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Becoming a field guide in South Africa is changing, with the Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA) enhancing their status.
To be in line with the South African government’s 2021 Tourism Sector Masterplan and Professionalisation Strategy, the FGASA is transitioning from a CATHSSETA-accredited training provider to a professional body recognised by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
About the FGASA: Nature Guide Training in South Africa
The Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA) trains aspiring nature and field guides and equips them with the necessary skills to lead the way for travellers in South Africa’s diverse ecosystems, including the country’s stunning safari destinations.
A FGASA qualification is based on the highest standards of professionalism in tourist guiding. From safari and cultural tourism to marine and astronomy tourism, this association is at the forefront of training professionals in the travel sector.
Since the early 1990s, the FGASA has trained over 40,000 field guides, establishing itself as a crucial player in the world of nature guiding.
Field and nature guides play a crucial role in South Africa’s tourism industry. When you go on a safari, you’re relying on the safari guide’s knowledge and professionalism to get you to the best sightings possible and captivate you with interesting facts about the fauna and flora you see. FGASA wants to make sure that visitors get the best safari guides in South Africa.
The Impact of FGASA’s Professional Status on South African Safaris
This significant transformation of FGASA into a professional body recognised by the qualifications authority is set to formalise standards and grow the tourism sector in South Africa.
“By professionalising this sector, we’re not only supporting the guides but also contributing to the overall growth and competitiveness of South Africa’s tourism industry,” says FGASA Managing Director Michelle du Plessis.
This shift also aims to better represent the interests of field guides and advocate for their professional development, ensuring that the industry’s needs are continually met.
Part of this transition will see FGASA cease providing entry-level accredited programmes by mid-2026. Aspiring field guides will need to obtain qualifications through the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO).
As this shift progresses, FGASA will complete the registration process to become a professional body with the SAQA and enter a new chapter in its stellar story. This will bring the field guide profession in South Africa in line with other recognised professions and ensure a greater number of highly skilled professionals in the tourism sector.
Written by Paula Rabeling
• Travel Writer
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Written by Paula Rabeling
• Travel Writer
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