(Vocational) and - Umalusi

The NC(V) is demanding in its assessment requirements (in terms of facilities, equipment,
consumables and human resources), but these demands are also the very requirements
which, once properly met, will undoubtedly make the NC(V) a worthwhile learning
experience for learners. Challenges remain mainly in terms of suitably qualified staff,
physical resources to accommodate effective implementation of internal assessment and
the implementation and administration of the practical component, including the ISATs. It
is of the utmost importance that solutions to these challenges are found if both the quality
of the learning experience and the integrity of the qualification are not to be
compromised.
A major challenge facing the NATED instructional offerings is outdated and/or
underspecified curricula that have a detrimental effect on the quality assurance of
assessment. Substantial interventions are required to improve the curriculum, teaching
and learning, and assessment of these programmes. More recently examination question
papers have been enhanced and improved but there are, however, NATED question
papers which are still not of the appropriate standard. These need urgent attention to
ensure that the assessment instruments do not present a barrier to the collection of valid
evidence of the abilities and performance of learners.
A critical aspect in the provision of quality vocational education and training is ensuring
that learners have access to authentic workplace or experiential learning. We urge the
Department of Higher Education and Training and all other roleplayers in the FET College
sector to attend to this important dimension of the NC(V) and the NATED Report 191
offerings.
Based on the results, and the reports of the quality assurance processes undertaken, by
the team of external moderators and monitors, as well as the deliberations and
conclusions of Umalusi Council's Assessment Standards Committee, the Executive
Committee of the Umalusi Council concluded that the NC(V) and the NATED Report 191
examinations were generally conducted in a professional, fair and reliable manner and
that the results could be regarded as credible. Nevertheless, Umalusi is concerned about
incidents that marred the FET College examinations and examination centres that flouted
the policy in respect of the conduct of examinations. The results of six NATED subjects
could initially not be standardised because of alleged irregularities.
Umalusi takes pride in the great strides that have been made in the quality assurance of
the assessments in this sector over the past few years. Through its quality assurance
processes, Umalusi will continue to ensure that the quality, integrity and credibility of the
Vocational Education and Training assessments are maintained and will continue in its
endeavours to ensure an assessment system that provides valid, fair and credible
assessments.
Umalusi would like to take this opportunity to thank all stakeholders for their cooperation
and the support provided in each of the quality assurance processes undertaken to
ensure the credibility of the 2012 VET assessment and examinations.
Professor Sizwe G Mabizela
Chairperson of Umalusi Council January 2013
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