Part of the OECD Reviews of Vocational Education and Training Series Many countries are currently implementing qualification frameworks, or have done so recently. Such frameworks can make TVET systems more transparent, so that the value of different qualifications can be more clearly recognised by students, employers and other stakeholders. Strong frameworks should, in principle, facilitate lifelong learning, and improve access to higher level education. Implementing a qualifications framework might therefore be best seen as part of a wider approach to quality and coherence in VET provision.

South Africa is a pioneer in this field, as the South Africa National Qualifications Framework was implemented in 1995. The ten levels of the Framework should make it easier to understand which programmes lead to the same level, and how different programmes relate to each other. International experience shows that if frameworks are underpinned by a strong methodology for allocating qualifications to levels, supported by key stakeholders, and backed by complementary measures to unify the TVET system and improve transitions, they can facilitate lifelong learning, and improve access to higher level education.

The first chapter of this report places the review of South Africa in the context of the OECD policy study, describes the main features of VET system in South Africa, compares it with other systems internationally, and examines its strengths and challenges. The following chapters advance policy recommendations.

DOI : 10.1787/9789264223776-en