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SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Diploma in Local Government Management 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
99717  Diploma in Local Government Management 
ORIGINATOR
Richfield Graduate Institute Of Technology (Pty) Ltd. (previously known as PC Training And Business College (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
Diploma (Min 360)  Field 03 - Business, Commerce and Management Studies  Public Administration 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  360  Not Applicable  NQF Level 06  Regular-Provider-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Registered-data under construction  EXCO 0324/24  2024-07-01  2027-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2028-06-30   2033-06-30  

Registered-data under construction

The qualification content is currently being updated for the qualifications with the status “Registered-data under construction” or showing “DETAILS UNDER CONSTRUCTION” to ensure compliance with SAQA’S Policy and Criteria for the registration of qualifications and part-qualifications on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) (As amended, 2022). These qualifications are re-registered until 30 June 2027 and can legitimately be offered by the institutions to which they are registered.

 

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.  

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
This qualification will provide learners with a broad background knowledge of local government management to be able to, not only secure appropriate employment opportunities in the field of local government management and the public sector, but also to be able to engage in self-employment opportunities as consultants and entrepreneurs.

This qualification has been designed to meet relevant workplace needs in the fields of Local Government Management, Public Management, Public Sector Economics, Local Government Financial Management, Municipal Law, Urban Planning, Housing, Politics, Ethics and Professionalism.

By the same token, the Diploma in Local Government Management will enable learners to master the essential skills required to:
  • Understand the legislative framework and mandate of local government and various pieces of legislation.
  • Identify the local government obligation in respect of national imperatives and other government priority programmes.
  • Understand the principles of Integrated Development Planning as well as Local Economic Development (LED).
  • Understand the local government constitutional mandate in respect of consultation and public participation.
  • Identify, analyse, formulate and serve the political, social, economic, technological and financial needs of the public and local government sectors.
  • Work effectively in groups, organisations and communities and contribute to the delivery of efficient and effective services to local communities.
  • Communicate effectively especially in written presentations.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between government, the public sector and communities and acknowledge that society is a set of related systems.
  • Understand that problem solving does not exist in isolation and that responsibility and accountability form part of problem solving.
  • Incorporate general business principles to the public sector in its cultural context and in real life work experiences.
  • Assess and understand human knowledge and behaviour in the dynamic technological age.
  • Analyse financial information critically to ensure the desired outcomes are met.

    Rationale:
    The Department of Public Service and Administration has issued a Directive on compulsory capacity development and minimum entry requirements for the Senior Management Sector (SMS) in which it outlines the minimum competencies required by managers in all sections of the public service including managers in local and regional government, The directive also lists the minimum NQF level of qualifications required by persons in the SMS. While this qualification is not targeted for members of the SMS of the public service it develops those competencies for officials at a level just below the SMS. Holders of this Diploma will be ready for a level 7 qualification that is needed as an entry to the SMS. At the same time it also means that those competencies needed for the public service for effective service delivery will be present in lower level officials. The competencies are:
  • People Management.
  • Project management.
  • Financial Management.
  • Knowledge Management.
  • Service Delivery Innovation Problem Solving.
  • Client Orientation.
  • Communication.

    The purpose of the qualification is to develop lower level officials in regional government who have the competencies required for effective service delivery and for entry into learning that is required for entry into the SMS. These officials will be able to:
  • Promote developmental local government.
  • Contribute to the stated intention of National Government of building capacity in local authorities.
  • Develop human resource in their areas of work for social and economic development.
  • Communication effectively with the community, individuals and their co-workers.
  • Use analytical skills to solve work related problems.

    Local government is the sphere of government that is closest to communities where citizens interface with government services. In view of its mandate, local government is expected to be equipped and resourced with adequate infrastructure and skills to respond to the service needs of the people. Furthermore, the local government sector has a constitutional mandate to facilitate provision of democratic and accountable governance for local communities. In that regard, municipalities are expected to become competent facilitators of development, to strengthen partnerships and networks with local communities, the private and non-governmental sector, to achieve their developmental goals and promote local democracy. Therefore, this requires a new cadre of local government practitioners who understand the mandate of local government.

    Building the capacity of public servants in South Africa at all levels of government will ensure efficient service delivery to achieve the government's programme of action to achieve its strategic priorities. Thus the Diploma in Local Government Management has been developed to build capacity in the local government sector. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    If RPL is to be used to grant access, learners will be required to provide a portfolio of evidence to show competence at Level 4. The portfolio of evidence must contain evidence of relevant learning, in a prescribed format, to be assessed for formal recognition. The assessor and learner will decide jointly on the most appropriate assessment procedures, subject to the assessment rules of the relevant Quality Council. The portfolios will also be assessed in accordance with the Institutions RPL policy.

    This qualification may be achieved in part or in whole through the Recognition of Prior Learning. The institutions RPL Policy will be applied for admission through RPL.

    The ultimate responsibility for granting Recognition of Prior Learning is vested with the Senior Programme Director of Business Administration.

    Entry Requirements:
    The minimum requirement is:
  • Senior Certificate (SC) without endorsement.
    Or
  • National Senior Certificate (NSC) granting access to Diploma studies.
    Or
  • National Certificate Vocational [NC(V)] at Level 4 granting access to Diploma studies. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    The qualification comprises compulsory modules at Levels 5, 6 and 7 totalling 380 Credits.

    Modules at Level 5, 120 Credits:
  • Local Government Management l, 15 Credits.
  • Integrated Development Planning, 15 Credits.
  • Information Systems, 15 Credits.
  • Batho Pele Principles, 15 Credits.
  • Local Government Management ll, 15 Credits.
  • Public Management, 15 Credits.
  • Municipal Finance Management, 15 Credits.
  • Local Government Legislative Framework, 15 Credits.

    Modules at Level 6, 205 Credits:
  • Local Government Management lll, 15 Credits.
  • Municipal Performance Management, 15 Credits.
  • Local Government Human Resource Management, 15 Credits.
  • Local Government Policy Process, 15 Credits.
  • Local Government Service Delivery Mandates, 15 Credits.
  • Local Government Management IV, 15 Credits.
  • Local Government Procurement, 15 Credits.
  • Local Government Human Resource Management, 15 Credits.
  • Local Economic Development, 15 Credits.
  • Local Government Labour Relations, 15 Credits.
  • Community-Based Planning, 15 Credits.
  • Local Government Project Management, 15 Credits.
  • Disaster Management, 15 Credits.
  • Local Government Ethics and Professionalism, 10 Credits.

    Modules at Level 7, 60 Credits:
  • Local Government Management V, 15 Credits.
  • Work Integrated Learning, 15 Credits.
  • Research Project, 15 Credits.
  • Local Government Management V, 15 Credits. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Understand and discuss the functions of managers in local government, for effective execution of the functions of local government and indicate how effective management skills impact the management of limited and scarce resources.
    2. Demonstrate an understanding of the application of management principles in a local government context.
    3. Manage resources and processes in local authorities effectively and efficiently by understanding and applying selected local government management methods.
    4. Analyse, communicate and interpret local government legislation, politics, processes and procedures pertaining to the operation of local government.
    5. Carry out financial management functions at local government level through preparing income and expenditure statements and budgets according to the Municipal Public Finance Management Act (MPFMA) Guidelines.
    6. Integrate and apply knowledge already gained in human resources management theory at a strategic level. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • Integrate the various management functions into a cohesive strategy for effective and efficient service delivery.
  • Contextualise and understand the specialist skills required of local government managers in managing resources for service delivery.
  • Analyse and contextualise an overview of the various methods and techniques that can be utilised to positively impact the implementation of local government policies and procedures.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • Apply normative principles to ensure sound ethical and professional practices in local government.
  • Distinguish between integrated development planning and strategic services planning.
  • Identify and implement the immediate economic development initiatives of the community in terms of the social responsibility of local government.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Comprehend the interdependency of the various resources as a prerequisite for effective and effective local government management.
  • Apply quantitative techniques to enhance decision-making, problem solving and forecasting in the local government domain.
  • Direct and co-ordinate local government projects on time, within costs and to specification.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Explore, analyse, formulate and implement local government policy within the context of the machinery of local government.
  • Interpret and apply local government legislation and communicate effectively with local communities and other stakeholders.
  • Analyse, understand and disseminate information pertaining to the processes and procedures pertaining to the operation of local government to local communities.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Understand the budgeting and budgetary procedures relevant to local government.
  • Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the principles of accountability, responsibility, fairness and reasonableness in all financial transactions pertaining to local government.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the role of financial management in local government.
  • Prepare income and expenditure statements and draw up a local government budget.
  • Monitor a local government's expenditure against its approved budget.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 6:
  • Apply, discuss, compare and relate the strategic role of the human resources function as an integral, essential organisational input and contributor to overall effectiveness and efficiency.
  • Display a clear understanding of the interface between the employee and the municipality.
  • Explain the inter-dependence of the local social development, labour relations functions and human resources management.

    Integrated Assessment:
    The competencies will be assessed using a combination of formal and informal learning, self-learning and work-based application. The practical, applied, foundational and reflective competencies demonstrated for the group of assessment criteria in this qualification must prove that the whole competence is more than the sum of the parts of the competencies.

    The Institution will conduct diagnostic and formative assessment. Formative and other practical assessments will also take place in the work place, if applicable. The learner will also be able to assess him or herself and determine readiness for a summative assessment.

    During integrated assessments the assessor will make use of formative and summative assessment methods and will assess combinations of practical, applied, foundational and reflective competencies. The following assessment methods will be used:
  • Time-constrained written examinations.
  • Course work Evaluations.
  • Continuous Evaluations.
  • Practical Evaluations.

    Integrated assessment at this level of qualification provides an opportunity for learners to show that they are able to integrate concepts, ideas and actions across modules to achieve competence that is grounded and coherent in relation to the purpose of the qualification. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    This qualification has been compared to the core knowledge and specialised knowledge elements found in the following International qualifications:

    The Institute of Public Administration, Ireland Diploma in Local Government Studies provides an in-depth and analytical treatment of the main local authority services. It is intended to be an important step in the career development path of local authority staff and to provide material of relevance to enhance the competence of individuals in their career path.
    It is designed for staff of all disciplines in Local Government. This Diploma covers the following topics:
  • Local Government Reform.
  • Local Government Finance.
  • Community Development/Governance.
  • Human Resources.
  • The Housing Function.
  • The Roads Function/Water Services.
  • Planning and Development.
  • Environment.

    The University of Victoria, School of Public Administration offers a Diploma in Local Government Management. The Diploma consists of 11 courses, including compulsory courses and 3 elective courses.
    Compulsory courses:
  • Public Sector Economics.
  • Managing in Public and Non-Profit Sector Organisations.
  • Written Communications in the Public and Non-Profit Sectors.
  • Local Government in British Columbia.
  • Urban and Regional Economics.
  • Local Government Finance).
  • Local Government Law.
  • Local Government Policy International Community Development Through Activism and Community Building.
  • Public Sector Research and Analysis.
  • Managing Service Delivery.
  • Leading and Managing in the Non-profit Sector.
  • Public Sector Project Management.
  • Financial Management.
  • Ethical Public Management.
  • Public Sector Human Resource Management.
  • Compensation and Human Relations.
  • Program Evaluation and Performance Measurement.
  • Strategic Planning and Implementation.
  • Introduction to Public Administration.
  • The Public Policy Process.
  • Local Government Land Use Planning.
  • Intergovernmental Relations in Canada.
  • Contemporary Topics in Administration (as available).
  • European Union Urban Region Policies.
  • European Border Region Policies.
  • Directed Studies.

    Conclusion:
    This qualification has been developed for the South African context of Local Government Management but is similar to the above two cited qualifications, which have been chosen for the comparability study as local government and public administration is well managed in the UK, Ireland and Canada. The content, purpose and learner cohort are similar but the duration of the two international diplomas is shorter. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification offers only the following specific vertical articulation opportunity with a qualification offered by the Richfield Graduate Institute of Technology:
    Vertical Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Public Management, Level 7 (ID 94580).

    However, the qualification offers horizontal systemic articulation with the following qualifications offered by other institutions, provided the learner meets the minimum entry requirements:

    Horizontal Articulation:
  • Diploma in Local Government Law and Administration, Level 6.
  • Diploma in Local Government Finance, Level 6.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • Bachelor of Public Administration, Level 7.
  • Bachelor of Public Management, 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. Richfield Graduate Institute of Technology 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.