From SAQA to QCTO: What the Transition Means for Your Training Programme
South Africa’s education and training landscape is changing. Are you ready?
The transition from SAQA (South African Qualifications Authority) to QCTO (Quality Council for Trades and Occupations) marks one of the most important shifts for training providers — especially those accredited by SETAs like merSETA.
If you manage learnerships, internships, or apprenticeships, understanding this shift is essential. More importantly, adapting to it is where your success lies.
What’s Changing?
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| SAQA Model | QCTO Model |
|---|---|
| Unit standard-based qualifications | Occupational qualifications |
| Flexible PoE standards | Structured, standardised PoE formats |
| Manual recordkeeping | Digital recordkeeping encouraged |
| Multiple quality assurers (e.g., SETAs) | Central quality assurance by QCTO |
The QCTO’s goal is to create uniformity, traceability, and transparency in occupational training — and that means providers must evolve their systems and processes.
What Does This Mean for You as a Provider?
- You’ll need to generate uniform, auditable PoEs
→ No more varied formats. QCTO portfolios follow a strict layout tied to specific occupational tasks. - You must ensure real-time tracking of learner progress
→ This includes attendance, workplace activities, and assessment milestones. - Compliance documentation must be streamlined
→ QCTO expects readiness for digital audits — no more chasing paper trails.
How CloudPOE Simplifies Your Transition
CloudPOE is a smart digital system designed specifically for South African training providers.
Here’s how we make QCTO compliance easy:
Digital Logbooks
Capture daily learner tasks and workplace activities — with supervisor sign-off built-in.
QR Attendance Tracking
Say goodbye to paper registers. Learners check in using QR codes, from anywhere.
SETA & QCTO-Ready Reporting
Generate PoE reports, learner attendance summaries, and performance insights instantly.
Time & Stipend Automation
Track eligibility and generate payment files automatically, based on QCTO standards.
The Benefit of Being an Early Adopter
By transitioning now:
- You avoid non-compliance risks later
- You save 40–60% in administrative time
- You build confidence with funders and learners
Take the Next Step
Whether you’re a small academy or a national provider, CloudPOE is your compliance co-pilot in the new QCTO era.
Book your free CloudPOE demo now.
Explore how we help you stay compliant — without the paperwork.
