www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I February 2024 13
Training
There are a number of key role players in South Africa ’ s training community , each necessary to a collaborative approach needed for successful HVAC & R training initiatives and appropriateness of courses . Entities such as the South African Qualifications Authority ( SAQA ), the National Qualifications Framework ( NQF ), the National Artisan Moderating Body ( NAMB ), the Sector Education Training Authorities ( SETA ), Quality Council for Trades and Occupations ( QCTO ), SAQCC Gas , SARACCA and SAIRAC – each play a vital role in curriculum registration , quality control , assessment moderation and industry regulation .
The presentation underscored the importance of accreditation and quality assurance through industry partnerships . ACRA engages with various bodies , including the SAQA , NAMB , SETA and the regulating body for refrigeration to ensure that training aligns with industry requirements as well as standards . ACRA actively collaborates with these entities to create training manuals and materials , fostering a high level of involvement and industry trust .
Global collaborations are equally vital to bringing in expertise from overseas to enrich training initiatives . SAIRAC regularly organises events where international experts contribute to continuous learning and development . Delegates were encouraged to seek out these , as well as similar institutes and associations in their own countries to foster partnerships and collaborative growth .
The presentation delved into the history of the training centre , tracing its roots back to 1961 when such major training centres were government owned . Significant milestones include the establishment of new centres in Durban in 2018 , Kimberley in 2020 , and a partnership academy in Cape Town , showcasing the institution ’ s commitment to continuous improvement and expansion .
Of central importance to anyone aiming to follow the path of ACRA is an active engagement with government on legislative issues , to gain a holistic approach to industry development .
Equally important is an outreach to diverse sectors , including mining , agriculture and automotive industries . The need for air conditioning and refrigeration skills across these sectors was emphasised , indicating the broad applicability of the training programmes .
ACRA has embraced a departure from reliance on traditional academic curricula . Instead , it actively seeks projects and innovative solutions , considering these realworld applications as the main qualification for learners . This approach is seen as a critical step in preparing learners for the dynamic challenges of their respective industries .
ACRA ’ s future plans include the construction of a new
1 . Cheryl James and Helene Charpentier of SIFA . 2 . A selection of the delegates from African countries .
3 . A demonstration of the workplace skills ACRA students acquire .
facility funded through the SIFA initiative . Despite challenges and delays due to red tape , the commitment to expanding technical education so as to contribute to a skilled workforce was evident . ACRA shares the vision for empowering individuals through technical education , contributing to economic development , and fostering a culture of continuous learning . RACA
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RACA Journal
www . refrigerationandaircon . co . za RACA Journal I February 2024 13