Submitting your Workplace Skills Plan (WSP) is not merely about ticking a compliance box. It represents a valuable opportunity to access SETA funding, enhance your B-BBEE scorecard, and empower your workforce through relevant skills development. However, small mistakes can result in lost points, missed grants, and unnecessary setbacks.

Below are seven common WSP mistakes—and how to confidently avoid them.

Submitting Late

Each SETA has a strict deadline, usually 30 April, for WSP and Annual Training Report (ATR) submissions. Missing it means losing your mandatory grant and possibly affecting your discretionary grant eligibility. Many businesses leave submission to the last minute and scramble or miss the cut-off altogether.

How to avoid it: Start preparing your WSP at least 8 weeks before the due date. Set internal deadlines and assign a project lead to manage the process. Early planning is the key to a successful submission.

Incomplete or Inaccurate Data

A submission with missing employee information, incorrect demographic details, or misaligned job titles can be rejected or scored poorly. Inconsistent data leads to a loss of credibility and unnecessary follow-ups with the SETA.

How to avoid it: Update your HR database regularly. Make sure all staff information—ID numbers, job roles, racial and gender classifications—matches your payroll system and is accurate for the reporting period.

Not Appointing a Skilled SDF

A Skills Development Facilitator (SDF) is responsible for coordinating your WSP and ATR submissions. Without a competent SDF, you risk misunderstanding SETA expectations, overlooking important requirements, or failing to complete the process correctly.

How to avoid it: Appoint a trained and SETA-registered SDF. Whether internal or external, they should be involved in your organisation’s skills development strategy throughout the year—not just at submission time.

Overlooking PIVOTAL Programmes

SETA funding prioritises PIVOTAL (Professional, Vocational, Technical and Academic Learning) programmes. Many businesses focus only on compliance or short courses, which limits their access to discretionary grants.

How to avoid it: Include programmes like learnerships, internships, apprenticeships, and accredited qualifications in your WSP. These reflect deeper investment in skills development and align better with SETA and national priorities.

Misaligned Training Plans

If your training plan doesn’t reflect your organisation’s actual operational needs, SETAs may question its relevance. Submitting a generic plan just to meet requirements won’t help you earn points or improve your workforce.

How to avoid it: Connect every training initiative to a business goal, such as improved productivity, digital transformation, or employee retention. Carry out a skills audit to identify gaps and ensure the plan is focused.

Poor Documentation and Record-Keeping

Even the best WSP won’t stand up to a SETA audit without supporting evidence. Invoices, attendance registers, and proof of training outcomes are required for both compliance and grant approval.

How to avoid it: Create a digital filing system where all training records are stored, labelled, and regularly updated. Assign someone to oversee training documentation and ensure quality control.

No Follow-Up After Submission

Many companies submit their WSP and move on—until the following year. This passive approach leads to missed feedback, grant opportunities, or updates in SETA criteria.

How to avoid it: Engage with your SETA after submission. Confirm that the WSP and ATR were received, follow up on discretionary grant windows, and ensure your training stays aligned with your plan throughout the year.

Turn Compliance Into a Growth Strategy

funding and supports long-term workforce development. With careful planning, accurate data, and the right support, your WSP becomes a powerful tool for transformation.

At iFundi, we help businesses turn skills development into a strategic advantage. Our team supports you through every step from audits to submission and ensuring you avoid common pitfalls and maximise the return on your training investment.