WISA INITIATIVES FOR PROFESSIONAL GROWTH

t has been nearly a year since Regulation 3630 has come into effect – announcing that all water and wastewater works must be overseen by someone who has the relevant qualifications and experience to ensure compliance and best practice principles. This has been welcomed by WISA, as it empowers process controllers and improves water and wastewater services for the public. It is also nearly a year to go where all water and wastewater institutions must be compliant with Regulation 3630 (30 June 2025).

As the silent guardians that ensure clean, safe water reaches millions of South Africans, process controllers deserve personal development and career advancement opportunities. Their job can be demanding, requiring constant vigilance and a deep understanding of complex treatment processes. We recognise the challenges they face – long hours, working in sometimes harsh environments, and the pressure of ensuring consistent water quality. These are not easy tasks, and their dedication deserves our utmost respect and appreciation.

Process controllers will need to register with WISA, the custodian of the professional process controller designation. WISA will assist process controllers in maintaining their professional status by honing their skills. In addition, we will provide guidance and support to new entrants into the field.

Partnership with EWSETA

The Energy and Water Sector Education and Training Authority (EWSETA) is a skills development authority serving the energy and water sectors. It plays a crucial function in ensuring that the National Skills and Development Strategy is executed within the energy and water sectors.

I am proud to announce that WISA is implementing three programmes on behalf of the training authority.

• EWSETA Skills Programme

This programme is aimed at upskilling staff at various water boards and municipalities across the country. Persons successfully completing the programme will earn 50 credits against the NQF level 2 certificate on water and wastewater treatment process operations. This programme is well underway and is expected to be completed soon.

• EWSETA Candidacy Programme

Here, we will be evaluating, training and registering 100 professional process controllers across various water boards and municipalities around South Africa.

• EWSETA CPD Short Courses Programme

This programme involves continuous professional development (CPD) short course training interventions across water boards and municipalities, nationwide. They are aimed at process controllers, engineers and scientists who need to earn an annual amount of CPD point to stay registered.

WISA 2024 Conference

I am excited to see all of you again at our upcoming conference. This conference is a testament to our shared passion for water, and I am grateful for your dedication to this critical issue. If you have any queries about this event, please visit the website www.wisa2024.co.za or contact events@wisa.org.za