The development of the national skills base within South Africa, as supported by legislation, national policies and strategies is an undisputed priority. Equitable human development that supports an inclusive economic growth path, addresses recognised skills shortages and a reduction in high levels of unemployment, will only be achieved through an educated, skilled and capable South African workforce. This qualification is an essential building block in realising these national priorities.

Many of the skills development priorities, nationally and within companies and organisations, are met through the efforts of learning and development practitioners, and this qualification addresses the key competencies of such practitioners.

The qualification will increase the employment prospects of Occupational Learning practitioners, while helping to ensure quality and competence within the Occupational Learning field.

The qualification further supports the continued development of key established employment opportunities associated with occupationally directed education and training, including, skills development facilitation, assessment practitioners and Skills Development Facilitator (SDF) practitioners as part qualifications.

The qualification also places emphasis on the educational strategy that provides learners with real-life work experiences where they can apply knowledge and technical skills, and develop their employability through work based learning. This qualification recognises the need for qualified practitioners that are competent in planning and facilitating work based learning interventions, as a part qualification. This will achieve the need for qualified persons who are able to support workplaces and learners with the implementation of work experience components of learnerships, internships and apprenticeships.

The qualification is designed to meet the competency profile of persons delivering learning and development services, at the interface of the delivery of learning and development services within the occupational qualification framework. This recognises a further need for professional development at higher levels of learning and development research, planning, design and impact assessment.