necessary.

Candidates can gain this understanding through formal studies in disciplines related to the public sector. 

Consider Regenesys Education to pursue a programme in public management. Visit the website and check the programme details, including their NQF Level.

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