Occupational Certificate, Software Developer, MICT SETA

This qualification provides learners with in-demand skills to design, develop, and maintain software solutions. It covers computing systems, programming, databases, web development, software development life cycle, cloud computing, data handling, and essential 4IR technologies. It also includes interpersonal skills, software governance, and design thinking principles to prepare learners for the future of tech-driven work.

The Occupational Certificate: Software Developer is an in-depth, accredited qualification designed to equip learners with the technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and theoretical understanding needed to build, test, and maintain software solutions for modern business environments. It is tailored for individuals aiming to enter the software development industry or upskill within the digital economy.

The programme includes the following learning components:

• Fundamentals of Computing: Learners are introduced to computers and computing systems, covering essential hardware components such as motherboards, processors, memory, storage devices, input/output systems, power supplies, ports, connectors, and peripheral devices like printers and mobile technologies.
• IT Safety & Maintenance: Learners gain knowledge in preventative maintenance, system safety, troubleshooting procedures, and techniques for operating and optimizing computer systems effectively.
• Operating Systems & Software Applications: Instruction covers managing files, configuring drivers, recovering systems, and using software utilities to enhance system performance.
• Networking Basics: Participants explore networking systems, both wired and wireless, including network operating systems and configurations necessary for IT environments.
• Cloud Computing & Security: A foundational understanding of cloud infrastructure and essential cybersecurity principles helps prepare learners for the realities of digital transformation and data protection.
• Programming & Development: Learners are introduced to programming languages and development concepts. This includes HTML5, CSS, JavaScript, Python, and object-oriented programming, as well as the use of open-source frameworks and libraries for software development and web applications.
• Database Management & Data Handling: Core database concepts, including SQL, data manipulation, administration, data visualization, and automated web scraping, are covered. Students also learn about big data, data governance, and legislation (e.g., POPIA).
• Mathematical & Logical Thinking: The course builds the learner’s problem-solving capacity through mathematical thinking, logic, binary conversion, coordinate systems, and algorithmic structures necessary for programming and computing.
• Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC): Students are guided through the full lifecycle of software development, from requirement gathering, feasibility, and design, to coding, testing, deployment, and maintenance, incorporating modern methodologies and agile approaches.
• Software Modelling & Documentation: Learners are trained to use UML (Unified Modelling Language) to map out workflows, class and object diagrams, interaction diagrams, component diagrams, and deployment structures — crucial for professional software development.
• Ethics, Governance & 4IR Skills: The curriculum emphasizes ethical software development, compliance with relevant legislation, and awareness of emerging 4IR (Fourth Industrial Revolution) trends. It includes governance frameworks and future skills for sustainable tech careers.
• Interpersonal & Innovation Skills: Learners develop essential soft skills including communication, collaboration, customer service, intrapersonal awareness, and the application of design thinking to foster innovation in technology-driven workplaces.

Entry Requirements:

• Matric (Grade 12 or equivalent, including A levels)
• Proficiency in English
• Basic computer literacy

This programme is ideal for individuals seeking a robust foundation in software development, with practical and theoretical components aligned to industry demands and future technologies.