Sugar Processing Controller

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Sugar Processing Controller. A Sugar Processing Controller achieves production targets and quality standards by monitoring, controlling and responding to operational variables, processing equipment, resource and by ensuring the mechanical integrity of equipment. A qualified learner will be able to: • Control sugar processing equipment to achieve planned sugar outputs that meet product specifications. • Control sugar milling operations and resources to achieve efficiency standards. • Monitor and enforce compliance with Safety, Health, Environmental Protection and Quality (SHEQ) policies, practices and procedures in a sugar processing plant. • Monitor and ensure the integrity of operational equipment and facilities for a sugar processing unit.

This qualification responds to the needs of the sugar processing industry for persons controlling the processing operations in a sugar mill or processing plant. The qualification addresses the industry need to provide knowledge and build competency for future training and will address the critical labour market need for broadening the pool of qualified persons in the sugar industry who are tasked with controlling the equipment, processes and standards in the production of sugar. The qualification supports a progressive pathway for the development of operational staff employed in a sugar processing and refining plant and promotes career opportunities in the sector for persons employed at equipment operator level. Past training practices for staff employed in related functionaries mainly focused on a range of in-house training programmes offered by individual companies with the support of the Sugar Milling Research Institute and the technical training facility of the South African Sugar Association, the Shukela Training Centre. This qualification recognises past practices that has worked well for the industry over many years, but further enhances these programmes through the establishment of an occupational qualification that formalises and structures practical and experiential learning components. This qualification provides an opportunity for new entrants, as well as those who have been employed in operator related positions, aspiring for employment in a managerial position in the sugar processing industry.

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 result or 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: Learners are required to have the following in order to be considered for admission: • NQF Level 4 qualification with Communication and Mathematical Literacy. Or • NCV at NQF Level 4.

• Control sugar processing equipment to achieve planned operational outputs within product specifications.
• Control sugar milling operations and resources to achieve efficiency standards.
• Monitor and enforce compliance, safety, health, environmental protection, quality and procedures in a sugar processing plant.
• Monitor and ensure the integrity of operational equipment and facilities for a sugar processing plant.