Historic External Integrated Summative Assessment for Firefighting Completed by GRDM

On the 22nd of August 2024, the Garden Route District Municipality's (GRDM) Fire & Rescue Services achieved a significant milestone by concluding South Africa's inaugural External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA) for Firefighting. Facilitated through the Garden Route Skills Mecca (GRSM), the assessment marks a crucial advancement in the professionalization of firefighting services in the country.

The groundbreaking assessment, a collective endeavor alongside the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) and the Local Government Sector Education and Training Authority (LGSETA), took place at the Calitzdorp Hot Springs. Notably, the facility holds the distinction of being an accredited Training Assessment Centre by the QCTO.

Deon Stoffels, Chief Fire Officer at GRDM's Fire and Rescue Services, explained the essence of the EISA as a standardized national assessment where learners demonstrate competence in foundational and specialized skills against the designated Exit Level Outcomes of the firefighting qualification.

In preparation for this, the GRDM Fire & Rescue Services introduced the NQF Level 04 Occupational Certificate in Firefighting in August 2023, providing a comprehensive training program over approximately 187 days that encapsulates theoretical and practical education. The program's implementation followed GRDM's accreditation as a Skills Development Provider, obtained in September 2022 after extensive cooperation with the Fire & Rescue Services.

The qualification, which consists of 149 credits, responds to the country's need for competent entry level firefighters equipped to tackle a variety of emergency situations. It is particularly tailored for those keen to embark on a career within the emergency services.

Learners who successfully complete this qualification will be well-versed in emergency services, firefighting tactics, rescue operations, and more, thereby preparing them for employment in both public and private sector roles. Stoffels highlighted how the employment of these qualified individuals will not only benefit local communities but also strengthen the South African economy on a broader scale.

The completion of the program saw 24 learners from across the district – including Bitou, Knysna, Mossel Bay, Kannaland, Oudtshoorn, Hessequa, and George – now primed to contribute to the workforce. These successful candidates will be recognized at a passing out parade on the 27th of August 2024, readying them for immediate employment opportunities.

This landmark achievement is a testament to GRDM’s commitment to leading skill development in a collaborative and innovative manner across the region, reinforcing the area's dedication to safety and service excellence in fire and rescue operations.