QCTO Transition 2026: What Employers Need to Know

The South African training landscape is undergoing significant changes as the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) continues the transition from legacy qualifications to occupational qualifications.

With the final transition deadline approaching in June 2026, employers, training providers, and learners are encouraged to ensure that all training and skills development plans are aligned with current regulatory requirements.

What Is Changing?

The QCTO is replacing many of the older SETA-based qualifications with occupational qualifications designed to better meet workplace and industry needs. These qualifications place a stronger focus on practical workplace experience and competency-based assessment.

What Does This Mean for Employers?

Employers should:

Review current employee training plans.
Ensure training is conducted through accredited providers.
Verify qualification and certification requirements.
Plan skills development activities well in advance of transition deadlines.
Keep accurate training records for compliance and auditing purposes.

Benefits of the QCTO System

The QCTO framework aims to:

Improve workplace readiness.
Strengthen practical skills development.
Increase industry relevance of qualifications.
Enhance quality assurance within the training sector.
Create nationally recognised occupational qualifications.

SAMTRAC TRAINING

Our Popular Training & Certification Programs

We offer a wide range of industry-recognized training and certification programs across multiple sectors. Below are some of our most popular courses:

SAMTRAC (Safety, Health, Environment, and Quality Management)
Risk Assessment & Site Visits
Skilled Trade Training: Bricklaying, fencing, painting, plumbing, electrical, welding, roadworks, and general construction skills
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Load and Machinery Testing: Comprehensive testing for all equipment at very affordable rates

Our programs are designed to equip professionals with the skills and certifications they need to succeed across a variety of industries—from construction and roadworks to industrial and business sectors.

Professional Training & Certification Across All Industries

We are fully registered and comply with all the correct and needed affiliated bodies including Accredited with QCTO

(Quality Council For Trades & Occupations) as per the requirements, legislations and law in South Africa and our certificates of competency comply accordingly.

We provide expert training and certification for professionals across all industries.

In Loving memory of Nadine Troskie

At Violet Horizon Training & Certification, our purpose is to empower professionals across all industries with the skills, knowledge, and recognized certifications they need to succeed. We provide practical, hands-on training combined with industry-approved assessments to ensure every participant gains confidence, competence, and career growth. Our mission is to make professional development accessible, effective, and trusted for businesses and individuals alike.

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