The NQF is a single integrated system which comprises three elements:

• General and further education and training - this element incorporates schools and FET colleges
• Higher education - this element includes universities, universities of technology
• Trades and occupations - this element involves workplace learning and skills development such as learnership

The NQF aims to:

• create a single integrated national framework for learning achievements;
• facilitate access to, and mobility and progression within education, training and career paths;
• enhance the quality of education and training;
• accelerate the redress of past unfair discrimination in education, training and employment opportunities.