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: 

Advanced Certificate in Digital Banking 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
125037  Advanced Certificate in Digital Banking 
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
Advanced Certificate  Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies  Generic Management 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  120  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered  EXCO 0836/25  2025-11-13  2028-11-13 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2029-11-13   2032-11-13  

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 Advanced Certificate in Digital Banking is to develop professionals in the banking sector who possess the necessary digital and banking skills to meet the demands of the 21st century and to allow professionals to operate professionally in a more senior role. The qualification will thus provide a basic level of higher education knowledge and ensure that the qualifying learner is able to apply such knowledge and competence in an occupation or role in the workplace and will also allow for the performance of varied roles in banking sector.

The banking industry has been disrupted by digital transformation, leading to the need for professionals with skills in areas such as data analytics, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. The qualification aims to address these skills gaps by providing learners with an understanding of an insights into digital banking concepts and tools.

The qualification aims to address the needs of the South African banking industry, which has been impacted by increased competition and regulatory changes. The South African banking sector is experiencing a shift towards digital banking, which requires financial services employees with specific skills and competencies. The qualification is designed to provide graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a digital banking environment.

The following trends support the need and purpose for the qualification:
  • Employers in the banking sector: The banking sector in South Africa is rapidly evolving, with increasing use of technology to deliver financial services. As such, employers in this sector may value employees with specialised digital banking skills and knowledge, which this qualification will provide. The qualification can help to bridge the skills gap in the sector, which can contribute to increased productivity and competitiveness across the sector.
  • Employees in the banking sector: Employees in the banking sector may benefit from acquiring new digital banking skills and knowledge that can help them to adapt to the changing demands of their jobs (both locally and internationally). The qualification will also help enhance their career prospects, increase their earning potential, and improve their job satisfaction and engagement.
  • Regulators and policymakers: Regulators and policymakers in South Africa are increasingly focusing on the digitalisation of the banking sector, with the aim of promoting financial inclusion, enhancing consumer protection and improving the overall stability of the financial system. This qualification will help support these efforts by producing professionals with specialised digital banking skills and knowledge that can contribute to the overall development of the sector.
  • Consumers of banking services: Customers of banking services in South Africa are becoming more technologically savvy and are increasingly demanding digital banking services that are convenient, secure and efficient. The qualification will help produce professionals who can design and deliver digital banking services that meet the evolving needs of customers, which will improve customer satisfaction and loyalty.

    Rationale:
    This qualification takes the current demands of the banking industry into account and will appeal to learners who seek employment or are employed in banking services organisation.

    The BANKSETA Sector Skills Plan 2020 - 2025 reiterates the current and future focused skills requirements in the banking sector. Specific reference is given to Skills Priority Action which refers to five (5) Strategic Focus Priorities within which digitisation, digital literacy, cyber security, analytics, management, professional and leadership development, core banking products/services and customer centricity are at the core focus.

    This qualification will contribute to responding to the critical skills needs and the development and transference of these key skills across the sector, thus promoting transformation and innovation. This qualification will also seek to provide a platform and articulation pathway for the "large middle" employees in the banking and financial services sector.

    The qualification is designed to address the growing need for digital skills in the banking sector in South Africa. With the increased use of technology and the growth of digital banking, it is important for banking professionals to acquire the necessary skills to meet the changing needs of customers and remain competitive in the industry.

    The development of the qualification is supported by various stakeholders in the banking industry, including the Banking Association of South Africa (BASA), which recognises the importance of investing in skills development to ensure the sustainability of the banking sector (BASA, 2021). In addition, the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) has emphasised the need for banks to embrace digital technologies and has encouraged the development of digital skills in the sector (SARB, 2019).

    Furthermore, the qualification aligns with the government's National Development Plan (NDP) and the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) strategy, which emphasises the need for skills development and digital transformation in various sectors, including banking (Republic of South Africa, 2012; Department of Communications and Digital Technologies, 2019). The qualification also supports the goals of the Financial Sector Code (FSC), which aims to promote transformation and skills development in the financial sector (Financial Sector Charter Council, 2018).

    The qualification is a response to the growing demand for digital skills in the banking sector and is supported by various stakeholders, including industry associations, regulatory bodies and government policies. By providing banking professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the digital landscape, the qualification contributes to the sustainability and growth of the banking sector in South Africa and adds to the competitiveness of the sector. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):RPL for access:

    Regent Business School (RBS) recognises the importance of the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process in ensuring that applicants that possess skills acquired through life (maturity) or work experience and non-formal education are catered for, for possible admission into the qualification. The RPL assessment will focus on ways of evaluating an applicant's lifelong experiences (formal and informal) against pre-determined criteria. Recognition of prior learning takes account of:
  • Formal study
  • Cumulative work experience
  • Studies (formal and informal) that were undertaken for the purpose of personal gain/interest
  • Company - based training
  • Industry - based training working with experts/ internships
  • Motivation to undertake the qualification

    RPL for access:
    Admission/Exemption from producing qualifications that reflect the minimum selection requirements is granted for RPL when in the assessment of the selection committee, the candidate's knowledge and skills correspond to the learning outcomes of the qualification or for specific module/s for which credit is applied. It is important to remember that the selection committee will focus on the quality and not the quantity of prior learning and/or experience. Some of the criteria that are used in evaluating non-standard' applicants include:
  • The applicants' motivation, maturity and realistic approach to their studies.
  • Their job description, covering relevant area of work, giving examples of tasks carried out and possibly supplying references.
  • The nature and level of life/ work experience and prior study, and the learning which has resulted from such experience.
  • Details of in-company short courses, length, content of material covered, standards achieved
  • The clarity of the applicant's educational goals and objectives
  • The extent to which the applicant can provide evidence of the threshold skills and knowledge for the qualification, a Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) will be obtained from the applicant. In keeping with the national norms, the committee will not exceed the stipulated Higher Education benchmark percentage for RPL admissions of the learner population for the qualification.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum entry requirement for this qualification is:
  • Higher Certificate in Banking, NQF Level 5.
    Or
  • Higher Certificate in Banking Services, NQF Level 5.
    Or
  • Higher Certificate in Banking Practice in the Digital Age, NQF Level 5. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification consists of the following compulsory modules at National Qualifications Framework Level 6, totalling 120 Credits.

    Compulsory Modules at NQF Level 7, 120 Credits:
  • Introduction to Digital Banking, 15 Credits.
  • Project Management for Digital Banking, 15 Credits.
  • Digital Payment Systems and E-Banking Services, 15 Credits.
  • Introduction to Blockchain and Cryptocurrency, 15 Credits.
  • Digital Marketing for Banks, 15 Credits.
  • Data Analytics for Digital Banking, 15 Credits.
  • Digital Banking Security, 15 Credits.
  • Digital Transformation in Banking, 15 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Display knowledge of the regulatory framework for banking in South Africa.
    2. Respond to the impact of digital technology on the banking industry.
    3. Develop and implement strategies for digital transformation in the sector.
    4. Manage risks associated with digital banking.
    5. Understand emerging technologies and trends in the banking industry.
    6. Use data and analytics to make informed decisions.
    7. Demonstrate knowledge and impact of blockchain and cryptocurrency in the banking industry.
    8. Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of digital banking.
    9. Display Knowledge of security measures and protocols.
    10. Manage digital banking security risks and the protection of sensitive information.
    11. Understand the marketing management and related functions for the sector.
    12. Utilise project management skills in managing digital banking products and services. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
  • Apply knowledge of the key laws and regulatory frameworks governing banking in South Africa
  • Analyse how the regulatory environment influences banking operations, compliance processes, and ethical practices.
  • Evaluate the implications of non-compliance and demonstrate understanding of how regulation ensures financial integrity and consumer protection.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Identify, discuss and interpret how digital technologies such as mobile platforms, fintech innovations and AI are transforming banking operations.
  • Evaluate how technological disruption affects customer expectations, service delivery and banking operations.
  • Apply knowledge of digital technologies to propose solutions that enhance service delivery and competitiveness in banking.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Evaluate and use relevant information to develop and implement strategies for digital transformation.
  • Analyse internal and external factors influencing digital transformation within the banking sector.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of digital transformation strategies in improving organisational agility and customer experience in banking.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Identify and categorise key risks in digital banking environments.
  • Apply risk management processes to assess, monitor, mitigate and control digital banking risks.
  • Evaluate existing mitigation strategies and recommend improvements to strengthen digital banking resilience and compliance.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Evaluate and understand emerging technologies and trends in the banking industry.
  • Identify key emerging technologies and explain their relevance to modern and digital banking.
  • Evaluate how technological trends are reshaping financial services, customer interaction and financial inclusion.
  • Apply analytical thinking to assess opportunities and threats associated with emerging technologies.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Collect and interpret banking-related data using basic data analytics tools and techniques.
  • Apply analytical insights to inform business decisions, improve performance, and enhance client engagement.
  • Evaluate the accuracy, reliability, and ethical use of data in digital banking contexts.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 7:
  • Demonstrate understanding of key principles underpinning digital banking.
  • Evaluate digital banking operations - including online platforms, automation and customer engagement models.
  • Apply digital banking principles to assess operational efficiency, innovation and customer service.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 8:
  • Apply cybersecurity principles and best practices to safeguard digital banking systems.
  • Identify and interpret various authentication, encryption and access control measures used in protecting data integrity.
  • Evaluate how security protocols contribute to trust and operational safety within digital banking systems and environments

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 9:
  • Demonstrate foundational understanding of blockchain technology and cryptocurrency principles.
  • Evaluate the impact of blockchain and cryptocurrency in banking.
  • Analyse the potential benefits, risks and applications of blockchain in banking and payment systems.
  • Apply critical thinking to propose ways banks can responsibly integrate blockchain technologies to enhance transparency and efficiency.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 10:
  • Implement risk mitigation plans to effectively manage security risks and the protection of information.
  • Identify common vulnerabilities and threats associated with digital banking and sensitive customer information.
  • Apply data protection frameworks to ensure secure handling of customer and organisational information.
  • Evaluate and recommend improvements to existing risk mitigation and information security practices.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 11:
  • Apply marketing principles to develop digital marketing initiatives suited to banking products and services.
  • Analyse customer data to design targeted marketing campaigns that improve client engagement and retention.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of marketing initiatives and recommend adjustments for enhanced performance in the sector.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 12:
  • Apply project management principles to digital banking initiatives.
  • Evaluate project progress against scope, time and cost constraints to ensure successful delivery and outcomes.
  • Analyse outcomes and propose strategies to enhance the efficiency and success of future projects.

    INTEGRATED ASSESSMENT
    The assessment of the modules in the Advanced Certificate in Digital Banking consists of formative continuous assessments and a summative examination.

    Formative assessment
    The final mark is computed as a weighted average of 40% of the formative assessments and 60% of the summative examination. There are three (3) formative assessments
  • A quiz.
  • An assignment.
  • A proctored test.

    Summative assessment
  • Examination.

    Learners are required to achieve a sub-minimum of 30% in the formative component and 40% in the summative component. The learner must obtain an overall mark of at least 50% to successfully complete. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Country: South Asia (Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka)
    Institution: National Institute of Business Management
    Qualification Title: Advanced Certificate in Digital Banking and Finance
    Duration: 4 months (part-time)
    Entry requirements:
  • Successfully completed the Certificate in Digital Banking and Finance qualification at NIBM or any other recognized Institute

    Purpose/Rationale:
    The qualification will benefit anyone within the Banking and Financial innovation space, particularly those wanting to adopt the creative methods and strategic approaches within Digital disruption. The qualification investigates the traditional Banking and Financial industries as well as innovation and adoption within emerging economies. The qualification will enable the learner to gain informed knowledge in Digital disruption to evaluate the actors who are driving future innovation, and the technologies which have a lasting impact on the industry.

    The qualification modules:
  • Role of the Financial Systems
  • Financial Statement Analysis
  • Economics Fundamentals
  • Fundamentals of Finance
  • Fundamentals of Banking
  • Digital Banking
  • Digital Finance
  • Big Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence

    Similarities:
  • Both the qualifications are offered for professionals in Banking Sector.
  • Both the qualifications have similar modules.

    Differences:
  • The Sri Lanka qualification is offered for four months part-time whereas the South African qualification is offered for one year.

    Country: Germany
    Institution: Frankfurt School of Finance and Management
    Qualification title: Certified Expert in Digital Finance
    Duration: 6 months

    Purpose/Rationale:
    In this qualification, the learner will learn about the emerging digital landscape as well as the new market participants and products that have disrupted the market. By taking the qualification, the learner will be enabled to successfully deploy digital technologies in the institution and leverage digital financial services (DFS) in the target markets.

    Upon successful completion of this qualification, participants will have profound knowledge and practical skills around the following topics:
  • Understanding the history of financial services to reflect on today´s landscape to better understand future scenarios for financial services
  • Key technologies driving digital finance and financial inclusion
  • Profound knowledge of the digital finance ecosystem and its key stakeholders
  • Key product and innovation areas in digital finance
  • Success factors and business models in digital finance
  • Importance and latest models of regulation and supervision
  • Principles and key trends in risk management around digital financial services
  • Strategic Management of services and business models
  • Rapid design and launch of new customer centric products and services

    The qualification modules:
  • The Digital Finance Ecosystem
  • New Technologies
  • Digital Payments and Remittances
  • Digital Products beyond Payments/Credit/Savings and Insurance
  • Regulation and Supervision in Digital Finance
  • Risk Management in Digital Finance
  • Strategic Management of Digital Financial Services (elective)
  • Customer Centric Product Design (elective)

    Similarities:
  • The development of key skills and knowledge for professionals to succeed in different professions around digital financials services, innovation, and technology implementation as well as in regulation or risk management.
  • Evaluation of the actors who are driving future innovation and the technologies which have a lasting impact on the banking and financial services industry.

    Differences:
  • The German qualification is offered for 6 months whereas the South African qualification is offered for one year. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Advanced Certificate in Banking Services, NQF Level 6.
  • Advanced Certificate in Management Studies, NQF Level 6.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Financial Services, NQF Level 7.
  • Advanced Diploma: Accounting Sciences, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting, NQF Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Banking, NQF Level 7.

    Diagonal Articulation
  • Occupational Certificate: Business Banking Practitioner, NQF Level 6.
  • Occupational Certificate: Financial Markets Practitioner, NQF Level 7. 
    		•

    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.
     
    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.