THE FLEXOGRAPHIC TECHNICAL ASSOCIATION (FTA) is calling on all flexo printers and members in South Africa to urgently pursue workplace training accreditation under the evolving national skills framework.

‘Accreditation is no longer a nice-to-have – it’s essential,’ stresses Leal Wright, executive secretary of the FTA. ‘Without becoming an accredited Workplace Site or Trade Test Centre, companies simply won’t be able to host apprentices under the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) framework.’

The FTA recently participated in a critical industry webinar hosted by Printing SA, where the transition from SETAs to QCTO as the central authority for Occupational Qualifications (OQs) was discussed. As Leal explains: ‘Legacy qualifications will be phased out by June 2026, and companies that don’t engage now risk facing a serious artisan shortage. The final group of learners on the old system will finish their training by June 2029 – and after that, it’s QCTO or nothing.’

Under the new system, companies can apply for either Workplace Site Accreditation (WPS) or Trade Test Centre (TTC) status. Accredited WPSs are essential for delivering the workplace modules of OQs, requiring structured logbooks, qualified mentors and compliance with health and safety standards. TTCs, meanwhile, must be approved by the National Artisan Moderating Body (NAMB) and be equipped to deliver final trade assessments aligned with QCTO standards.

‘OQs bring a modern, modular approach to skills development,’ Leal adds. ‘They combine knowledge and practical modules delivered by skills development providers with real-world application through workplace modules – and are capped off with final external assessments.’

The benefits are tangible: increased employability, flexible part qualifications and training aligned with industry needs. Companies are also encouraged to contribute Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) with six or more years of experience to help shape qualifications and assessments.

‘Through our partnership with Printing SA, the FTA is ready to guide members through the accreditation process,’ concludes Leal. ‘Engage now and position your business to build a skilled, future-ready workforce.’

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