The key role and function of an ABET practitioner is to enable adult learners to gain new skills, knowledge and attitudes.
(Policy Document on Adult Basic Education and Training, p.14)

Steps to becoming an ABET trainer


Acquire relevant qualifications:

It is generally recommended to have a relevant tertiary qualification in education, social sciences, or a related field.


Gain experience:

Consider gaining experience in adult education or training, either through paid work or volunteer work.


Complete ABET training:

You can attend ABET training programs offered by various organizations and institutions in South Africa. These programs will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to become an effective ABET trainer


Obtain certification:

You may consider obtaining certification as an ABET trainer. This may involve completing a specific course of study, passing an exam, or meeting other requirements.


Network with other trainers:

Connect with other ABET trainers to share experiences and insights, and to learn from one another.


Training centres for persons wanting to become ABET trainers can be broken up into 2 categories:

  1. Universities
  2. Private training centres

Upon completion of your training as an ABET educator, you may want to open your own ABET / FET centre. In this case, registration is required with the provincial education department. You can find out more here.

The South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) has stipulated the requirements for certain qualifications as follows…

Occupational Qualification: Adult Literacy Teacher
The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as an Adult Literacy Teacher. An Adult Literacy Teacher plans, organises and implements a well-structured programme or a series of learning events; facilitates a learning programme; designs, produces and/or adapts learning materials and additional learning resources (LTSM); produces, implements and evaluates assessment instruments, and profiles learners.

South African Abet Educators Union
Although they don’t offer training, the South African Abet Educators Union is a union for educators who are working in the Adult Basic Education and Training  (ABET) which is now called Adult Education and Training (AET). This union is affiliated to Federation of Union of South Africa (FEDUSA), which is the biggest non political affiliated federation in the country. Everyone across the country is welcomed to join this union.

Their contact details are…
South African Abet Educators Union
29 Merriam Makeba St
9300 Bloemfontein

PO Box: 466
Free State
Tel: (051) 4475365