Sugar Processing Machine Operator

The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Sugar Processing Machine Operator. A Sugar Processing Machine Operator attends to the operation of equipment used in a sugar processing plant and maintains the consistent availability of processed material to required standards and volumes. A qualified learner will be able to: • Operate pre-set sugar processing equipment in a sugar mill. • Operate programmable sugar processing equipment in a sugar mill. • Operate a bank of inter-linked equipment that functions in sequence in a sugar mill. • Perform work activities in accordance with occupational safety, health and quality requirements.

Sugar Processing Machine Operators are employed by enterprises involved in processing raw sugar cane into sugar and a range of by-products. Persons currently employed in operational positions, as well as persons seeking to enter the sugar milling industry, will benefit from this qualification. The sugar milling industry has long been established as a key component of the value chain of the agricultural sector. South Africa has been producing sugar and sugar by-products for many years, for consumption by the both the local and the international markets. The maintenance of efficiencies and quality standards in sugar production has a marked impact on the production costs of sugar products and resulting consumer pricing. The Sugar Processing Machine Operator fulfils a key role in the production of sugar and sugar by-products used by various consumer markets. 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.

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: • NQF Level 1 with Mathematics.

• Operate pre-set sugar processing equipment in a sugar mill.
• Operate programmable sugar processing equipment in a sugar mill.
• Operate a series of inter linked equipment that functions in sequence in a sugar mill.
• Meet occupational health, safety and quality standards.