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: 

Higher Certificate in Local Government Management 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
123066  Higher Certificate in Local Government Management 
ORIGINATOR
Regent Business School (Pty) Ltd t/a Regent Business School 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
CHE - Council on Higher Education  HEQSF - Higher Education Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Higher Certificate  Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies  Public Administration 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Not Applicable  NQF Level 05  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0628/24  2024-11-21  2027-11-21 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-11-21   2031-11-21  

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 Higher Certificate in Local Government Management aims to equip learners with discipline-specific skills in the local government sector, especially in areas such as human resource development, service delivery, ethics, finance management, and decision-making.

The qualification provides learners with foundational competence that will enable them to pursue personal intellectual growth, more meaningful employment opportunities such as entry-level local government management positions, and a capacity to make a positive contribution to society within the local government service delivery. environment
The qualification will expose learners to critical thinking, problem-solving and decision-making through conceptual knowledge acquisition and practical application of the subject matter.
In addition, the qualification enables learners to integrate theory and practice and become adaptable by developing an understanding of the nature of local government middle managerial work. The qualification also includes policy processes to enable learners to appreciate and apply a wide range of policy issues relevant to the workplace and the environment.

Upon completion of the qualification, qualifying learners will be able to:
  • Assess local government management-related information pertaining to policy issues.
  • Apply local government policy theories to rules and concepts within local government contexts.
  • Demonstrate understanding of the political, social, and economic environments in which local government management is practised.
  • Communicate local government management-related issues effectively.
  • Display knowledge of workforce planning, implementation, and maintenance particularly relating to local government sector and human resource development issues.
  • Communicate with all stakeholders by demonstrating the collaboration of communities and the local government in achieving quantifiable service delivery.
  • Promote ethical and professional leadership standards in the local government work environment from a governance perspective.
  • Facilitate accountability to a local government finance system.

    Rationale:
    The Higher Certificate in Local Government Management is offered to meet the continued demand for an entry-level local government qualification that focuses on local government. It aims to provide the appropriate foundational knowledge to enable persons to function effectively at a middle management level in the local government context.
    It also enables learners to articulate into the Bachelor of Public Administration undergraduate degree.
    Building the capacity of local government servants to provide constructive service delivery is one of the key tools for the successful implementation of the government's strategic priorities and programme of action. According to South African's needs, an efficient, capable, and value-based local government administration.

    This qualification equips learners with theoretical competencies in various aspects of local government management, such as policy processes, human resource development, local government service delivery, ethics, and financial management. The qualification also aims to give learners a conceptual understanding of the quality and quantity of local government service delivery and the service management issues and staff development in the local government sector.

    This qualification is designed to develop the skills and knowledge of individuals who aspire to play a role in local government that enhances, diversifies, and strengthens the management base for innovation and proficiency-based service delivery activities in the local government environment.

    The qualification covers areas of managerial expertise, such as the principles and theories of middle management practice, local government management, human resource management, governance and leadership, and financial accountability. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    RPL provides alternative access and admission to qualifications, as well as advancement within qualifications. RPL will be applied to accommodate applicants who qualify.

    RPL for access:
  • Learners who do not meet the minimum entrance requirements or the required qualification that is at the same NQF level as the qualification required for admission may be considered for admission through RPL.
  • To be considered for admission in the qualification based on RPL, applicants should provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that they have acquired the relevant knowledge, skills, and competencies through formal, non-formal and/or informal learning to cope with the qualification expectations.

    RPL for exemption of modules:
  • Learners may apply for RPL to be exempted from modules that form part of the qualification. For a learner to be exempted from a module, the learner needs to provide sufficient evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates that competency was achieved for the learning outcomes that are equivalent to the learning outcomes of the module.

    RPL for credit:
  • Learners may also apply for RPL for credit for or towards the qualification, in which they must provide evidence in the form of a portfolio that demonstrates prior learning through formal, non-formal and/or informal learning to obtain credits towards the qualification.
  • Credit shall be appropriate to the context in which it is awarded and accepted.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4, granting access to Higher Certificate studies.
    Or
  • Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4, granting access to Higher Certificate studies.
    Or
  • National Certificate Vocational, NQF Level 4. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 5 totalling 120 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules, NQF Level 5, totalling 120 Credits.
  • Policy Processes, 20 Credits.
  • Local Government Management, 20 Credits.
  • Human Resource Management, 20 Credits.
  • Local Government Service Delivery, 20 Credits.
  • Governance and Leadership, 20 Credits.
  • Financial Accountability, 20 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Apply policy theories and processes to address local government issues and challenges.
    2. Analyse the political, social, and economic environments in which local government management is practiced and assess their implications for local government service delivery.
    3. Manage human resources effectively and ethically in the local government sector by applying relevant theories, principles and practices of workforce planning, implementation and maintenance.
    4. Demonstrate the skills (such as communication, consultation, collaboration, and problem-solving) and knowledge required for effective local government service delivery.
    5. Promote ethical leadership in the local government sector work environment by applying governance principles and frameworks.
    6. Facilitate financial accountability in the local government sphere by applying finance concepts, systems, and regulations. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 1.
  • Explain the main concepts, terms, and processes of local government policy processes and their relevance to the local government context.
  • Analyse the factors and actors that influence local government policy agenda setting, design, implementation and evaluation.
  • Apply policy theories and frameworks to address local government issues and challenges and propose evidence-based solutions.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 2.
  • Describe the roles and responsibilities of different levels of government and municipalities in local government management and service delivery are described.
  • Assess the performance and accountability of local government managers, councillors, and officials in relation to policy implementation and service delivery standards.
  • Illustrate the skills and knowledge required for effective local government management, such as research, planning, coordination, communication, and evaluation.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 3.
  • Manage human resources effectively and ethically in the local government sector by applying relevant theories, principles and practices of workforce planning, implementation, and maintenance.
  • Explain and apply the main concepts, principles, and practices of human resource development in the local government sector.
  • Implement human resource planning and development qualifications for local government staff in relation to recruitment, selection, appointment, orientation, motivation, career and performance management, and talent and retention management.
  • Assess the effectiveness and impact of human resource development strategies and interventions in relation to employee wellness, employment equity, affirmative action, and compensation.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 4.
  • Describe and analyse the role and responsibilities of institutions and municipal organisations in providing sustainable services to communities in accordance with the relevant legislation and policies.
  • Assess the skills and knowledge required for effective community engagement and service delivery, such as communication, consultation, collaboration, problem-solving, and quality and quantity assessment.
  • Analyse the processes and challenges of financing municipal services in relation to local government deliverables and accountability.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 5.
  • Explain and apply the main concepts, theories, and frameworks of governance and leadership in the local government context.
  • Analyse ethical value systems, codes of conduct, and ubuntu philosophy to enhance local professionalism, social responsibility, and service delivery.
  • Propose the causes and consequences of unethical behaviour in the local government sector and identify solutions to improve integrity and accountability.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 6.
  • Explain the legislative framework that governs local government finance methods, particularly in relation to revenue, expenditure, assets, and liabilities.
  • Apply and assess financial administration techniques to manage municipal planning and budgeting, revenue, cash and expenditure management, procurement, asset management, reporting, and oversight.
  • Critically analyse the powers, roles and functions of other relevant people and structures in ensuring financial governance in the local government. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Country: United States of America
    Institution: Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
    Qualification title: Certificate in Local Government Management
    Credits:12

    Purpose/Rationale:
    The Certificate in Local Government Management provides the next generation of local government managers and leaders with the tools to advance their careers and to provide exceptional leadership within the communities where they work. The central goal of the program is to offer graduate-level training in local government management that both prepares pre-career learners for capable local government service at the local level and enhances the capacities of existing local government employees who aspire to be town, city, or county managers or assistant/deputy managers.
    Learners who complete the certificate may apply for entrance as a degree-seeking learner in the CPAP MPA program and transfer all twelve credit hours towards their MPA.

    Course structure
    Modules:
  • Local Government and the Professional Manager, comparable to Local Government Management.
  • Human Resources, Financial
  • Performance Management for Local Government Managers, comparable to Human Resource Management.
  • The Context of Local Government Management in Virginia
  • Local Economic Development Planning
  • Planning Administration

    Similarities:
  • The Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (VPISU) and the South African (SA) qualifications both prepare learners for further studies and entrance into degree qualification.
  • Both qualifications prepare learners for effective local government service delivery and share a similar module, Performance Management for Local Government Managers, comparable to Human Resource Management.
  • The VPISU offers graduate-level training in local government management that both prepares pre-career learners for capable local government service and enhances the capacities of existing local government employees who aspire to be town, city, or county managers or assistant/deputy managers.
  • The SA qualification aims to provide the appropriate foundational knowledge to enable persons to function effectively at a middle management level in the local government context.

    Differences:
  • The SA qualification accepts learners who have completed a senior certificate and consists of 120 credits.
  • The VPISU is offered to local government employees and consists of 12 credits.

    Country: Canada
    Institution: University of Regina
    Qualification title: Certificate in Local Government Administration
    Duration: One year
    Credits: 15

    Purpose/Rationale:
    The Certificate in Local Government Administration qualification is designed to give learners the knowledge and skills they need to assume positions in various fields of local government administration. The Urban and Rural Boards of Examiners have made completion of this program an educational requirement of certification for the offices of the administrator of a rural or an urban municipality. The program is delivered predominantly online.
    Learners who wish to pursue further studies may apply the LG courses (12 credit hours) to the Advanced Certificate in Local Government Administration Modules

    Course Structure
    Modules:
  • Introduction to Local Government Administration, compared to Local Government Management.
  • Local Government Legislation and Statute Law
  • Basic Accounting Practices, compared to Financial Accountability.
  • Local Government Accounting
  • Special Topics in Local Government

    Similarities:
  • The University of Regina (UR) and the South African qualifications are offered over one year.
  • Both qualifications share similar modules, such as Financial Accountability, and Local Government administration and management.
  • The SA qualification aims to equip learners with discipline-specific skills in the local goverment, and foundational competence that will enable them to pursue personal intellectual growth and more meaningful employment opportunities such as entry-level local government management positions.
  • Similarly, the UR qualification is designed to give learners the knowledge and skills they need to assume positions in various fields of local government administration. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Higher Certificate in Local Government and Development Management, NQF Level 5.
  • Higher Certificate in Administrative Information Management, NQF Level 5.
  • Higher Certificate in Administration, NQF Level 5.
  • Higher Certificate in Business Administration, NQF Level 5.
  • Higher Certificate in Business Management in Operational Management, NQF Level 5.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Diploma in Local Government Finance, NQF Level 6.
  • Diploma in Local Government Law and Administration, NQF Level 6.
  • Advanced Certificate in Business Management in Operational Management, NQF Level 6.
  • Advanced Certificate in Local Governance and Management, NQF Level 6.
  • Advanced Certificate in Management, NQF Level 6.

    Diagonal Articulation
    There is no diagonal articulation for this qualification. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    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.
     
    1. Regent Business School (Pty) Ltd t/a Regent Business School 


    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.