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 Supply Chain Management 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
93708  Higher Certificate in Supply Chain Management 
ORIGINATOR
MANCOSA Pty (Ltd) 
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  Generic Management 
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 0324/24  2024-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2031-06-30  

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 
The purpose of the Higher Certificate in Supply Chain Management qualification is to equip learners with the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities to perform various Supply Chain Management functions. The qualification is designed for individuals aiming to enter or advance in the field of supply chain and logistics, including junior practitioners, recent school leavers, and professionals seeking foundational knowledge. Learners complete this qualification to gain practical skills and industry-relevant knowledge that address the complexities of modern supply chains. Graduates will demonstrate proficiency as competent professionals who possess the ability to make valuable contributions to the achievement of organisational objectives within a dynamic and constantly changing global supply chain environment. After completing the qualification, learners enhance their employability, improve their career prospects as Supply Chain Coordinators, Logistics Coordinators, Procurement Assistants, and Inventory Controllers, and develop the ability to manage supply chain operations efficiently, making them valuable assets with supply chain knowledge to organisations in various industries. This qualification offers a combination of theory and practice in supply chain management, and aims to develop an integrated conceptual understanding, synthesis, and application of specific issues in supply chain management.

The graduate attributes of critical thinking abilities, teamwork dynamics, ethical principles, technological literacy, innovation and creativity and adaptability to change are embedded in the qualification. Upon completion of the qualification, graduates will be able to:
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the supply chain management environment within an organisation
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the influence of performance and risk within a supply chain management environment
  • Contribute to the development of a supply chain strategy for an organisation.
  • Contribute to operational plans for supply chain management
  • Implement a supply chain strategy

    Rationale:
    The qualification has been thoughtfully designed to equip junior supply chain practitioners with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the evolving supply chain landscape. In today's interconnected global economy, the success of any organisation depends heavily on the efficient and effective management of its supply chain operations. The need for a qualification in supply chain and operations management arises from the increasing complexity of supply chains driven by factors such as globalisation, outsourcing, and technological advancements. Supply Chain Management is a multifaceted field that requires seamless coordination to keep pace with emerging trends. Supply Chain Management encompasses the planning, execution, and control of numerous organisational operations, ultimately reducing operating costs and enhancing customer satisfaction. These critical skills are in high demand in the workforce, making the institution's offering of the qualification highly relevant to the goals of knowledge creation and skills development.

    The qualification aims to meet the needs of the sector, thereby benefiting the economy. There is a growing demand for qualified supply chain professionals who have a strong foundation in both operations and Supply Chain Management, as organisations strive to streamline their supply chain processes and achieve competitive advantages. The qualification aims to fulfil this demand by providing graduates with the necessary expertise for the supply chain industry, resulting in a benefit to society.

    The qualification offers learners the opportunity to further their studies in their chosen field while acquiring essential skills at a tertiary level. This qualification is ideal for both school leavers and professionals already working in supply chain management who seek to enhance their expertise through a formal qualification. Additionally, the qualification aims to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills required to fulfil their management role within the supply chain.
    In the fields below and those who want to find employment as listed below:
  • Inventory Controller
  • Warehouse Supervisor
  • Distribution Planner
  • Operations Assistant
  • Customer Service Representative (Logistics)
  • Freight Forwarding Clerk
  • Import/Export Coordinator

    Upon completion of the qualification, learners can progress from a Higher Certificate qualification to Degree, Honours, Master's and finally Doctorate level in a cognate field. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    The institution recognises the important role that the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) plays in ensuring equitable access and participation in Higher Education. In this process, non-formal and/or informal learning is measured, evaluated, and checked for equivalence or parity with the formal qualification entry requirements. The RPL assessment process will focus on ways of evaluating a person's knowledge and skills acquired through lifelong learning experiences (formal, non-formal and informal) against a set of pre-determined criteria.

    RPL Process:
    Learners are required to submit an RPL application, and the RPL committee shall meet and provide outcomes regarding all RPL applications that are presented before the committee for decisions and recommendations regarding entry into the qualifications for which prospective RPL candidates have applied. The decisions are communicated by the committee to the relevant stakeholders in the enrolment department. The RPL process focuses on establishing whether the student has acquired competence in the following areas:
  • Basic theoretical knowledge
  • Practical competence
  • Reflective competence
  • Applied competence

    The RPL applicant must:
  • Be at least 23 years of age for undergraduate qualifications and at least 30 years of age for postgraduate qualifications
    Applicants must demonstrate relevant professional work experience as follows:
  • Undergraduate Qualifications: A minimum of 3 years of related work experience.
  • Postgraduate Diplomas: A minimum of 4 years of related work experience.
  • Honours Qualifications: A minimum of 5 years of related work experience.
  • Master's Qualifications: A minimum of 8 years of relevant work experience.

    Submit a detailed Portfolio of Evidence with documents required to substantiate RPL application
  • Provide a comprehensive CV with detailed working experience
  • Submit certified copies of qualification certificates and transcripts
  • Provide a signed personal letter of motivation
  • Submit all relevant and appropriate certificates for short courses or training (formally, informally, or non-formal) completed to support the motivation to be accepted for the qualification through RPL and as evidence of continuous assessment and learning
    Or
    Produce a letter from the Human Resources (HR) Department for relevant and appropriate short courses or training (formally, informally, or non-formal) completed to support the motivation to be accepted for the qualification through RPL and as evidence of continuous assessment and learning for those who are not in possession of certificates
    For all Master's qualifications- Submit a signed Recommendation letter written by a reputable person to be provided as an endorsement of the Applicants qualities, capabilities, performance and suitability for the qualification
    Sign a Declaration to confirm English Language and IT proficiency

    NB: If the applicant's highest accredited qualification has been completed within 5 years to date of the application period, the applicant has to articulate onto the appropriate qualification

    RPL for access:
    Assesses whether a candidate's prior experience and learning meet the entry requirements for a qualification, enabling them to be accepted into the qualification. In contrast, RPL for credits and/or exemptions evaluates if this prior learning can be counted towards specific modules within the qualification, potentially shortening the duration or reducing the coursework required. Essentially, RPL for admission determines eligibility for entry, while RPL for credits and exemptions grants academic credit or module exemptions based on previous learning.
    All RPL applications are subject to evaluation by the RPL committee. No more than 10% of a cohort will be admitted into the programme
    e based on RPL. It is assumed that the learning derived from work or life experience will be a major element in the profiles of non-standard entrants primarily by means of a portfolio of evidence. Where appropriate, interviews will also be conducted to assess applicants for selection purposes

    Entry Requirements:
  • National Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4, granting access to Higher Certificate studies.
    Or
  • National Certificate Vocational, NQF Level 4, granting access to Higher Certificate studies.
    Or
  • Senior Certificate, NQF Level 4. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification comprises compulsory modules at NQF Level 5 totalling 120 Credits

    Compulsory Modules, Level 5, 120 Credits.
  • Management Principles, 20 credits.
  • Introduction to Supply Chain Management, 20 credits.
  • Basic Economics and Finance, 20 credits.
  • Logistics and Material Handling, 20 credits.
  • Introduction to Operations Management, 20 credits.
  • Introduction to Purchasing Management, 20 credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Explain of the supply chain management environment within an organisation
    2. Explain the influence of performance and risk within a supply chain management environment.
    4. Contribute to operational plans for supply chain management.
    5. Contribute to the development of a supply chain strategy for an organisation.
    6. Implement a supply chain strategy. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Examine Supply chain management concepts to understand the supply chain management environment within an organisation
  • Diatribe macro, market and microenvironment to understand the management environment and its application within the supply chain context
  • Examine production and supply chain management key aspects to explore its systems in a business

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Describe performance and risk within a supply chain management environment to understand the influence of performance and risk within a supply chain management environment
  • Analyse risk management to describe the key challenges facing purchasing management
  • Discuss productivity together with scenario-based calculations in order to understand mathematical analysis in determining productivity within organisations

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Explore operational plans for supply chain management to understand how supply chain strategy t contribution to operational plans
  • Analyse operational strategies to evaluate correct application of strategy
  • Describe overall strategic objectives to explain how operations management decisions can influence the overall strategic objectives of an organisation

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Develop supply chain strategies within a business context to examine the overall understanding of supply chain
  • Identify operational plans for supply chain management in order to apply supply chain strategy to enable students to contribute to operational plans
  • Discuss aggregate scheduling in order to understand overall operational scheduling

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Supply chain strategy planning, implementation and the importance thereof is investigated to implement a supply chain strategy within an organisation
  • Differentiate planning, Leading, Organising and controlling to understand the management process and its application.
  • Discuss Economic Order Quantity as a technique to analyse inventory management within the supply chain

    Integrated Assessment:
    Integrated assessment requires careful consideration in implementing formative and summative assessment methods, which offer an inclusive and holistic view of learners' learning. Assessments are aligned with the pre-defined learning outcomes per module, culminating with the qualification exit level outcomes. Formative and summative assessments are diverse in nature, and these encompass knowledge check questions, case studies, and scenario-based questions.

    Formative assessments allow for regular feedback to Learners, highlighting areas of success and improvement. Summative assessments evaluate Learners' learning after their learning journey. Imperative to integrated assessments is the provisioning of feedback to not only Learners but also internally, whereby the results of assessments play a critical role in informing the development of future assessments, assessment practices and the continuous improvement of the qualification.

    Assessment Type, Method, and Description
    The assessment method for each module is :
    Formative Assessments: these are online assessments. These assessments are in the form of multiple choice, true/false or a combination of both.
    Summative Assessment: This assessment is in the form of a project and requires calculations and/or application to relevant theory.
    Formative Assessment: counts 40% and Summative Assessment 60% towards the final mark
    To pass a module a sub-minimum of 50% is required in each form of assessment and a final combined mark of 50% is required. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    Country: United Kingdom
    Name of Institution: Cambridge Management and Leadership School
    Name of Qualification: Certificate in Logistics and Supply Chain

    Purpose of Qualification: Supply chains and logistics involve operational management, logistics, procurement, and project management to deliver all products and services that one consumes in every day of their lives. Without supply chains, companies cannot meet their expected target market and to meet their customers' demand. The Certificate in Logistics and Supply Chain qualification is designed to introduce learners to the complex concepts of logistics, operational management, procurement, and supply chain management. In the modern global marketplace, companies need to be efficient in supplying and delivering the final products.

    Learning Outcomes:
  • Understand management tools and techniques of the flow of materials and services from suppliers to their customers
  • Identify the business model for any sized company to take advantage of changes in the supply chains and business positioning
  • Understand Strategic Approaches, Risks assessment, Sustainability and Decision-making process in the supply chain, logistics and procurement at the global level
  • Understand International trade logistics, Inventory, Procurement and Performance Improvement in Logistics and Supply Chains

    Content:
  • Logistics
  • Operations Management
  • Procurement
  • Supply Chain

    Similarities:
  • Both qualifications share several key similarities in purpose, learning outcomes, and content, which are designed to equip learners with foundational knowledge in logistics, supply chain management, procurement, and operations management.
  • The qualifications emphasise the development of skills necessary to manage the flow of materials and services from suppliers to customers, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness in supply chain processes.
  • Both qualifications cover strategic approaches, risk assessment, and decision-making processes within the context of global supply chains. The focus on procurement and performance improvement is a shared priority, with both qualifications aiming to prepare graduates for operational roles in supply chain and logistics sectors.
  • The inclusion of content related to international trade logistics and sustainability underscores a global perspective in both offerings. Furthermore, the flexible online learning platforms of both qualifications cater to professionals seeking to upskill while balancing work commitments, supporting students' continuous professional development.
  • These shared characteristics reflect a commitment to producing skilled supply chain professionals who are equipped to navigate the complexities of modern global supply chain environments.

    Differences:
  • The Certificate in Logistics and Supply Chain qualification offered by United Kingdom Management and Leadership School and South Africa's Higher Certificate in Supply Chain Management qualification differs in entry requirements.
  • The Certificate in Logistics and Supply Chain qualification is open to all learners without any entry restrictions. The Higher Certificate in Supply Chain Management qualification offered in South Africa requires a National Senior Certificate (NSC) or an NQF Level 4 National Certificate (Vocational) (NCV) with an endorsement for entry into a Higher Certificate, Diploma or bachelor's study qualification or an equivalent.
  • The duration of the Certificate in Logistics and Supply Chain qualification offered by United Kingdom Management and Leadership School and South Africa's Higher Certificate in Supply Chain Management qualification varies.
  • The Certificate in Logistics and Supply Chain is a shorter qualification designed to offer quick, concise training, while South Africa's Higher Certificate in Supply Chain Management qualification spans a year, allowing for a more comprehensive exploration of supply chain principles and practices.

    Country: Namibia
    Name of Institution: The International University of Management (IUM)
    Name of Qualification: Certificate in Transport and Logistics Management (NQF Level 5)

    Purpose of Qualification: The purpose of the Certificate in Transport and Logistics Management (Level 5) qualification is to provide qualifying learners with applied competencies in the understanding and interpreting of transport and logistics management principles, in preparation for a career in the transport and logistics field and to provide a basis for further learning.

    Learning Outcomes:
  • Understand the core principles of transport and logistics management, including key processes and the role of logistics in supply chain efficiency.
  • Apply logistics strategies effectively to coordinate and manage the transportation of goods, ensuring optimal use of resources in various sectors.
  • Analyse transportation networks and systems to determine the most efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable methods of moving goods within local, regional, and global contexts
  • Evaluate the impact of logistics and transport decisions on the overall supply chain, including cost, time, and service delivery improvements.
  • Assess and manage the risks associated with transport and logistics management, such as regulatory compliance, transportation hazards, and cost fluctuations.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of logistics technology and software tools, and how they enhance operational efficiency in transport management and the broader supply chain environment.
  • Understand international trade and logistics principles, including customs, tariffs, and regulations that govern the movement of goods across borders.
  • Communicate effectively with various stakeholders involved in logistics and transport management, ensuring collaboration across departments and regions.
  • Apply ethical and legal standards within transport and logistics operations, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and responsible management of resources.
  • Develop problem-solving and decision-making skills, specifically related to transport logistics, to address challenges such as disruptions, cost optimisation, and service quality improvements.

    Content:
  • English Communication and Study Skills
  • Mathematics
  • Basic IT Skills
  • Introduction to Logistics and Supply Chain Management
  • Transport Economics
  • Introduction to Inventory and Warehouse Management
  • Business Ethics
  • Principles of Marketing
  • Basic Sciences
  • Transport and Distribution Management
  • Principles of Logistics Management
  • Introduction to Entrepreneurship

    Similarities:
  • Both qualifications, as both carry 120 credits and cover key areas such as Transport and Distribution Management and Introduction to Logistics and Supply Chain Management.
  • Both equip learners with the essential skills for careers in the supply chain and logistics sectors, while providing a solid foundation for further academic pursuits.
  • Both qualifications emphasise the importance of understanding core principles of logistics and supply chain management, with a focus on efficient transportation and distribution systems.
  • Both curricula incorporate essential foundational subjects such as Business Ethics, Principles of Marketing, and Introduction to Entrepreneurship, preparing learners for professional and entrepreneurial opportunities within the supply chain field.
  • Both qualifications provide practical skills in logistics technology and software tools, which enhance operational efficiency.

    Differences:
    Namibia Certificate in Transport and Logistics Management focuses specifically on the transport aspect of logistics, emphasising topics such as Transport Economics, Transport and Distribution Management, and Introduction to Inventory and Warehouse Management. In contrast, the South Africa Higher Certificate in Supply Chain Management qualification takes a broader approach, covering a wider scope of supply chain topics, including purchasing, materials management, and supply chain optimisation. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows possibilities for both vertical and horizontal articulation.
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Higher Certificate in Operations Management, NQF Level 5.
  • Higher Occupational Certificate: Logistics Practitioner, NQF Level 5.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Diploma in Logistics Management, NQF Level 6.
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Supply Chain Management, NQF Level 7,

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

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2015. 

    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. MANCOSA Pty (Ltd) 


    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.