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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Professional Advanced Qualification: Governance and Administration 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
60655  Professional Advanced Qualification: Governance and Administration 
ORIGINATOR
General SGB 03 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
The individual Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary for each Learning Programme recorded against this qualification is shown in the table at the end of this report.  OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National Certificate  Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies  Office Administration 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Level 6  NQF Level 07  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 SAQA 06120/18  2018-07-01  2023-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2024-06-30   2027-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification is replaced by: 
Qual ID Qualification Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Min Credits Replacement Status
104989  Occupational Certificate: Company Secretary  Not Applicable  NQF Level 08  544  Complete 
104991  Occupational Certificate: Governance Practitioner  Not Applicable  NQF Level 07  376  Complete 
118115  Occupational Certificate: Governance Professional  Not Applicable  NQF Level 08  156  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:

The purpose of the qualification is to equip senior managers and administrators in the public and private sectors with the theory relating to administration, management and corporate governance underpinning their work. This will enable them to acquire the practical skills to perform competently within an organisation.

The learning in the qualification is broad-based, with the emphasis on governance, administration and strategic issues. This covers the requirements of both the public and private sectors.

Given the need for appropriately trained and skilled managers and administrators in the public and private sectors in South Africa, successful learners will be able to contribute substantially to social and economic transformation. This is particularly relevant in the context of the need for appropriate governance in our developing democracy.

Successful learners who attain the qualification are eligible to apply to become an Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Business Management which is the third level of qualification required for membership of Chartered Secretaries International, via the Southern African Division.

Rationale:

The National Certificate in Governance and Administration (NQF level 6) is the third qualification in a set of four qualifications in a learning pathway in Governance and Administration.

The range of learners is identified as being people who have advanced from middle management and administration into senior management roles.

This qualification is focused on governance at a corporate and public management level and includes advanced administration, financial and cost accounting, strategic and operations management, corporate law, governance and corporate financial management.

There is sufficient demand for this qualification from corporate and public organisations. The successful learner will find employment opportunities with this qualification at a senior level in private organisations and public entities.

Successful learners will be able to undertake leadership roles with confidence, be able to motivate their staff, understand and advise on legal and accounting matters as well as being able to contribute to corporate strategic planning.

Should there be no opportunities in their present employment, successful learners will be highly marketable. By applying the knowledge and skills acquired, they will be able to become successful managers and administrators of high performing departments/teams. Additionally, their skills will prove useful in life outside the work environment as officials in clubs and societies. 

LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
It is assumed that learners are competent in Communication, mathematical literacy and Accounting at NQF Level 4 and in Computer literacy at NQF Level 3.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL)

This qualification can be achieved wholly or in part through the Recognition of Prior Learning. The individual should be thoroughly briefed prior to the assessment, and will be required to submit a Portfolio of Evidence in the prescribed format to be assessed for formal recognition.

The approach taken to RPL in this qualification reflects the objectives of the NQF in that it will allow access to qualifications for a large section of previously disadvantaged persons who were marginalised from mainstream education and training. RPL will also provide access for the youth and unemployed to embark on learning and career path progression. RPL is relevant to provide recognition of experience acquired over many years in the workplace for those already employed. RPL will allow these persons to accumulate credits for experiential learning gained.

Access to the qualification:

Learners should preferably have successfully completed the National Certificate in Governance and Administration (NQF 5) or an equivalent qualification before accessing this qualification. Access is open to all learners in possession of an FETC. 

RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
Y 

QUALIFICATION RULES 
N/A 

EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
Fundamental component (compulsory for all learners)

1. Explain legislation as applied to corporate and public bodies and apply such knowledge in practical situations.
  • Range: Companies Act, Close Corporations Act, Insider Trading Act, Access to Information Act, Electronic Communications Act, Financial Intelligence Centre Act, Public Financial Management Act and the Insolvency Act.

    Core component (compulsory for all learners)

    2. Interpret the strategic management decisions made by an organisation by referring to the components that comprise the strategic planning, strategy implementation and control phases.
    3. Apply the principles and tools of cost and management accounting to the making of investment decisions on behalf of the organisation.

    Elective component (learners should choose one elective)

    4. Demonstrate a thorough knowledge of advanced financial accounting as detailed in the relevant statutes and statements.
  • Range: Companies Act, Close Corporations Act, Income Tax Act, Public Financial Management Act as well as relevant present and future Statements of Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (GAAP).
    5. Apply computer-assisted audit techniques.
    6. Apply and design systems of internal financial audit control.
    7. Apply concepts and principles relevant to the practical aspects of corporate governance and accountability. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Fundamental component (compulsory for all learners)

    1.
  • The concept of "corporate personality" as applied to business entities is explained in terms of the legal implications this has for organisations and its board, board members and management staff, as well as any other role players.
  • Details are provided of the interaction required and permissible between members, the corporate body and third parties in terms of functions, duties, responsibilities and the disclosure of information.
  • The Public Financial Management Act is applied in the service delivery of a public institution.
  • The implications of The Public Financial Management Act for the taxpayer are explained illustrating both the advantages and disadvantages.
  • The qualifications, appointments and duties of directors and officers of corporate bodies are explained by relating them to the functions, duties and responsibilities of each person.
  • An explanation is given of the purpose of meetings of companies and CC's.
  • The concepts, "Members' interests", "minority protection", "shares" and "debentures" and their transactions are explained by way of practical examples from organisations.
  • The statutory provisions addressing corporate entities facing closure are explained in terms of the protection they offer the various role players and stakeholders involved with and in the organisation/entity.

    Core component (compulsory for all learners)

    2.
  • The value of strategic planning in an organisation is explained in terms of the role it plays in ensuring sustainability, profitability and the ability of the organisation to attain its mission.
  • The vision and mission statements and strategies of an organisation are explained in terms of how they translate into measurable long-term goals.
  • The results of the organisation's external environmental assessment are interpreted in terms of the organisation being able to achieve its goals and mission.
  • An explanation is given of the importance of various strategy-implementation levers and strategic control.
  • The importance of managing operations, information and quality is explained in terms of the role they play in ensuring successful strategy implementation.
    > Range: Corporate, NGO, Public, Small and other organisations.

    3.
  • An explanation is given of the nature of cost and management accounting and their principles are applied to a case study and or authentic work contexts.
  • Management accounting principles are applied by costing products and services and by preparing and implementing budgets and budgetary controls.
  • Standard costs are accounted for by the application of costing techniques.
  • Planning and decision-making are participated in, in a short-term context.
  • Performance analyses are carried out and the findings communicated to enhance productivity.

    Elective component (learners should choose one elective)

    4.
  • A conceptual framework is applied for the preparation and presentation of financial statements.
  • The necessary journal entries, related ledger accounts and financial statement disclosure are prepared in respect of various types of investments.
  • Financial statements are prepared, analysed and interpreted in line with relevant statutes and statements.
  • The special aspects relating to companies and accounting under conditions of changing prices are taken into account in the preparation of financial statements.
  • An assessment is made of the merits of current developments in accounting and financial reporting.

    5.
  • Auditiong and information systems are described in relation to auditing standards.
  • The feasibility of using CAATs is described in terms of time, effort, cost ands availability.
  • Various CAATs are evaluated in terms of the advantages they have to offer an organisation.
  • An audit is done using a CAAT.

    6.
  • The principles of internal financial control are explained using examples from an organisation explaining how they assist the management function of an organisation.
  • An internal financial control system is designed to meet organisational and industry standards.
  • The risks involved in computerised financial control systems are explained outlining what measures should be taken to eliminate or minimise them.
  • Problems identified in the system are eliminated through design amendments.

    7.
  • The specific responsibilities of management are described in terms of relevant legislation and particularly relating to the Code of Corporate practice and Conduct.
  • Information is compiled with regard to corporate practices and conduct in an organisation that can add value to the organisation.
  • An organisational structure is presented that complies with industry standards and organisational strategy.
  • Audit committees are recommended for an organisation that comply with legal and organisational requirements.
  • Business risk elements are identified and related to corporate governance strategies and techniques.
  • Preventative, detective and correctional strategies for risk management are described in line with GAAP/GRAP.

    Integrated Assessment

    The qualification and its associated assessment criteria have been designed so that assessment is conducted by means of formative and summative assessments, which can take the form of an examination.

    Learners must:
  • Demonstrate competence by means of the practical application of the embedded knowledge.
  • Illustrate a clear understanding of the concepts, theory and principles that underpin the practical action taken by means of explanation and/or examination.

    Learners can be required to build up a portfolio of evidence to establish and verify the application of learning in the workplace.

    The assessments are designed to indicate not only the knowledge gaps and skills deficits of the learner, but also highlight the learner's strengths and weaknesses related to the other elements of applied competence, namely:
  • Information processing and the power of analysis.
  • Problem solving and a decision making capacity.
  • Communication skills.

    The need for appropriate coaching methods and training interventions will therefore become apparent.

    The assessment process is capable of being applied to RPL, subject to the rules and criteria of the relevant ETQA. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification is in every way equivalent to the ICSA (Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators) international qualification offered in the following countries: United Kingdom, New Zealand, Australia, Singapore, Malawi, Canada, Nigeria, Kenya, Botswana, Swaziland, India and Ghana. The comparable qualification in Malaysia is entitled the Professional Programme Part 1; In Canada, the qualification is also called the Professional Programme Part 1; in Hong Kong it is known as the Professional Programme Stage 2; in Australia the qualification is accredited as the Graduate Diploma in Applied Corporate Governance; in Singapore it is known as the Professional Programme Part 1.


    The Exit Level Outcomes and Associated Assessment Criteria of this qualification match those of the qualifications offered in each of the above-mentioned countries. The degree of difficulty and notional learning time are comparable to the offerings in those countries as well. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Since this qualification is the third step in a qualification-set from NQF 5 to NQF 7, there is ready articulation of this qualification with the Certificate that follows at NQF level 7. Additionally, components of this qualification should provide the learner with credits in areas such as a BCom degree as well as with management and administration certificates and diplomas at NQF level 6 and 7. 

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable the achievement of this qualification must be accredited as a provider with the relevant ETQA.
  • Assessment and moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant ETQA according to the policies and guidelines for assessment and moderation of that ETQA, in terms of agreements reached around assessment and moderation between various ETQAs (including professional bodies), and in terms of the moderation guideline detailed immediately below.
  • Moderation must include both internal and external moderation of assessments at all exit points of the qualification, unless ETQA policies specify otherwise. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    Assessors wishing to assess learners against this qualification should:
  • Be registered as assessors with the relevant ETQA.
  • Be in possession of a qualification in accounting, administration or management at NQF level 7 or above. 
    		•

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some of their learning programmes are moved to being recorded against the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replacement.
     
    LP ID Learning Programme Title Originator Pre-2009
    NQF Level    		 NQF Level Min Credits Learning Prog End Date Quality
    Assurance
    Functionary    		 NQF Sub-Framework
    60151  CIS Professional Advanced Qualification: Governance and Administration  Chartered Secretaries Southern Africa (formerly ICSA)  Level 6  NQF Level 07  120     FASSET  OQSF 
    76995  Professional Advanced Qualification: Governance and Administration  Generic Provider - Field 03  Level 6  NQF Level 07  120     QCTO  OQSF 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THESE LEARNING PROGRAMMES: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.