Umalusi validates adult education through national assessment

Benchmark is an external assessment agency that focuses exclusively on Adult Education and Training (AET), and was established after recognising the shortcomings of the internal assessment process. It has an established three-year track record working with the Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) - a Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) responsible for the administration of skills development programmes for the mining and minerals sector in South Africa.

The need for an external assessment agency that standardises the quality of AET is paramount in South Africa. Originally, Pre-AET and AET levels 1, 2 and 3 did not require accredited assessment agencies to qualify the results of the learners. Assessments were conducted internally which lead to incorrect or fake results and a lack of real competency, which in turn, inhibited further training and development. By way of a practical example, internal assessments were not sustainable as a company or training service provider could not act as the referee and the player.

Benchmark designs, conducts and manages assessments. The assessment and moderation policies are governed by and comply with the National Qualifications Framework (NQF). Benchmark is passionate about quality education and standards and pride themselves on quick turnaround times and accurate results. By assessing results quickly and effectively, Benchmark is able to examine the achievements (and failures) of the adult and non-formal education and training being provided.

Other benefits of using Benchmark include:

• Availability and flexibility of assessments
  
• Monthly registrations
  
• Faster turnaround time - statement of results are issued within two weeks
  
• Certificates are issued within one week of the results
  
• Highly controlled processes
  
• Competitive pricing (which includes centre and learner registration, question paper distribution, marking, moderation of marking, resulting and certification)
  
• No annual centre registration fee
  
• Results tracking system

www.benchmark.co.za