Important update for Tourist Guides: Renewal and enhancement of qualifications underway
The present Tourist Guide qualifications are undergoing a process of renewal and enhancement. SATSA is working in partnership with The National Federation of Tourist Guides Association (NFTGA) and the South African Adventure Industry Association (SAAIA) on this. Please see below the following statement by NFTGA and SAAIA regarding the updates on renewal and the ongoing enhancement processes.
Please take note of the following important updates:
1. Expiry of Current Qualifications:
All existing guide qualifications were discontinued and expired on the 30th of June 2023.
2. Enrolment Deadline:
The last date for enrolment onto these qualifications is 30th June 2024.
3. Achievement Deadline:
All students have until 30th June 2027 to achieve these qualifications, provided they enrolled before 30th June 2024.
4. Historical Qualification Request:
A joint effort with SAAIA and FGASA has been made to have all current qualifications, including the Generic Adventure Site Guide skills programme, recognised as historical qualifications. This recognition would allow guides to use them for re-registration or registration with their local registrar as a guide. Although this request has been escalated, a decision is pending as of the latest update.
Update on Qualification Development:
Phase One: Mapping Sessions
The Department of Tourism, in collaboration with CATHSSETA and industry representatives, conducted four mapping sessions to discuss and outline the potential new qualifications. The sessions covered the "Nature Guide Qualification," "Culture Guide Qualification," and "Adventure Guide Qualification." These discussions, although informal in nature, provided valuable insights. The facilitator will compile detailed reports on each session.
The final mapping session, encompassing all three qualifications, concluded on 1st - 3rd August 2023 at Tourism House in Gauteng. The National Federation of Tourist Guides and Affiliates eagerly anticipates the formal reports from these sessions.
Phase Two: Qualification Development Process
The formal qualification development process will be undertaken by CATHSSETA in partnership with the QCTO. This process will involve the appointment of a facilitator to develop formal occupational certificates, part qualifications, or skills programmes. The industry will have an opportunity to contribute through consultative inputs. The National Federation of Tourist Guides and Affiliates is committed to ensuring that the voices of all Tourist Guides, representing diverse specialisations, are heard during this process.
The National Federation of Tourist Guides and Affiliates strives to make sure that all Tourist Guides are represented alongside their specialisations and that the workplace is adequately represented in a realistic approach to these qualifications. The Federation prides itself in a transparent and truthful communication by collaborating with other industry-driven associations as well as those in the private and public sectors.
