Skills development is one of the most valuable pillars of the B-BBEE scorecard—but not all training qualifies for points. To maximise your score and access benefits like discretionary SETA grants, it’s crucial to understand what counts as a recognised qualification.

Let’s break it down simply, so you can plan your training spend more strategically and make a real impact.

What Is a Recognised Qualification?

A recognised qualification is a formal programme that is:

• • Accredited by a recognised authority (such as the QCTO, SETA, or a registered Higher Education institution)
  • Registered on the NQF (National Qualifications Framework)
  • Aligned with national skills development priorities

These qualifications carry credits and are quality assured by a professional body. They often lead to a formal certificate, diploma, or occupational qualification.

Types of Recognised Qualifications That Count for B-BBEE

Here are the most common training interventions that qualify for B-BBEE points under the Skills Development element:

1. Learnerships

These structured programmes combine theoretical learning with practical work experience. Learnerships must be registered with a SETA and result in an NQF-aligned qualification. They are highly valued on the B-BBEE scorecard, especially for unemployed learners.

2. Apprenticeships

Used mainly in technical and trade occupations, apprenticeships are practical training programmes that also lead to formal qualifications. Like learnerships, they must be accredited and registered.

3. Internships (if structured and accredited)

Some internships qualify, provided they include an NQF-aligned training component. Informal or non-accredited internships will not contribute to B-BBEE points.

4. Skills Programmes

Shorter than full qualifications, these are specific unit standards or modules that are part of a registered qualification. They must be accredited and lead to recognised credits on the NQF.

5. Full Qualifications (Certificates, Diplomas, Degrees)

Qualifications from public universities, universities of technology, and accredited private providers are valid, so long as they are registered with SAQA and meet NQF requirements.

What Doesn’t Count?

Many businesses lose points by investing in training that doesn’t qualify. These include:

• • Unaccredited short courses
  • In-house or informal training with no external validation
  • Workshops or conferences without unit standards or NQF credits
  • Training not aligned to a registered occupational qualification

While these may still add value to your workforce, they don’t earn you B-BBEE points unless they are formally recognised.

Additional B-BBEE Requirements to Keep in Mind

• • You must provide proof of accreditation and training outcomes.
  • Training should be aligned with the Economic Active Population (EAP) targets to score fully on demographic representivity.
  • Spend should fall within the required percentage of your leviable payroll—usually 3% to 6%.
  • The targeted beneficiaries matter: training for black South African employees, especially youth, women, and people with disabilities, earns the highest recognition.

Partner With the Right Training Provider

Choosing the right provider makes all the difference. At iFundi, we offer QCTO-accredited and SETA-recognised programmes that qualify for B-BBEE scorecard points. Our courses range from NQF Level 3 to Level 5, covering fields such as Business Administration, Project Management, and Software Development.

We also help with Skills Development Facilitation, ensuring your training spend is not only compliant but impactful.

Empower, Comply, and Grow

Recognised qualifications are more than a B-BBEE compliance tool—they’re a path to economic transformation and organisational growth. When you invest in quality training that counts, you’re building both your scorecard and your people.