Microsoft qualification goes national

By Staff Writer for Microsoft
Johannesburg, 21 May 2008

Microsoft certifications now represent credits towards national qualifications, after the software giant signed an agreement with the industry skills body.

The Information Systems, Electronics and Telecommunications Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority (ISETT SETA) has agreed to recognise Microsoft certifications as credit points that will count to learners' qualifications under the National Qualifications Framework.

"Working closely with the ISETT SETA, we're now in a better position than ever to deliver qualified professionals with technical and cross-functional skills based on the requirements of the industry and the standards set by government," says Microsoft MD Pfungwa Serima.

According to Microsoft, the alignment will allow companies to take advantage of the Skills Development Levy, while allowing individuals to benefit from receiving additional credits towards their studies through all South African institutions.

"This is a major step forward for skills development and capacity building in the IT industry. We encourage employers and learners alike to take advantage of these incentives in the development of a skilled workforce that is trained to respond to the business needs of our industry," says ISETT SETA CEO Oupa Mopaki.

Torque IT MD Mthunzi Mdwaba hails the agreement as an important milestone in driving employable skills into the industry. iSolve Business Solutions director Peter Clark agrees, saying the benefits of attaining credits against Microsoft training that will count towards a higher degree or diploma would be advantageous to any learner or IT professional.

Both organisations say this is a step in alleviating the national skills shortage. According to the national master skills list drawn up by the Department of Labour, SA lacks 37 565 ICT workers, ranging from network technicians to human resources workers.