Vision, Mission
& Values

A world-class National Qualifications Framework that works for the people in South Africa.

NQF History
& Objectives

The NQF traces its origins back to the labour movement of the early 1970s.

Board &
Management

The Board maintains overall responsibility of the organisation and delegates some of its work to various committees.

What is the South African
Qualifications Authority?

The South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) is the oversight body of the NQF and the custodian of its values and quality character. The role of SAQA, as stipulated in the NQF Act, is to advance the objectives of the NQF, oversee the further development and implementation of the NQF, and co-ordinate the Sub-Frameworks. SAQA’s functions are set out in section 13 of the NQF Act.

Services

Registration of Qualifications & Part Qualifications

A part-qualification means an assessed unit of learning that is registered as part of a qualification.
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Verification of SA Qualifications

This service is to verify South African Qualification Achievements.
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Recognition of Professional Bodies

SAQA is responsible for the recognition of professional bodies and registration of professional designations for the purposes of the NQF Act, no 67 of 2008.
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Evaluation of Foreign Qualifications

The purpose of the evaluation function is the recognition of foreign qualifications in terms of the South AfricanĀ National Qualifications Framework.
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NQF MIS Incorporating the NLRD

The National Learners' Records Database (NLRD) is the management information system of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
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Confirmation of Private Higher Education Institution Qualifications

Regulations for the Registration of Private Higher Education Institutions (Guide APX-03).
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Careers

The HR e-Recruitment software application provides SAQA with an automated recruitment, selection and appointment capability that contributes to reduced cost and time to the job applicants, while enhancing the overall quality process and standards in our recruitment.

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Building a world-class National Qualifications Framework for South Africa, which contributes to the full personal development of lifelong learners

6 days ago

#FreedomDay2025 ... See MoreSee Less
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1 week ago

Congratulations to the Newly Elected ACQF Network Presidency!!We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the newly elected Presidency of the African Continental Qualifications Framework (ACQF) Network — a visionary initiative of the African Union.The ACQF plays a critical role in harmonising qualifications frameworks across Africa, enhancing comparability, quality assurance, and the recognition of qualifications. It supports mobility, employability, and lifelong learning for all, while strengthening national and regional qualifications systems.We proudly acknowledge the election of the following distinguished leaders:Ms Nadia Starr, CEO, South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA)Dr Alice Kande, Director General/CEO, Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA)Ms Mercy Ngoma, Director General, Zambia Qualifications Authority (ZAQA)Your collective leadership and expertise will be instrumental in guiding the ACQF Network towards its goal of a cohesive, integrated, and people-centred African qualifications framework.This marks an exciting new chapter in advancing education, skills recognition, and collaboration across the continent.#ACQF #AfricanUnion #saqaandthenqf#QualificationsFramework #KNQA #ZaQa #skillsdevelopment #MobilityMatters #lifelonglearning #educationforafrica #AUAgenda2063 ... See MoreSee Less
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1 week ago

The South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), in partnership with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and three Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) - FASSET, W&RSETA, EWSETA and the Central Applications Office (CAO), hosted a series of Life Orientation Educator Training workshops aimed at empowering them with vital knowledge to support learners in making informed career choices and understanding the value of the NQF. Held from 22 - 24 April 2025, in KwaZulu-Natal—specifically in the Jozini, Hluhluwe, and Mtubatuba Districts. Workshops focused on several key areas:- Promoting a culture of learning across all ages and educational levels;- Highlighting the importance of lifelong learning for both career advancement and personal development; - Equipping educators with skills to use the NQF as a strategic tool in guiding learners through education and career pathways and encouraging the integration of SAQA services and tools into everyday classroom teaching!šŸŽÆšŸ’Æ #SAQAandtheNQF #SAQAinEveryClassRoom #SAQAinEveryVillage #KnowYourNQF #KZNDepartmentofEducation #FASSET#freedom30 ... See MoreSee Less
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1 week ago

Yesterday morning, a significant and insightful podcast was recorded, featuring a robust discussion on the evolution of South Africa's qualifications and skills development landscape. Participating in this dynamic session were Mrs Nadia Starr, CEO of the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA); Mr Vijayen Naidoo, CEO of the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO); and Mr Yershen Pillay, CEO of the Chemical Industries Education & Training Authority (CHIETA). The podcast was expertly moderated by Mr Japie Nel, Senior Manager at SAQA.The conversation centred around the transition from legacy qualifications to occupational qualifications quality assured by the QCTO, sharing developments, highlights, and challenges related to the transition, and providing listeners with valuable insights from industry leaders.SAQA extends its sincere appreciation to the University of Johannesburg for providing the venue and generous support to host this important podcast.Stay tuned—the recording of this compelling podcast will be shared soon!#SAQAandtheNQF #QCTO #CHIETA #UJ #SkillsDevelopment #educationandtrainingTraining #Podcast Nadia Starr Vijayen Naidoo Yershen Pillay Makhapa Makhafola #UJ ... See MoreSee Less
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2 weeks ago

Final Day of the Career Exhibition at Nokaneng Community Hall, Nkangala District!The SAQA team wrapped up the event by showcasing the importance of the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).Learners engaged with enthusiasm and curiosity, with their active participation reflecting a keen interest in how registered qualifications and the NQF can shape their futures. #KnowyourNQF #nqftothepeople #saqaandthenqf ... See MoreSee Less
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