SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Occupational Certificate: Conference and Events Organiser 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
102944  Occupational Certificate: Conference and Events Organiser 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - QCTO (SERV) 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Occupational Certificate  Field 11 - Services  Hospitality, Tourism, Travel, Gaming and Leisure 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  277  Not Applicable  NQF Level 05  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0425/24  2018-07-26  2025-12-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-12-30   2029-12-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Conference and Events Organiser. This occupational qualification will enable creative assistance and coordination of professional, feasible and innovative events. A qualifying learner will be able to demonstrate knowledge of the event industry and put that knowledge into practice in coordinating and executing quality small, medium and micro events to a level of professionalism expected by the client. The learner will contribute positively towards supporting the event industry as a part of Southern Africa's services sector.

A learner who has achieved this qualification will be capable of integrating a range of self-organisation and life-long learning skills within a context to produce a professional event that adheres to the high quality standards set by the South African tourism and hospitality industry.
In addition, expansion into other sub-sectors of tourism and hospitality is also possible by furthering their learning, practice and career within the events industry, either at further levels or in other areas of practice. A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Determine objectives and anticipate the exact needs of the client, advise on certain possibilities to obtain the clear and concise brief and ensure that the needs of the client are met as per given specifications.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of entrepreneurship in relation to events management and coordination as a business venture.
  • Compile a budget and cost estimation to source quotations for related services.
  • Communicate effectively using appropriate methods to maintain effective customer relationships according to organisational standards and customer service of internal and external stakeholders.
  • Collect create and maintain a database of relevant data and contact information of preferred service providers from all key areas that support the event.
  • Apply basic knowledge of relevant legislative, governance, policies and procedures pertaining to the organisation to ensure compliance. Conduct site inspections to determine suitability for specified event according to applicable health and safety regulations and cancellation policies.
  • Plan, negotiate, organise, coordinate and control internal tasks and responsibilities according to set objectives and maintain records of event aspects including financial document.
  • Ensure that a particular event is fit for purpose, displaying a client-driven approach and sensitivity to different expectations and requirements of customers within a culturally diverse society.
  • Apply basic project management principles and practices to manage an event.

    Rationale:
    The Events and Conferencing industry is dynamic and continually evolving thereby creating a demand for professional services within the international arena contributing to new venture creation and employment opportunities. This industry makes a significant contribution to both the South African national economy and to the global economy. The growth in the industry is amongst others, resultant from South Africa's involvement in international business, conferencing, sports and other events. In Africa, South Africa has four of the top ten most popular convention cities: Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg and Pretoria.

    The Occupational Certificate: Conference and Events Organiser is designed to provide learners with skills that will enable them to access opportunities in the South African Tourism Conference Industry. This qualification aligns to the standards required by Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) industry relating to Events Management. It also provides learners with the planning skills and management perspective needed when venturing into a career in New Venture Creations or contracted employment by large companies, hotels, local authorities, charities, specialist conference companies.

    The aim of this qualification is to provide a solid industry related foundation, availing opportunities for the individual to enter this employment sector with the applicable background and skills in order to embark on a variety of career choices in this industry. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result or certifying a work experience record.

    RPL for access to the qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements.

    Entry Requirements:
  • Level 4 with Communication. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of compulsory Knowledge, Practical Skills and Work Experience Modules at Level 3, 4 and 5 totalling 277 credits.

    Knowledge Modules, 119 Credits:
  • 333201000-KM-01: Introduction to events industry, Level 5, 10 Credits.
  • 333201000-KM-02: Basic food and beverage service, Level 4, 10 Credits.
  • 333201000-KM-03: Resource and procurement management, Level 5, Credits 5 Credits.
  • 333201000-KM-04: Event Planning, Level 5, 15 Credits.
  • 333201000-KM-05: Office protocol, deportment and etiquette, Level 5, 5 Credits.
  • 333201000-KM-06: Project management, Level 5, 15 Credits.
  • 333201000-KM-07: New Venture Creation, Level 5, 10 Credits.
  • 333201000-KM-08: Social media and Digital literacy, Level 4, 5 Credits.
  • 333201000-KM-09: Business communication and customer services, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 333201000-KM-10: Ready for work standards, Level 4, 5 Credits.
  • 333201000-KM-11: End User Computing, Level 3, 6 Credits.
  • 333201000-KM-12: Basic business calculations, Level 4, 5 Credits.
  • 333201000-KM-13: Exhibition or Special Events Elements, Level 5, 5 Credits.
  • 333201000-KM-14: Marketing Events, Level 4, 10 Credits.
  • 333201000-KM-15: Conference and Event Administration, Level 4, 5 Credits.

    Practical Skill Modules, 85 Credits:
  • 333201000-PM-01: Manage a small project, Level 5, 10 Credits.
  • 333201000-PM-02: Address protocol requirements, Level 5, 5 Credits.
  • 333201000-PM-03: Prepare quotations, Level 5, 10 Credits.
  • 333201000-PM-04: Determine event feasibility, Level 5, 15 Credits.
  • 333201000-PM-05: Prepare, install and dismantle exhibition elements, Level 5, 10 Credits.
  • 333201000-PM-06: Plan and cost basic menus, Level 5, 5 Credits.
  • 333201000-PM-07: Undertake small business planning, Level 5, 10 Credits.
  • 333201000-PM-08: Plan in-house events or functions, Level 5, 15 Credits.
  • 333201000-PM-09: Plan a conference, Level 4, 5 Credits.

    Work Experience Modules, 73 Credits:
  • 333201000-WM-01: Planning and coordinating processes for at least two conferences or events, Level 5, 40 Credits.
  • 333201000-WM-02: Handle customer and clients queries and liaison, Level 5, 8 Credits.
  • 333201000-WM-03: Apply ready for work standards to everyday work activities, Level 5, 25 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Determine objectives and anticipate the exact needs of the client, advise on certain possibilities to obtain the clear and concise brief and ensure that the needs of the client are met as per given specifications.
    2. Demonstrate an understanding of entrepreneurship in relation to events management and coordination as a business venture.
    3. Compile a budget and cost estimation to source quotations for related services.
    4. Communicate effectively using appropriate methods to maintain effective customer relationships according to organisational standards and customer service of internal and external stakeholders.
    5. Collect create and maintain a database of relevant data and contact information of preferred service providers from all key areas that support the event.
    6. Apply basic knowledge of relevant legislative, governance, policies and procedures pertaining to the organisation to ensure compliance. Conduct site inspections to determine suitability for specified event according to applicable health and safety regulations and cancellation policies.
    7. Plan, negotiate, organise, coordinate and control internal tasks and responsibilities according to set objectives and maintain records of event aspects including financial documents.
    8. Ensure that a particular event is fit for purpose, displaying a client-driven approach and sensitivity to different expectations and requirements of customers within a culturally diverse society.
    9. Apply basic project management principles and practices to manage an event. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Plan event design and decor.
  • Arrange functions rooms and meetings.
  • Co-ordinate food and beverage service for the event.
  • Develop and acquire admission systems, audio-visual requirements and other services required.
  • Understand and apply the life cycle of events and process of event planning.
  • Understand and apply event programming.
  • Understand and apply key features of event staging.
  • Understand and apply the nature and scope of events and conferences.
  • Understand and apply the principles and procedures related to planning and coordination of events and conference.
  • Organise an event and conference is according to specifications given.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Explain the fundamentals of entrepreneurship and describe its constructive contributions to the economy.
  • Define the unique characteristics of entrepreneurs that affect the different nature of contributions to the business world.
  • Explain the principles, scope and features of creativity and innovation, and discuss its impact on new business ventures.
  • Draw up a structured business plan as a management tool and general guide to a new enterprise.
  • Research the steps in starting a new venture supported by available financial resources in South Africa.
  • Debate about the resource, legal and related requirements to establish own business venture.
  • Evaluate the availability of network and support systems in the business environment to emerging entrepreneurs in South Africa.
  • Debate about the determinants in business failure and turnaround measures, harvesting and exiting a venture.
  • Critically discuss the interplay between different components of a functional business plan.
  • Conceptualise, plan and generate a detailed functional business plan.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Discuss the significance of the budget, managing expenses and cash flow and compile a budget for the event.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Discuss the features, types and organization of successful corporate meetings and events.
  • Describe the requirements of a professional conference event.
  • List ancillary programmes to promote interest in and enhance the value of a corporate and conference event.
  • Provide customer service in accordance with operational and diversity requirements.
  • Understand and apply communication principles and techniques applicable to event presentations.
  • Assess and apply requirements concerning planning and preparation of a presentation.
  • Conduct a presentation that supports a particular event management activity.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • File data and records and kept up to date with relevant information.
  • Create and maintain an event administration system which meets the expectations of the organisation and preserves the integrity of records.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Demonstrate an understanding of Event Management and the dynamics of the sector.
  • Analyse and apply various event marketing principles and strategies.
  • Describe the role of the event triangle and other significant role players.
  • Describe the health, safety and security requirements as it applies to the events industry.
  • Develop and implement service excellence strategies for the planning of events.
  • Apply event programming procedures.
  • Develop and implement Risk Management strategies in relation to compliance issues per site.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Develop, plan and organise various types of events.
  • Plan and implement various stages of the event planning process and various factors for consideration (Range: includes but not limited to, schedules, detailed event-brief, time management plan, GANNT chart, menus and letters).
  • Analyse and apply event-marketing strategies (Range: includes but not limited to proposal, report, business plan and Memorandum of Understanding [MOU]).
  • Design, organise and coordinate Public Relations and Media activities.
  • Plan, coordinate and manage event operations and logistics.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Develop a client brief with the purpose of the event.
  • Analyse the function sheet to determine whether the event is fit for purpose.
  • Obtain approval of the event plan from the client to ensure that all requirements are met as per given specifications.
  • Make recommendations to the client regarding alternatives or possibilities and implement once client approves the recommendations.
  • Apply customer service techniques to enhance service expectations.
  • Adhere to protocol and deportment requirements, to ensure sensitivity to a culturally diverse society.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • Demonstrate different phases and processes of project management in an events management context.
  • Apply basic principles of project management in the context of event management.

    Integrated Assessment:

    Integrated Formative Assessment:
    The skills development provider will use the curriculum to guide them on the stipulated internal assessment criteria and weighting. They will also apply the scope of practical skills and applied knowledge as stipulated by the internal assessment criteria. This formative assessment leads to entrance into the integrated external summative assessment.

    Integrated Summative Assessment:
    An external integrated summative assessment, conducted through the relevant Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) Assessment Quality Partner is required for the issuing of this qualification. The external integrated summative assessment will focus on the Exit Level Outcomes and associated assessment criteria. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Australia and Scotland were used for international comparability against this qualification. This qualification compares favourably with the following qualifications:

    Australia, SIT50316 Diploma of Event Management is offered, This qualification reflects the role of individuals who use a broad range of event-related skills and sound knowledge of event management processes to coordinate event operations. Marketing and Public Relations, Food and Beverage and Work Health and Safety are some of the similar units covered in the modules of the Conference and Events Organiser which contribute to the learners being able to operate independently and make operational event management decisions.

    This Australian qualification provides a pathway to work for event or exhibition organisations operating in a range of industries or related sectors including the tourism and travel, hospitality, sport and culture. However, the Diploma of Event Management includes travel and tourism whereas the Occupational Certificate: Conference and Events Organiser focuses on hospitality and events.

    Scotland, Events and Higher National Diploma (HND) Events Management is offered. Higher National qualifications provide practical skills and theoretical knowledge that meet the needs of employers. The Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Events (SCQF Level 7) develops knowledge in areas such as events planning, legislation, marketing, budgeting and funding.

    The HND in Events Management (SCQF Level 8) builds on the knowledge and skills of the HNC and enhances skills in events planning, contemporary issues, sustainability, management, budgeting and funding, legislation, marketing and communication.

    Higher National (HN) qualifications developed by SQA in partnership with colleges, universities and industry, so that employers may recognise that they provide sound evidence of ability, which is similar to the South African occupational qualification development principles in terms of involving colleges, industry and employers as members of our Community of Expert Practitioners (CEPs).

    The learning units in the Scotland qualification include Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Communications, Marketing, Project Management and Food and Beverage, which are some of the similar units covered in the content of the modules in Conference and Events Organiser Occupational Qualification. This compares favourably in terms of learning areas within both qualifications.

    Conclusion:
    The Conference and Events Organiser qualification compares well with the above international countries in terms of learning areas and level of complexity. 

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification provides opportunities for both horizontal and vertical articulation.

    Horizontally Articulation with:
  • National Diploma: Event Co-ordination, Level 5.
  • Higher Certificate in Events Management, Level 5.
  • Higher Certificate: Events Management, 5.

    Vertically Articulation with:
  • Diploma in Hospitality Management, Level 6. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    N/A 

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.