The qualification provides a framework for learners to develop skills that will enable them to become competent in End User Computing. It introduces theoretical concepts of End User Computing and requires the application thereof, to develop a range of skills that will enable learners to be better-informed workers in their chosen industry. The qualification provides a balanced learning experience that lays the foundation for access to further education, lifelong learning and to productive employment.

FETC: Information Technology: Systems Development NQF Level 4

SAQA Qualification ID: 78965

Duration:  12 Months

NQF Level: 4

Minimum Credits: 165

MICT SETA

- Communicate effectively with fellow IT staff &amp; users of information systems.
- Demonstrate an understanding of different types of computer systems and the use of computer technology in business.
- Demonstrate an understanding of problem solving techniques, and how to apply them in a technical environment.
- Demonstrate an understanding of Computer Technology Principles.
- Demonstrate an understanding of Computer Programming Principles.
- Work effectively as a team member within a development project environment.
- Carry out, under supervision, a small sized task to demonstrate an understanding of the knowledge, techniques and skills needed to understand the fundamentals of Computer Programming. &nbsp;

Learning Outcomes

Academically this National Certificate is intended to be an entry-level qualification, at the Higher Education band, in the area of Systems Development. The qualification builds on from the National Certificate in Information Technology: Systems Development at NQF level 4, and it also facilitates entry into the Systems Development field from other related fields.

Audience

National Certificate: Information Technology (End-User Computing) NQF Level 3
OR
Grade 11 or NQF Level 3 qualification with compulsory competency in communication, mathematics and computer literacy

Prerequisites

- Introduction to computer technology
- Networking Architecture
- Computer programming
- Internet software development
- Analysis of Infrastructure
- Complaints management
- IT systems diagnostics

Modules

The purpose of this qualification is to build a foundation entry into the field of Computer Sciences and Information Technology, specifically into the field of Systems Support, covering basic knowledge needed for further study in the field of Systems Support at Higher Education Levels.

FETC: Information Technology: Technical Support NQF Level 4

SAQA Qualification ID: 78964

Minimum Credits: 163

- Communicate effectively with fellow IT staff &amp; users of information systems.
- Demonstrate an understanding of different types of computer systems and the use of computer technology in business.
- Demonstrate an understanding of problem solving techniques, and how to apply them in a technical environment.
- Demonstrate an understanding of Computer Technology Principles.
- Select and use materials and equipment safely for technological purposes.
- Work effectively as a team member within a support team.
- Carry out, under supervision, a small size task to demonstrate knowledge of techniques &amp; skills needed in one or more of the following areas of majoring/specialisation:
- Hardware and Infrastructure Support for Personal Computers
- Hardware and Infrastructure Support for Office Products
- Data Communications and Network Support&nbsp;

The introduction of national qualifications in Information Technology based on unit standards will allow learners to qualify for a national qualification by accumulating the required credits via short learning programmes or workplace practical experience or both. It also allows learners to achieve the qualifications through recognition of prior learning and/or learnerships schemes, overcoming past barriers in the methods of achieving formal qualifications.&nbsp;

- Grade 11 Certificate
- English NQF 3 (Grade 11)
- Mathematics Literacy NQF 3 (Grade 11)
- Computer Literacy

- Introduction to computer technology
- Networking Architecture
- Computer upgrading for hardware and software
- Troubleshooting
- Management of networks
- Business Communication
- Mathematics

NC: Information Technology: End User Computing NQF Level 3 

SAQA Qualification ID: 61591

NQF Level: 3

Minimum Credits: 130

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Learnerships - 12 Months&nbsp;&nbsp;

Duration

The National Certificate in IT: End User Computing at NQF Level 3, is intended for learners already employed or new learners entering the workplace, requiring End User Computing skills. The unit standards of this qualification may be added to other industry qualifications to provide an End User Computing focus with comparison, choice, interpretation and the application of knowledge.

It is assumed that the learner is competent in skills gained at the further education and training band up to NQF level 2. Further learning assumed is that learners are competent in End User Computing at NQF level 1.

- Introduction to computers
- Microsoft Office
- Internet usage
- Effective business and report writing
- Oral Communication
- Managing Finances
- Practical Mathematics
- Statistics
- Understanding of HIV/AIDS in a workplace
- Managing teams

- Demonstrate an understanding of applying Graphical User Interface (GUI)-based Word Processing Application skills in the Workplace.
- Demonstrate an understanding of applying Graphical User Interface (GUI)-based Presentation Application skills in the Workplace.
- Demonstrate an understanding of applying GUI-based Spreadsheet Application skills in the Workplace.
- Demonstrate an understanding of applying GUI-based Electronic Mail Application skills in the Workplace.
- Demonstrate an understanding of applying GUI-based Web Browser Application skills in the Workplace.
- Improve Communication by combining communication skills with End User Computing skills.
- Improve the application of mathematical literacy in the workplace, by better utilising End User Computing Applications.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the use of Information Communications &amp; Technology (ICT) in an organisation &amp; the impact it has on societies.

A qualifying learner will be able to communicate effectively with fellow IT staff & users of information technology, understanding the role of technology in a business context and to be able to address business problems with appropriate information technology solutions. Learners will be able to apply the principles of creating computer software by carrying out, under limited supervision, a task of reasonable size to demonstrate an understanding of the knowledge, techniques & skills needed in one or more area of majoring/specialisation that the qualification offers where IT is a key component, like the Financial Services or Insurance Industries.

NC: Information Technology: Systems Development NQF Level 5

SAQA Qualification ID: 48872

NQF Level: 5

Minimum Credits: 131

Similar to the National Certificates in IT at NQF level 4, this qualification has been formulated such that it reflects the workplace-based needs of the Information Technology Industry as expressed by its stakeholders. The input has been used to ensure that the qualification provides the learner with accessibility to be employed within the IT Industry.

It is assumed that the learner must be competent in skills gained at the further education and training band, with Computer Studies as an advantage, but not a requirement. A learning assumption of this qualification is foundational skills in communication and mathematical literacy as required by NQF level 4 qualifications. Further learning assumed is the ability to use a personal computer competently.&nbsp;

- Introduction to computer technology
- Networking Architecture
- Computer programming
- Internet software development
- Analysis of Infrastructure
- Complaints management
- IT systems diagnostics

- Communicate effectively with fellow IT staff &amp; users of information systems
- Understand the role of technology in the business context.
- Demonstrate an understanding of problem solving techniques, and how to apply them in a systems development environment
- Demonstrate an understanding of Systems Development, with all its implications
- Relate business problems and information technology solutions
- Apply the principles of creating computer software

A qualifying learner at this level will be a well-rounded IT professional building on foundational technical skills acquired at NQF level 4, via the National Certificate in IT Technical Support or equivalent. This qualification is expanding the specialisation(s) started at NQF level 4 into the core field of networking and support, with further specialisation(s) into IT Support fields or in any other related vertical or enabled markets.

NC: Information Technology: Systems Support NQF Level 5 

SAQA Qualification ID: 48573

Minimum Credits: 147

- Use a logical methodology to troubleshoot the common types of hardware and software problems typically encountered in the day-to-day operations of a department in an organisation.
- Understand the role of technology in the business context.
- Demonstrate basic application support skills
- Demonstrate operating system support skills
- Demonstrate network support skills
- Relate business problems and information technology solutions
- Demonstrate appropriate technical reporting skills
- Demonstrate appropriate customer care in the context of IT support
- Function appropriately in a change management process within a support team
- Demonstrate hardware support skills for server computers
- Demonstrate an understanding of Systems Support contextualised within a selected work area

The stated requirement is for the formation of a new set of skills and competencies, within the specific focus of networking/systems support, contextualised as appropriate for a wide range of related industry sectors.&nbsp;

It is assumed that the learner must be competent in skills gained at the further education and training band. A learning assumption of this qualification is foundational skills in English and Mathematics at NQF level 4. Further learning assumed is the ability to use a personal computer competently.&nbsp;

- Personal Development
- Network Architecture &amp; Standards
- Enterprise Systems Management
- Designing a LAN for Departmental Office
- Client Server Networking
- Monitor, Maintain &amp; Test Systems
- Managing LANS &amp; Understanding WANS
- Assembling, Maintaining &amp; Repairing a Server

Cloud computing involves providing a range of services such as servers, storage, databases, networking, software, analytics, and intelligence via the Internet, commonly referred to as "the cloud." This approach allows for quicker innovation, more adaptable resources, and cost savings through economies of scale. Instead of investing in their own IT infrastructure or data centres, businesses can lease access to various services, from applications to storage, from cloud service providers. This model has particularly benefited small, medium, and micro-sized enterprises (SMMEs) that previously could not afford IT infrastructure, enabling them to operate virtually from almost anywhere.

QCTO: Cloud administrator occupational certificate

Technology:  QCTO

Duration:  1490 Notional hours

Delivery Method:  ILT

QCTO

Typical learners include school leavers, qualified learners from TVET colleges and those currently in employment without formal recognition of competencies. No professional registration or licencing is expected for Cloud Administrators to seek employment in the sector. Cloud Administrators can be employed across various industries that use Cloud services for their clients or for their internal operations. The Cloud Administrators can further progress their career as Cloud Specialists, Cloud Engineers and Cloud Architects as well as Managers.&nbsp;&nbsp;

AUDIENCE PROFILE 

Previous Technical NQF 3 courses&nbsp;&nbsp;

PREREQUISITES

This qualification aims to equip learners with the skills necessary to work as a Cloud Administrator. In this role, they will be responsible for overseeing, managing, and resolving issues within cloud-based networks and computing resources, ensuring that cloud services operate without interruption. Additionally, they will uphold security measures to protect cloud environments from unauthorized access, threats, and other potential dangers.&nbsp;

Outcome 1:&nbsp;
Implement cloud solutions and services related to cloud computing, networks, security, and storage in a cloud environment.&nbsp;

Outcome 2:&nbsp;
Monitor and maintain servers and networks for optimal cloud performance and seamless delivery of all cloud services.&nbsp;

Outcome 3:&nbsp;
Monitor on-demand availability of data, data storage and storage capacity in line with the life cycle of data storage and hardware architecture.&nbsp;

Outcome 4:&nbsp;
Apply security configurations and compliance controls to meet cloud infrastructure requirements.&nbsp;&nbsp;

EXIT-LEVEL OUTCOMES

The world is currently facing a significant shortage of cybersecurity experts, with the number of professionals in this field decreasing annually. According to the 2019 (ISC)² Cybersecurity Workforce Study, there is a critical deficit of cybersecurity specialists. The study revealed that there are only 2.8 million skilled professionals globally working in cybersecurity, while the demand requires an additional 4.07 million experts to adequately protect organizations. Obtaining a cybersecurity qualification can help address this pressing need for cyber security professionals, positively influence the ICT sector, and ultimately contribute to economic growth.

QCTO: Cybersecurity analyst occupational certificate

Duration:  1730 Notional hours

Typical learners include school leavers, qualified learners from TVET colleges, and those currently in employment without formal recognition of competencies.&nbsp;&nbsp;

AUDIENCE PROFILE

Previous Technical NQF 4 courses&nbsp;&nbsp;

Computer technicians can work for computer software or hardware companies, assisting customers with products. More generally, computer technicians can work in a company’s IT department, providing computer support to company employees. These technicians are responsible for maintaining the company’s computer services (network and equipment). Their duties can include troubleshooting to detect and solve technical problems, installing or updating required hardware and software. They can also recommend computer products or equipment to improve company productivity.&nbsp;

Outcome 1:&nbsp;
Identify the potential green technologies, processes, and procedures to create a sustainable computer environment to reduce e-waste in an organization.&nbsp;

Outcome 2:&nbsp;
Set up a desktop/laptop for a new user according to software compatibility by installing operating systems and peripheral equipment according to given specifications&nbsp;

Outcome 3:&nbsp;
Communicate effectively using appropriate methods to maintain effective customer relationships according to organisational standards.&nbsp;

Outcome 4:&nbsp;
Analyse and resolve hardware/software problems such as operational discrepancies to optimise performance of the desktop/laptop systems. Apply knowledge of principles and practices in order to identify and solve problems arising in the course of their work.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Data science is a multidisciplinary field that employs scientific methodologies, processes, algorithms, and systems to derive knowledge and insights from both structured and unstructured data. It is closely associated with da

QCTO: Data science practitioner occupational certificate

Duration:  1850 Notional hours

Data Science Practitioners are responsible for managing data, ensuring it is organized and accessible for Data Scientists. They facilitate the data lifecycle through activities such as data collection, processing, analysis, and reporting, addressing fundamental business challenges. They create well-structured datasets that are comprehensive and relevant to the issues outlined in the project's scope, preparing them for storage and further use.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Outcome 1:&nbsp;
Collect large amounts of structured and unstructured data from primary and secondary sources and extract and transform them into a usable format.&nbsp;

Outcome 2:&nbsp;
Apply data analysis techniques to uncover patterns and trends in datasets (resultant sets of data that can be viewed as tables or as a "spreadsheet of data") to solve business-related problems.&nbsp;

Outcome 3:&nbsp;
Prepare and present descriptive analytics reports on patterns and trends using computer programming languages and explain those patterns and trends through e.g., visualization and storytelling etc., using data visualisation tools.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Upon successfully completing the qualification, students are prepared to offer technical support to users, encompassing the identification and resolution of issues related to software, hardware, computer peripherals, networks, databases, systems, and internet connectivity. The curriculum includes instruction on various software and hardware types, component upgrades and troubleshooting, hard drive formatting and partitioning, and an understanding of network topologies. Additionally, it addresses the integration of green technology, the maintenance of records detailing daily problems and their solutions, and the preparation of evaluations for system performance.

QCTO: ICT computer technician occupational certificate

Duration:  2820 Notional hours

&nbsp;Typical learners include school leavers, qualified learners from TVET colleges, and those currently in employment without formal recognition of competencies.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A significant body of global research indicates a substantial increase in the demand for skilled software developers. For instance, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasts a 22% rise in demand for software developers by 2029, contrasting sharply with the average annual growth rate of 4% for all professions. In South Africa, the 2020 list of high-demand occupations published by the Department of Higher Education and Training in 2021 highlights the critical need for software developers, as identified by various Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) and the industry at large. This anticipated job expansion bodes well for aspiring software developers, who can look forward to a secure, diverse, and lucrative career. By addressing this swiftly growing skills gap, the supply of software developers will contribute positively to economic development.

QCTO: Software developer occupational certificate

Duration:  2200 Notional hours

Typical learners include school leavers, graduates from TVET colleges and those currently in employment without formal recognition of competencies or who want to make a career change.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Outcome 1:&nbsp;
Interrogate the specification and problem and interpret it into code and articulate in writing. Build a logical flow using industry standard frameworks and methodologies to propose possible solutions to business challenges to meet both functional and technical requirements.&nbsp;

Outcome 2:&nbsp;
Programme effectively using a suitable programming language to develop new solutions and update existing solutions.&nbsp;

Outcome 3:&nbsp;
Test and maintain software and recommend improvements to ensure strong functionality and optimisation to meet both functional and technical requirements.&nbsp;

Outcome 4:&nbsp;
Function effectively, efficiently, and ethically in the workplace to achieve company and team goals and targets.&nbsp;&nbsp;