SACAP launches online platform
that re-ignites Recognition of
Prior Learning programme
The South African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP) is
about to unveil an online platform that will launch its re-ignited Recognition
of Prior Learning (RPL) programme, a key strategic component of the
4th Term Council’s plan that aims to realise transformation within the
profession and the broader Built Environment.
A
s the architectural professionals’ regulatory body, SACAP’s strategic
plan and objectives are aligned with the imperatives of the National
Development Plan (NDP) and the roll out of its cutting edge large scale
infrastructure projects. Architectural Professionals ignite the planning
process of projects such as these undertaken by the Department of
Public Works.
Following a moratorium on SACAP’s RPL programme instituted in
2010, a lengthy period of consultation ensued between SACAP and its
Voluntary Associations. More recently there has been an intense period
of testing newly designed RPL software. SACAP’s 4th Term Council is now pleased
to announce that from 08 December, the programme will once more be available, in
a new format, for the benefit of three of its registration categories: Draughtspersons,
Architectural Technologists and Senior Architectural Technologists.
The purpose of RPL is to assess previously acquired skills and knowledge, with the view
to providing an opportunity to articulate to the next level of professional registration.
The two-stage process allows for online self-assessment followed by assessment panels
as means of fulfilling the requirements to upgrade to a higher category of registration.
Articulating within the profession will uplift the professional status of successful
applicants and is expected to help them unlock more lucrative work opportunities.
It is important to note that RPL allows only for access to elevated professional
registration, and is not an academic qualification. To be eligible the individual must be
registered as a professional and as such, have passed SACAP’s Professional Practice
Exams (PPEs).
Through its research, SACAP estimates that 500 plus professionals across the country,
commonly referred to as “The Missing Middle”, need access to equal opportunity and
practical redress for past imbalances and are eager to take their first steps on SACAP’s
innovative RPL online platform. Each will have to demonstrate project work from the
last three to five years, depending on their registration category.
President of SACAP, Yashaen Luckan says, “I anticipate equity statistics will improve
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