The MICT SETA (Media, Information, and Communication Technologies Sector Education and Training Authority) plays a pivotal role in the development of South Africa’s workforce in the fields of media, information technology (IT), and communication technologies. MICT SETA is responsible for overseeing training and development, promoting skills, and creating pathways for career advancement in these sectors.
The MICT SETA works closely with businesses, educational institutions, and other stakeholders to promote growth in the industry.
1. What is MICT SETA?
MICT SETA is one of the 21 Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) in South Africa, established to provide strategic direction and manage skills development in the following sectors:
- Media
- Information Technology
- Telecommunications
Their key mandate is to improve the skills base in the country by offering funding for training, supporting learnerships, providing bursaries, and ensuring that the workforce is adequately prepared for industry demands.
2. Key Objectives of MICT SETA
The primary objectives are:
- Skills Development: Focus on developing skills that are aligned with the needs of the media, information technology, and communications industries.
- Employment Opportunities: Enhance employability of youth and other disadvantaged groups through training programs.
- Funding for Training: Facilitate financial support for training programs to increase access to opportunities for individuals and businesses.
- Partnerships with Stakeholders: Build partnerships with key stakeholders like educational institutions, employers, and professional bodies to ensure quality training.
3. MICT SETA Funding and Financial Support
It offers various financial assistance options for both individuals and organizations, including:
- Skills Development Levy (SDL): Companies in the media, ICT, and telecommunications sectors contribute to the skills development levy, which is used to fund various training and development programs.
- Bursaries and Learnerships: MICT SETA provides funding for bursaries, learnerships, and internships to help individuals gain work experience while furthering their education.
- Discretionary Grants: These are provided to companies, employers, and other relevant stakeholders to fund skills development initiatives.
4. Qualifications and Learnerships
It is responsible for the development of qualifications that align with industry standards and demands. These qualifications are offered at various levels:
- National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 1-10: MICT SETA oversees the design and implementation of accredited qualifications and programs from entry-level to higher levels of learning.
- Learnerships: These are structured learning programs that combine theoretical and practical training. Learnerships offer both a qualification and work experience, making individuals more employable.
Some of the fields covered by MICT SETA’s qualifications include:
- IT Systems Development
- Cybersecurity
- Media Studies
- Telecommunications Engineering
- Broadcasting
- Digital Marketing
5. MICT SETA Applications and Registration Process
For individuals interested in accessing funding opportunities, such as learnerships or bursaries, they should follow these steps:
- Create an account on the MICT SETA website.
- Submit an application for the program of interest, including any supporting documents such as academic records, CV, etc.
- Wait for selection: After submission, applicants will be informed whether they have been accepted for the program or not.
For employers who want to apply for skills development grants or funding for employee training:
- Register with MICT SETA: Employers must ensure that they are registered with MICT SETA and are paying the skills development levy (SDL).
- Submit application for funding: Employers can submit applications for discretionary grants, learnership funding, or training interventions.
- Provide evidence of training needs: Employers may be required to provide evidence of the specific skills development needs of their workforce.
6. MICT SETA Learnerships and Internships
It offers both learnerships and internships to assist young people in gaining practical experience. These programs typically last between 12-24 months and provide both classroom-based learning and on-the-job training.
Learnerships: Provide an NQF-accredited qualification upon completion.
Internships: Offer short-term work experience opportunities to enhance a person’s skills and employability.
The application process for these programs involves submitting an online application on the MICT SETA portal, with specific guidelines provided for each program.
7. Training Providers and Accredited Institutions
MICT SETA works with a variety of accredited training providers and institutions. These organizations offer:
- Professional training
- Short courses
- Formal qualification programs
It ensures that all providers are accredited with the relevant regulatory bodies, such as the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA), to ensure high standards of learning and qualifications.
8. The MICT SETA Quality Assurance System
It has a robust quality assurance framework to monitor and evaluate training programs. The aim is to ensure that all training aligns with industry needs, complies with national standards, and enhances the quality of education. This includes:
- Ensuring accredited qualifications and training are implemented.
- Performing regular audits on training providers.
- Certifying programs and institutions to ensure they meet required standards.
9. How to Access MICT SETA Services
To access it’s services or apply for funding, applicants and employers can visit the official website: www.mict.org.za. There, they will find:
- Guidelines for funding applications
- Opportunities for training and development
- News and updates related to the media, ICT, and telecommunications sectors
- Links to online portals for registration and applications
10. Contacting MICT SETA
For more detailed inquiries or to get assistance with the application process, the following contact details are available:
- Telephone: +27 (0) 11 207 2630
- Email: info@mict.org.za
- Physical Address: MICT SETA Head Office, 34 Jorissen Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg, 2000, South Africa.
The MICT SETA plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between education and employment within the media, information technology, and communications sectors. Whether you are an employer looking for training solutions or an individual seeking career advancement opportunities, MICT SETA offers a range of funding, support, and development programs.
Ensure that you utilize the resources on their website and engage with the various opportunities available to enhance your skills and contribute to South Africa’s workforce development.