Business Brief

As the education landscape continues to evolve, PPS recognises the importance of adapting its eligibility criteria to meet the changing needs of professionals. In this article, we delve into the latest additions to the PPS eligibility criteria, including streamlined approval processes, the inclusion of private institutions, recognition of prior learning and bridging gaps for specific degree holders. Join us as we explore how PPS is levelling the playing field for professionals across various industries.

WELCOMING NEW PRIVATE INSTITUTIONS

Expanding membership opportunities: Varsity College joins PPS

Responding to the persistent demand from our distribution channels, PPS is thrilled to announce the inclusion of Varsity College in our esteemed eligibility criteria. As a prominent South African tertiary education provider and a proud Independent Institute of Education (IIE) subsidiary, Varsity College has long been recognised for its commitment to academic excellence and career preparation.

Catering to a diverse range of students embarking on their professional journeys, Varsity College offers a comprehensive selection of undergraduate degrees that serve as a solid foundation for pursuing postgraduate qualifications or continuing education at other renowned universities. With its reputation for delivering quality education and equipping students with industry-relevant skills, Varsity College has become a preferred choice for many aspiring professionals.

By incorporating Varsity College into the PPS eligibility criteria, we invite professionals from various industries who hold NQF level 8 qualifications or higher from this esteemed institution to apply for PPS membership. This strategic expansion bolsters our exclusive society and enables our intermediaries to cater to a broader segment of the South African professional community. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where deserving individuals with appropriate qualifications can access PPS’s unparalleled benefits and services.

As we welcome Varsity College into our prestigious network, we embrace a new era of collaboration and empowerment, strengthening our position as a trusted partner for professionals nationwide

The South African College of Applied Psychology (SACAP): Empowering future psychologists

Becoming a practising psychologist is no easy feat, with limited availability in postgraduate programmes nationwide. To meet the growing demand for mental health professionals and improve access to quality care, PPS recognised the importance of assessing institutions like the South African College of Applied Psychology (SACAP) in 2023.

SACAP offers a comprehensive four-year Bachelor of Psychology Degree, equipping students with the necessary skills to deliver exceptional primary mental health care. This programme provides a solid grounding in registered counselling principles, theories and practices, complemented by research expertise in psychology. Graduates of SACAP’s programme can pursue advanced studies in psychology and related fields, both locally and internationally.

With its practical focus and diverse academic pathways, this degree opens doors to exciting careers in clinical, counselling, educational and research psychology and specialised areas like psychometry. As a result of the 2023 Eligibility Review, individuals holding a Bachelor of Psychology Degree from SACAP now qualify for PPS membership.

By embracing SACAP and its graduates, PPS is committed to empowering future psychologists as they work to meet the mental health needs of South Africans.

ENHANCING ELIGIBILITY: CONCESSIONS AND RECOGNITION

Simplifying the recognition of prior learning

In February 2021, the Eligibility Review introduced the concept of recognition of prior learning (RPL), also known as “Grandfathering”. This entailed waiving an undergraduate degree as a requirement if a public institution granted access to a postgraduate qualification without it. This occurred in cases where students were deemed advanced enough to pursue further studies before they completed their undergraduate degree. 

Another example is where students have completed a set of courses, diplomas or work experience, which universities deemed equivalent to the required undergraduate degree (as per admission requirements) and allowed these students to pursue postgraduate qualifications. The RPL precedent was set following the Eligibility Review in 2021. However, the principle was limited to only public institutions, i.e., universities. 

The 2023 review ensured that the principle was applied consistently across public and private institutions where the postgraduate qualification was completed. By allowing RPL to be applied by public and private institutions, it is truly the member’s highest qualification that grants them access to PPS.

The BProc concession: Treating BProc graduates with the respect they deserve

In response to recent developments, PPS has implemented a new concession regarding BProc degree holders. While BProc degrees are now recognised by SAQA at NQF Level 7, the Pretoria High Court ruling in 2022 stated that individuals with a BProc degree should be treated on par with those holding an LLB degree when it comes to practical vocational training contracts with the Legal Practice Council. Acknowledging the historical eligibility of BProc degrees for PPS membership, PPS aims to ensure fairness and equal treatment.

Under the new concession, PPS will grant membership to BProc graduates who are registered as legal practitioners with the Legal Practice Council. Aligning with the principle established in 2017, which removed the requirement for a member’s occupation to be linked to their initial degrees, PPS recognises the professional achievements of BProc graduates who have practised as attorneys and fulfilled the necessary criteria, including bar examinations and admission to the High Court of South Africa. This concession ensures that applicants who have transitioned into different occupations are not penalised, as their past professional accomplishments meet the eligibility criteria.

Conclusion

The 2023 Eligibility Review marks an important milestone in the evolution of the PPS membership criteria. By embracing new private institutions such as Varsity College and SACAP, new member opportunities arise and are unlocked for you as an adviser to ensure that more professionals gain access to the power of mutuality. The concessions introduced demystify the treatment of RPL and BProc degree holders which have long been frustrating. These changes reflect PPS’s commitment to inclusivity, fairness and adapting to the evolving education and professional development landscape. 

By Theo Lötter: Actuarial Manager: Product Development

PPS is a licensed insurer conducting life insurance business, a licensed controlling company and an authorised FSP.