A group of employed and unemployed South Africans has graduated from a training programme towards a National Certificate in Wealth Management, with the assistance of the Insurance Sector Skills Fund.
The graduation was hosted by the Ikhwezelihle Training Institute, where the ISSF-funded learners were acknowledged for completing the course. It was made possible by the INSETA, SASRIA, SEACOM and other supporting partners.
The programme provides an example of how training organisations, sector bodies, and industry stakeholders can team up to develop skills in line with the needs of the financial and insurance environment.
Employed and unemployed learners share among graduates
Among the graduates were employed and unemployed learners.
This is an important dynamic, as skills development can address the needs of various segments of the job market. While an unemployed learner could use the qualification as a step towards finding employment in insurance, the employed learner might use the course to update knowledge or gain experience.
Having completed a training programme, however, does not guarantee that a learner will receive job offers or promotions. The availability and requirements of vacancies remain a factor for all job seekers.
Learners trained in wealth management
The learners undertook the National Certificate in Wealth Management, which provided them with exposure to knowledge and competencies applicable to the wealth management environment and more widely in the financial services industry.
For South Africans interested in insurance and financial services, such qualifications can be part of a career development plan. There is a diverse range of job opportunities within the industry, however, and prospective learners should conduct research to clarify the requirements of the career path that they wish to pursue.
Partnerships support skills development
The graduation reflects the value of partnerships in supporting skills development.
The training programme counted on the support of INSETA, SASRIA, SEACOM and other organisations, which partnered with the Ikhwezelihle Training Institute and ISSF.
Industry partnerships can play an important role in addressing skills shortages, as they equip learners with qualifications and work experience while addressing the needs of the sector.
For insurance and related industries, such collaboration can provide much-needed impetus in the development of a future-ready skills base.
Why this is important for South African job seekers
For unemployed South Africans seeking to build a career in insurance, skills development and qualifications can increase the likelihood of being selected for an interview or appointment.
It is important, however, for job seekers to recognise that the title of a qualification is not the only consideration. Prospective learners should establish the following prior to applying for a training programme:
Whether the qualification is recognised.
What occupations or career areas the programme supports.
What the entry requirements are.
Whether funding is available.
Whether there is workplace exposure during the course.
What the options are for further study after completing the programme.
This information can help learners to determine whether a given training programme will support their long-term career goals.
No new ISSF application details were announced
The information announced in relation to the graduation does not specify a new application period.
The supplied information also does not include any confirmed details about a stipend, closing date, age requirement, minimum education requirement or number of places for a new intake.
Applicants should therefore not regard this announcement as an invitation to apply. Those who are interested in the ISSF-support training programmes should confirm the application opening date and requirements directly with the training institution or sector organisation of interest, ahead of submitting personal information.
Milestone for the ISSF graduates
The graduation is a significant achievement for the learners who have completed the training programme, and a useful illustration of the value of partnerships between training organisations, sector bodies and industry stakeholders. As South Africa continues to invest in the development of its skills base, similar programmes will be needed in order to support the requirements of the insurance industry and related fields.
Source
Source: Ikhwezelihle Training Institute / information supplied regarding the ISSF-funded graduation. The report reflects the information made available in relation to the graduates, qualification and supporting bodies.
Editorial policy
This article was independently written for South African readers. The information supplied was used to confirm reported facts, while additional context has been added in order to provide a fuller picture of the training programme’s relevance to the job market. No unconfirmed employment claims, stipends, requirements, application dates or salary information has been added to this report.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for general information purposes only, and is not an official application notice from the ISSF. It does not guarantee employment, funding or admission to a training programme. Requirements and availability may change, and prospective applicants should confirm details directly with the training organisation or sector body of interest.
Applicant awareness
South Africans are encouraged to remain wary of job advertisements, bursary applications and employment opportunities that request personal information without sufficient disclosure of requirements or terms. Do not pay individuals who claim to guarantee admission or employment, and verify applications through official channels before providing banking details, identification documents or other personal information.
