Fishing Hand

The purpose of this qualification is to provide the learner with the necessary knowledge, skills and experience to prepare the learner to operate as a Fishing Hand. A Fishing Hand assists with the handling of fishing vessel cargo, preparation of fishing equipment, the processing of fish as well as navigational and safety operations on-board a ship. A qualified learner will be able to: • Assist with cargo handling. • Assist with fishing preparation and fish processing operations. • Assist with cleaning and maintenance operations on board a fishing vessel or workshop. • Assist with navigational and safety operations on-board a ship.

The fishing industry is one of the prioritised areas for development in the South Africa. The industry is supported by legislation, national policies and strategies, inter alia the International Convention for Standards, Training, Certification and Watch keeping for Fishing Vessel Personnel (STCW-F). The latter was adopted at a diplomatic conference convened under the auspices of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO). South Africa is a member of the IMO Council and is expected to support this initiative. In South Africa, any person working on board a ship must be in possession of a Pre-sea Certificate issued by the South African Maritime Safety Association (SAMSA). In view of the aforesaid it became necessary during the revision of the Fishing Operations Qualification to ensure better alignment with national requirements as well as to create a pathway for learners entering the fishing industry, both on board a vessel and ashore in factories. This realigned qualification reflects the needs of the industry and sea safety competences which will open up opportunities for career pathing and life-long learning in the fishing industry. Target groups identified include school leavers or persons who have been working in the fishing industry without formal qualifications and who wish to formalise their skills and knowledge.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): RPL for Access to the External Integrated Summative Assessment: Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of results or by certifying a work experience record. RPL for Access to the Qualification: Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements. Entry Requirements: • NQF Level 1 qualification.

• Move and store cargo.
• Clean and maintain fishing gear.
• Process fish and clean and maintain fish processing equipment.
• Maintain and clean fishing operations machinery and machinery spaces.
• Perform navigational and safety operations.