Students urged to verify accreditation of training institutions

With the students having received their 2009 matric results and now ready to pursue training in various fields, the National Department of Health would like to advise students to verify the accreditation of any institutions before they register for courses in the health sciences.

Previously, the Department has received reports of students enrolling for courses such as nursing and emergency medical care only for them to get certificates and diplomas that are worthless from such unrecognised institutions.

The Department fully encourages students to pursue training in the health discipline but should do so with institutions that are recognised and are not out to mislead prospective trainees. Health care training is a very critical discipline that requires the upholding of specific standards that are provided only be accredited institutions. On its part, the Department remains committed to the upholding of these standards while also seeking to protect students from being cheated out of their hard-earned cash.

To verify whether a training institutions is accredited students are advised to contact the following professional bodies: South African Nursing Council (012 420-1000), South African Pharmacy Council (012 319-8506) and the Health Professions Council of South Africa (012 338-9368).

Only people with qualifications from accredited training institutions can qualify for employment as health care workers in South Africa.

For more information please contact Fidel Hadebe on 012 312-0663 or 079 517-3333.

Issued by the National Department of Health.