National Certificate: Local Economic Development
An entry-level LGSETA learnership introducing Local Economic Development (LED) and the role of local government in growing local economies.
- Type
- Learnership
- NQF level
- 4
- Credits
- 163
- SAQA ID
- 36436
- Duration
- 12 months (provider-stated)
Programme overview
An entry-level LGSETA learnership introducing Local Economic Development (LED) and the role of local government in growing local economies.
Who should enrol
- Current LED workers without formal qualifications
- People entering local economic development work
- Community development and municipal staff
Programme purpose
This entry-level qualification introduces LED and the role of local government in it, building the knowledge needed for applied LED practice, and is the first step towards the National Diploma at Level 5.
Learning Outcomes
After completing this programme, you should be able to:
- Place LED theory and practice within relevant contexts.
- Apply basic economics, public administration and management, and development theories to LED in South Africa.
- Communicate orally and in writing with LED stakeholders.
- Explain the project cycle and research methods used in LED.
- Apply budgeting and financial management principles to an LED project.
Modules and Curriculum Structure
Core modules
Module 1Basic economic concepts central to LED
Detailed topic elements are specified in the official curriculum document.
Module 2Concepts and tools for LED
Detailed topic elements are specified in the official curriculum document.
Module 3Socio-economic development theories in South Africa
Detailed topic elements are specified in the official curriculum document.
Module 4Roles of LED stakeholders and role players
Detailed topic elements are specified in the official curriculum document.
Module 5Purpose of integrated development planning (IDP)
Detailed topic elements are specified in the official curriculum document.
Module 6Municipal departments and their inter-linkages
Detailed topic elements are specified in the official curriculum document.
Module 7Public administration and management principles
Detailed topic elements are specified in the official curriculum document.
Module 8Research methodologies for LED
Detailed topic elements are specified in the official curriculum document.
Module 9Project cycle
Detailed topic elements are specified in the official curriculum document.
Module 10Budgeting and financial management for LED projects
Detailed topic elements are specified in the official curriculum document.
Module 11Apply the budget function in a business unit
Detailed topic elements are specified in the official curriculum document.
Module 12Interpret basic financial statements
Detailed topic elements are specified in the official curriculum document.
Module 13Effective communication components and skills
Detailed topic elements are specified in the official curriculum document.
Module 14Negotiate an agreement or deal in a work situation
Detailed topic elements are specified in the official curriculum document.
Module 15Contribute to HIV/AIDS information distribution in the workplace
Detailed topic elements are specified in the official curriculum document.
15 of the 19 core unit standards are listed (titles paraphrased from the SAQA record).
Entry requirements
- Communication, Mathematical Literacy and Computer Literacy at NQF Level 3 (assumed learning)
- Open access; RPL available
NQF level and credits
NQF Level 4, 163 credits
Duration and study mode
Duration: 12 months (provider-stated)
Study mode: To be confirmed. Please contact us.
Practical learning and assessment
As a learnership, the programme combines structured learning with workplace experience under a learnership agreement.
Assessment
- Formative and summative assessment against unit standards by registered assessors.
- External verification by the LGSETA ETQA.
Accreditation and endorsement
LGSETA accreditation LGRS-Accredit-1666-220642023, valid 16 July 2025 to 30 June 2029.
Certification
Certificated through the LGSETA quality assurance process.
Career opportunities and progression
- LED officer or assistant in municipalities and development agencies
- Progression: National Diploma in LED (NQF 5)
Fees and intake dates
To be confirmed. Please contact us. Ask about fees and the next intake.
Frequently asked questions
Is the learnership funded?
Learnerships are often funded through SETA discretionary grants or by employers. Funding depends on the intake, so please contact us about current funded opportunities.
- SAQA qualification 36436
- LGSETA accreditation notification LGRS-Accredit-1666-220642023
Ready to grow your future?
Talk to our team about enrolment, learnerships, or training for your organisation.