FRAMEWORK PROGRAMME FOR RESEARCH, EDUCATION & TRAINING IN THE WATER SECTOR (FETWATER)
The First two phases of the Framework Programme for Research, Education & Training in The Water Sector (FETWater) programme focused on the development of post graduate modules within the Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM) discipline. During the first two phases of the programme seven (7) networks were established. Each of the seven networks developed modules and materials for training courses targeted primarily at postgraduate level. These training initiatives covered essential elements of capacity building and skills development for the IWRM sector. Uptake has been limited as the FETWater courses have not yet been linked to sector skills planning and delivery systems for professional and career development.
Against this background, the FETWater phase III was developed to facilitate improvements in:
• Linkages with formal skills planning and professional development processes;
• Establishing a FETWater Capacity Building and Training framework to improve course currency, uptake and funding.
Phase I established the IWRM agenda and addressed effective cooperation and the transfer of knowledge.
Phase II supported the evolution of training networks and demonstrated the potential of networks in knowledge transfer.
Phase III address the relevance, viability, and sustainability of the programme to ensure continued support beyond donor funding. FETWater Phase III focuses on improved alignment with sector skills requirements, certification of training outputs, and the marketing of services and products.
• Establish occupational profiles for the development of credible methodologies for consultation;
• Establish mechanisms for FETWater qualification registration with the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) and the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA);
• Develop a framework for occupationally directed programmes to facilitate registration of FETWater programmes; and
• Develop a FETWater guideline for qualification planning and registration.
FETWater course offerings have so far been driven largely by an academic, supply-side, knowledge transfer agenda. To improve currency and sustainability of FETWater offerings in the capacity building and training environment, an occupationally directed focus aligned with SAQA and QCTO requirements is required for course planning and registration. For FETWater training to have currency in the workplace, training offerings must be linked with the occupational framework for the water sector. Only when courses are linked to a specific occupation can registration proceed.
• Water planning and implementation;
• Water Monitoring and Assessment;
• Water Infrastructure;
• Water regulation requirements;
• Institutional management and water governance; and
• Water Use, services and sanitation.