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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: Artificial Intelligence Software Developer |
SAQA QUAL ID | QUALIFICATION TITLE | |||
118792 | Occupational Certificate: Artificial Intelligence Software Developer | |||
ORIGINATOR | ||||
Development Quality Partner-MICT SETA | ||||
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY | NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK | |||
- | OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework | |||
QUALIFICATION TYPE | FIELD | SUBFIELD | ||
Occupational Certificate | Field 10 - Physical, Mathematical, Computer and Life Sciences | Information Technology and Computer Sciences | ||
ABET BAND | MINIMUM CREDITS | PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL | NQF LEVEL | QUAL CLASS |
Undefined | 209 | Not Applicable | NQF Level 05 | Regular-ELOAC |
REGISTRATION STATUS | SAQA DECISION NUMBER | REGISTRATION START DATE | REGISTRATION END DATE | |
Registered | EXCO 0522/24 | 2022-02-03 | 2025-12-31 | |
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT | LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT | |||
2026-12-31 | 2029-12-31 |
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 the Occupational Certificate: Artificial Intelligence Software Developer is to prepare a learner to operate as an Artificial Intelligence Software Developer Artificial Intelligence Software Developers build Artificial Intelligence (AI) functionality into software applications through integrating and implementing AI algorithms and logic into the deliverables of an Information Technology (IT) project. Developers teach the machine to solve problems the way a human would through the use of programming. They create, test and deploy code. These developers also assist in converting machine learning Application Programming Interface (APIs) so that other applications can use them. A qualified learner will be able to: Rationale: This qualification has been developed in response to the report of the Presidential Commission on the 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR). This report forefronts human capital and the future of work and refers to growing skills instability. The extent of 4IR today and its impact on businesses and the economy, is unparalleled. This implies that companies need to urgently prepare as AI will shape the future of our world more powerfully than any other innovation this century. Research findings indicate that businesses are expected to hire more technology and automation professionals in the future, pointing to the need for well-qualified developers in the AI field. The most sought-after areas of expertise include artificial intelligence, digital customer experience, internet of things and the cloud. AI seems to be revolutionary in its ability to transform the way organisations operate, but without a workforce skilled in technology, any effort by businesses to embrace the adoption of AI initiatives will fail. This qualification focusses on establishing a firm understanding of AI technology, its applications and its use cases. A Masters degree in Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence exists. This Occupational Certificate: Artificial Intelligence Software Developer is thus unique and filling a glaring gap at the entry level of this specialist field and career path. Software developers create the applications or systems that run on a computer or another device. AI software developers build AI functionality into software applications. The role is generally focused on integrating and implementing AI algorithms and logic into the deliverable. AI, machine learning, neural networks and deep learning is a unique field, using specialist tools to create intelligence that mimics human interaction. AI developers use machine learning to create intelligence. The IT sector and the economy will benefit from AI as it can dramatically improve the efficiencies of our workplaces, augmenting the work humans can do and reducing the consequences of human error. When AI takes over repetitive or dangerous tasks, it frees up the human workforce and enables people to use their creativity for verification, validity, security, control and so forth. There are many ways in which AI will benefit society: AI is facilitating major advances in healthcare, and it improves customer service and the human experience. In short, AI has revolutionised the ease and dynamics with which humans interact with their environment. The typical learners identified for this qualification are school leavers, qualified learners from TVET colleges, new entrants into the sector and existing employees who have experience in this field, but without formal recognition of skills and competencies. Professionals who want to augment their careers may also access this qualification. The qualification is structured to enable individuals without prior learning in the field of information technology to acquire the knowledge and skills to seamlessly enter the field of work. No professional registration or licencing is expected for AI Software Developers to seek employment in the sector. AI Software Developers can be employed as AI Researchers, Machine Learning Engineers, Machine Learning Researchers, AI Architects, AI Engineers, AI Technicians, AI Developers, Business Intelligence (BI) Developers and working with engineering teams in the field of intelligent robotics. |
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. RPL for Access to the Qualification: 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. Entry Requirements: The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is: |
RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? |
Y |
QUALIFICATION RULES |
This qualification is made up of compulsory Knowledge, Practical Skill and Work Experience Modules:
Knowledge Modules Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 86 Practical Skill Modules Level 5, 4 Credits. 6 Credits. 4 Credits. Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 63 Work Experience Modules 20 Credits. 20 Credits. Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 60 |
EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES |
1. Gather and interpret data from various sources to define an AI solution to a real-life world problem.
2. Critically analyse data and create a solution design document (SDD) that defines an artificial intelligence (AI) solution that solves a real-life world problem. 3. Choose a type or category of AI learning and the relevant algorithm to analyse data, gain insight and make subsequent prediction, or create a determination with it. 4. Train the AI model through a machine learning process and ensure that model accuracy is strictly maintained within the selection framework. 5. Select a machine learning system and build an artificial intelligence (AI) solution to a real-life world problem. 6. Implement and run the AI solution on a selected platform and check the prediction results in real-life use, then select and run the AI solution on a platform. |
ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA |
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6: 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 together with work experience leads to entrance in the integrated external summative assessment. Integrated summative assessment An external integrated summative assessment, conducted through the relevant 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. The external integrated summative assessment will be conducted through a theoretical assessment and the evaluation of practical tasks at decentralised approved assessment sites in a simulated environment and conducted by an assessor(s) registered with the relevant AQP. |
INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY |
This qualification was compared to the following international qualifications:
The Certificate Program in Artificial Intelligence offered by Grey Campus (with offices all over the world, including Toronto, Dubai and Mumbai) in collaboration with IBM. The Certificate Program in Artificial Intelligence from Grey Campus is a blend of self-paced content with live-online classes including lab and project work as practical. The program combines Data Science, Machine Learning, Deep Learning and Artificial Intelligence and focusses on a solid understanding of the tools and models. In the case of the Certificate Program in Artificial Intelligence the target group is specified as Business analysts, Information architects, qualified learners and other experienced professionals, thus indicating prior learning and experience in the IT field. The level and duration (credits) are not specified other than a reference to "self-paced". The duration is not specified other than a reference to "self-paced". Specific objectives covered include: Differences: In the case of the Certificate Program in Artificial Intelligence the target group is specified as Business analysts, Information architects, qualified learner and other experienced professionals, thus indicating prior learning and experience in the IT field while the Occupational Certificate: Artificial Intelligence Software Developer focusses on school leavers, qualified learners from TVET colleges, new entrants into the sector and existing employees who have experience in this field, but without formal recognition of skills and competencies. Professionals who want to augment their careers may also access this qualification. Furthermore, the Certificate Program in Artificial Intelligence is self-paced and there are no prerequisites, and no prior knowledge is assumed. With the Occupational Certificate: Artificial Intelligence Software Developer there is workplace learning regulated for learners to gain meaningful practical experience under supervision and guidance. Similarities: Certificate Program in Artificial Intelligence is a foundational qualification (thus entry level). Furthermore, it states that it covers all the basics before moving to more complex aspects. Both qualifications include theory/knowledge and practical sessions. The Occupational Certificate: Artificial Intelligence Software Developer covers similar topics as the Certificate Program in Artificial Intelligence. United States of America: The second comparison was drawn with a Microsoft standard (certification exam), namely the Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Fundamentals and a preparatory qualification that is presented by Cloud Academy in San Francisco. Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Fundamentals leads to a certification exam according to a Microsoft specific standard. Prerequisites stated for the Azure AI Fundamentals certification include foundational knowledge of machine learning (ML), artificial intelligence (AI) concepts and related Microsoft Azure services. The target group is specified as persons with technical and non-technical backgrounds. Data science and software engineering experience are not required; however, some general programming knowledge or experience would be beneficial. The qualification is designed as a blended learning experience that combines instructor-led training with online materials on the Microsoft Learn platform and includes hands-on exercises. Learners are tested to demonstrate competencies in: Differences: Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Fundamentals qualification includes and is different to the Occupational Certificate: Artificial Intelligence Software Developer in terms of the following: Similarities: The compared Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Fundamentals and the Occupational Certificate: Artificial Intelligence Software Developer cover similar content and both include a practical aspect. Conclusion The South African Occupational Certificate: Artificial Intelligence Software Developer qualification compares favourably with the competencies covered in USA and UAE qualifications. |
ARTICULATION OPTIONS |
This qualification provides opportunities for horizontal and vertical articulation options.
Horizontal Articulation: Vertical Articulation: |
NOTES |
Qualifying for External Assessment:
To qualify for an external assessment, learners must provide proof of completion of all required knowledge and practical modules by means of statements of results and a record of completed work experience. Additional Legal or Physical Entry Requirements: Criteria for the accreditation of providers Accreditation of providers will be done against the criteria as reflected in the relevant curriculum on the QCTO website. The curriculum title and code are: Artificial Intelligence Software Developer: 251201-002-00-00. Encompassed Trade: This qualification encompasses the following trades as recorded on the NLRD: Assessment Quality Partner (AQP) LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: |
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. |