iptgsa professional body application · after many years of consultation and failures the final...

IPTGSA

Professional Body

Application

www.iptgsa.org

The Institute for Professional Tourist Guides of Southern Africa

February 2015

http://www.iptgsa.org/

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The Institute of Professional

Tourist Guides of Southern Africa P.O. Box 53 , Bergbron Johannesburg 1712 . Tel No: 011 477 4612, Fax No: 086 5117679

Email: [email protected], Website: www.iptgsa.org

18 February 2015

To: Mr. Jody Cedras SAQA House 1067 Arcadia Street Hatfield Pretoria

Application for Registration of Professional Body for IPTGSA

Included, please find all relevant documents for the application of the Institute of Professional Tourist Guides of Southern Africa to register as the professional body representing all registered tourist guides nationally in South Africa. After many years of consultation and failures the final application is now placed before the SAQA panel for approval and the IPTGSA committee hopes that all requirements are met. If there is any clarity required please do contact the committee for required support. We do hope that the SAQA application board would look at our application favorably. Regards Johan van Biljon Chairman IPTGSA 083 6551997

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The Institute believes that the South African tourism sector, as a key economic

and social engine of development, requires a strong Tourist Guiding thrust to

ensure equitable and responsible tourism growth and transformation. To achieve

this, Tourist Guiding has to be elevated to a national priority as a professional

body and sector to impact meaningfully on the tourism value chain.

In order for Tourist Guiding to be a fully recognised and have proper

representation as a leading stakeholder in the development of tourism in South

Africa in general, but Professional Tourist Guiding in particular, support for this

establishment as a national body, representing the interests and values of tourist

guides in South Africa, is of vital importance. To this effect a national

independent body will be established based on strong professional and ethical

codes of conduct. Such Tourist Guides, whatever their specialisation, shall be

included in terms of a constitution and the definition of the Tourism Bill (Act 3 of

2014) of South Africa, and/or any subsequent amendments. Such a body shall be

named “The Institute of Professional Tourist Guides of Southern Africa”.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

APPLICATION INTRO 2

SAQA APPLICATION FORM 4

ANNEXURE A 9

ANNEXURE B 10

LEGAL

TOURISM BILL (ACT 3 2014) CHAPTER 6 –TOURIST GUIDING 12

IPTGSA CONSTITUTION 18

THE TOURIST GUIDE CODE OF CONDUCT AND ETHICS 24

ORGANISATIONAL

ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE 25

ORGANOGRAM 26

MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENTS AND PROCEDURES 27

CAREER PATH DEVELOPMENT 31

MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS 32

POLICIES AND FORMS

DICPLINARY POLICE 33

PANEL INTERVIEW POLICY 37

ADDRESS VERIFICATION 38

NPC REGISTRATION DOCUMENTS 39

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION SUPPORT DOCUMENTS 43

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REPORT TO BE RECOGNISED AS A PROFESSIONAL BODY (PB) BY SAQA COVER PAGE

PLEASE NOTE:

Check Annexure A to ensure that you have submitted all the required supporting documents.

You need not attach the requested documents if they have been submitted to SAQA already.

Complete Annexure B ‘Professional Designation Details’ for each designation.

Name of Professional Body

The Institute of Professional Tourist Guides of Southern Africa

1.1. Physical Address

No and Street 31 Washington Drive

Suburb Northcliff ext 25

Town/City Johannesburg

Province Gauteng

Postal Code 1709

1.2. Postal Address

Private Bag/ PO Box No

PO Box 53

Suburb Bergbron

Town/City Roodepoort

Province Gauteng

Postal Code 1712

1.3. Contact Person’s Name

Johan Van Biljon

1.4. Contact Person’s Telephone No

011 477 4612

1.5. Contact Person’s Facsimile No

086 511 7679

1.6. Contact Person’s E-Mail Address

[email protected] or [email protected]

1.7. Web Address of Professional Body, if applicable

www.iptgsa.org

1.8. Company Registration Number

2011/109026/08 NPC

1.9. Start-up Date of Professional Body

20 June 2014

1.10. Date of Approval by highest decision- making structure

20 June 2014 Inaugural meeting

1.11. Signature (CEO/Principal Officer) : ...........................................................................

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REPORT TO BE RECOGNISED AS A PROFESSIONAL BODY BY SAQA

1. NAME OF BODY:


2. 3. BACKGROUND INFORMATION ON THE PROFESSIONAL BODY

State briefly what the PB is about, including the year in which the Body was established.

The tourist guide industry although regulated by the Tourism Bill is not a very coherent society and consists of many fragmented associations spread out over the whole country. For many years Tourist guides have been working to unite associations in one representative body and many structures have been set up but failed. (National Tourist Guide Ass. Federation of Tourist guide associations FSATGA) The solution was to set up a national organisation at which direct individual tourist guides could belong, immaterial of the location and affiliation to other local organisations. Much negotiations and discussions have taken place and the idea of the IPTGSA was work-shopped with all concerned. As IPTGSA is new organisation with complete different way of thinking an inaugural meeting with interested parties were called on 20 June 2014 whereby the basics where agreed upon and members and a structure were formed. Tourist guides that was passionate about the industry agreed to fund the start-up of the IPTGSA and the application to SAQA for official professional body recognition. The main membership drive will take place after official status of professional body is confirmed.

3.1. The objectives of IPTGSA are to:

VISION -To Promote and maintain a platform of recognised professional Tourist Guides in Southern Africa MISSION - Contribute to the development of professional guiding and invest and support members by improving their capacity and abilities. VALUES - Integrity - Ethics - Excellence - Professionalism

3.2. Other Professional Bodies in this sector with the same scope of practice, if any

At present there are no other professional bodies in the tourist guiding industry.

3.3. National Affiliations, if any

At present the IPTGSA is not directly affiliated to any other organisations as it will become the main national body once the professional body status has been confirmed The main associations that are giving its support to the IPTGSA are Gauteng Guides Ass. GGA, Cape town guides association CTGA, Off-road Guides & Tour Operators Association of SA OGATO.

3.4. International Affiliations, if any

On confirmation of PB the IPTGSA will become member of the World federation of Tourist Guide Associations -WFTGA

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3.5. Involvement in Education and Training

State the following if applicable:

Training providers accredited by the PB

Agreements with a Quality Council (QC) and/or training provider in the curriculum development of learning programmes

Quality Assurance Partner (QAP) and / or Development Quality Partner (DQP )status with the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO

Workplace training

IPTGSA will be the professional organisation of tourist guides and this designation will follow on from when a tourist guide is registered with a provincial body as described in the Tourism Bill (act 3 2014 ) chapter 6. So all education and training and quality assurance is regulated by the Tourism bill and the law of SA .Once the PB is finalised IPTGSA will get involved in up skilling tourist guides to get to a level of qualification to become a registered professional tourist guide

Tourism bill Chapter 6 item 51 Competence “ The competence referred to in section 50 must be determined by the South African Qualifications Authority in accordance with the national qualifications framework contemplated in the National Qualifications Framework Act, 2008 (Act No. 67 of 2008).”

4. EVALUATION AGAINST SAQA CRITERIA - PROFESSIONAL BODY

4.1. Legal Constitution How is the PB constituted? Name the statute, charter or constitution by which the PB is established

The IPTGSA is constituted by an accepted Constitution http://www.iptgsa.org/?q=node/1

4.2. Protection of the Public Interest

What systems and processes are in place through which the PB protects the public?

Public interest is one of the major assets that IPTGSA has, and an easy to use system has been implemented to help speed up the process. As IPTGSA is a national based organisation all functions are designed and maintained on a web based platform, www.IPTGSA.org This website does have “Accolades and Complaints” page where by feedback from the public may be received. A Direct cell no of the IPTGSA chairman or responsible person is also published for immediate response.

4.3. Membership Database

Does the PB have an electronic database with individual member details linked to designations, qualifications and CPD, as a minimum requirement?

IPTGSA been a national individual membership organisation it was decided that the complete structure of the organisation would be internet based, all members are all over SA and some in small or remote communities To give all members an equal opportunity to marketing, CPD and communication the internet is used as platform ,a complete database of professional Tourist guides is kept and can be accessed from any web browser Example under membership


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4.4. Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

What CPD activities must members complete to retain their designations?

Show the points aligned to each activity outlined above.

How does the PB capture/verify/monitor these?

Professional members will need to follow the CPD policy once accepted as a professional member. CPD credits are divided into 2 parts, IPTGSA sanctioned events and third party or self-education. Each member will have a continues online logbook where items are logged or registered for and these items are scored with credits, Total of 25 credits are required for annual renewal of designation. Complete detailed system see CPD http://www.iptgsa.org/?q=node/20

4.5. Code of Conduct / Ethics

How does the PB ensure that members comply with the Code of Ethics?

How the Code is made available to members of the public?

On Registering with the Provincial authority to get your registration number which has to be renewed every 3 years, a Tourist Guide code of conduct and ethics is signed by the tourist guide and is governed by the disciplinary code in the Tourism Bill (2014). IPTGSA has adopted the same code as it already stands for professionalism in the sector. IPTGSA only included one extra item in the code of ethics “ embrace and uphold the principles of The Institute of Professional Tourist Guides of Southern Africa” This code of conduct and ethics is displayed on the website for the public. http://www.iptgsa.org/?q=node/18

4.6. Unfair Exclusionary Practices:

What is the demographic profile of your membership in terms of: a. The four broad categories of race as defined in South African law (African, Coloured, Indian,

White). b. Gender c. Disability

As IPTGSA is completely indiscriminate to any application as tourist guides would have been registered by NDT on a provincial level and as long as the right qualification ,number of years, and panel interview is successful no person will be turned away The Inaugural group of members that backed this application is as follows White 37 Female 9 male 28 Black 4 males See annexure for details and pictures

4.7. Career Advice Information

How will the PB ensure that career advice related information is made available to SAQA?

Governed by The Tourism bill and SAQA competency a general description on tourist guiding can be found on our website and describes the career path of a Tourist guide as career advice and information http://www.iptgsa.org/?q=node/35

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5. EVALUATION AGAINST SAQA CRITERIA – DESIGNATION(S) 5.1. Rules for Awarding the designation

Briefly outline the rules to award, revoke and suspend designations.

IPTGSA is been placed there to award professionalism and not regulate entrance into the sector as Tourist guiding is governed by the Tourism bill. The rules to receive a professional designation is

1. Be and comply to NDT registration requirements 2. Have minimum of NQF4 training 3. Must have worked in the Tourist Guiding Industry for more than 5 years 4. Must attend a panel of peer review 5. Must submit to Continuous Development (CPD)

Full detail Annexure http://www.iptgsa.org/?q=node/25

5.2. Progression Pathway

Where there is more than one designation, list them in the order of progression.

There will be only one designation Professional Tourist Guide ( PrTG)

5.3. Underlying Foreign Qualification(s)

If the underlying qualification is a foreign qualification, it must be evaluated by SAQA’s Directorate for Foreign Qualifications Evaluation and Advisory Services (DFQEAS). Indicate whether the PB requires foreign qualifications to be evaluated and how this is made available to your applicants.

Tourism Bill Chapter 6 relates that only qualifications recognised by SAQA can be used to register as a tourist guide , so no foreign qualification will be accepted

5.4. Designation Title(s): Designation title

Professional Tourist Guide ( PrTG)

For each designation title state-

Underlying Qualification(s)

Minimum SAQA approved NQF4 Tourist Guiding and registration with Provincial Authority

Experiential Learning and Practical Experience

Minimum of actual proven tourist guiding work experience for 5 years.

Board/ Admission Examination/Assessment

Panel assessment Annexure http://www.iptgsa.org/?q=node/37

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Requirements

25 Credits annually and an internet logbook based recognition system Annexure http://www.iptgsa.org/?q=node/20

Application of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

RPL is accommodated and tested in the Tourism bill and there does not impact on this designation.

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Annexure A Supporting Documents Check List

No Documents Tick

1 Constitution or Statute

2 Membership admission policy

3 Any formal agreements with providers ( Universities, Colleges, Private providers, etc.) and/or the Quality Councils (QCs) and/or workplaces

Professional Tourist Guides are regulated by The Tourism Bill which specifies training provider requirements

Providers

QCs

Workplaces

4 Board / Executive members (Name, ID number & term of office) Include the Terms of reference for the Board and the various sub-committees

5 Continuing Professional Development ( CPD) Policy

6 Designation awarding policy (Panel Interview)

7 Disciplinary Policy Procedure (DP) and Appeals Policy Process (AP) DPP

APP

8 Latest audited financial statement IPTGSA is a start-up organisation and don’t have any audited Statements as yet

9 Policy on foreign qualifications No policy is required as it is regulated by the Tourism Bill 2014

10 Proof of physical address

11 Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Policy No policy is required as it is regulated by the Tourism Bill 2014

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Report on members admitted in the last three years with reference to the demographics.

13 Organogram (Management and administrative staff)

14 Registration with Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) or the Department of Social Development (DSD)

15 Tax certificate

16 Transformation plan

Not Applicable

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Agreement with other bodies, national and international National

International

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Annexure B Professional Designation Details [Please note that the designation information provided underneath will be posted on the SAQA website as is]

Name of Professional Body The Institute of Professional Tourist Guides of Southern Africa

Designation Title Professional Tourist Guide (PrTG)

Short Description:

A registered Tourist Guide with experience and passion for South Africa and people is a candidate for the designation, Professional Tourist Guide

Criteria for obtaining the Professional Designation

Registered Tourist Guide with Provincial authority Minimum NQF4 guiding qualification 5 years of experience and passion

Academic Component

Competency is recognised in the Tourism Bill (Act 3 2014) as SAQA recognised tourist guide training

Practical/Workplace Experience

Minimum of 5 year proven dedication and passion to the Tourist Guiding sector after tourist guide registration.

Board Examination/Competency Assessment

Panel Review.

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Criteria for retaining the professional designation In order to ensure the currency of professional knowledge and to retain the Professional Designation, the professional must comply with the following minimum requirements

Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

Minimum of 25 CPD credits to be acquired annually to be able to renew designation.

Code of Conduct

The Code of Conduct is the same as signed when registering as a tourist guide with provincial authority.

Membership Fees

Professional Membership- R1200 annually. Aspirant Membership- R600 annually (No designation). Honorary Membership- Free after 10 years of continuous membership.

Professional designation progression pathway

List from the lowest to the highest

Only one Designation – Professional Tourist Guide. ( PrTG )

For more information on this Professional Designation, please visit our website at www.iptgsa.org

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Tourism Bill (Act 3 of 2014)

CHAPTER 6 (extract of Chapter 6 of Tourism Bill (Act 3 of 2014) pertaining to Tourist Guides)

TOURIST GUIDES

National Registrar of Tourist Guides

48.

1. The Minister must appoint a suitably qualified officer in the Department as the National Registrar

of Tourist Guides and publish his or her name in the Gazette.

2. The National Registrar must—

o (a) maintain a central database of all tourist guides registered by Provincial Registrars in

terms of section 50;

o (b) prepare a code of conduct and ethics for tourist guides in accordance with section 52;

o (c) hear and determine appeals and review irregularities under section 56;

o (d) monitor trends in the tourist guiding sector by conducting research and analysis;

o (e) publish or otherwise disseminate information about tourist guides, associations of tourist

guides and any other information to promote and develop the tourist guiding sector

nationally; and

o (f) liaise with the Board, the Council, Provincial Registrars, tourist guides, associations of

tourist guides, education and training authorities, organs of

state, the South African Police Service, provincial consumer affairs bodies and any other

person or organisation to—

(i) facilitate the growth and development of the tourist guiding sector;

(ii) improve and maintain standards in the tourist guiding sector; and

(iii) cooperate on matters of mutual interest in the tourist guiding sector.

Provincial Registrars of Tourist Guides

49.

1. The MEC in each province must appoint a suitably qualified officer in the province as the

Provincial Registrar of Tourist Guides for that province and publish his

or her name in the Provincial Gazette.

2. A Provincial Registrar must—

o (a) for the purposes of section 50, keep a register of tourist guides within the province

concerned and must—

(i) record in the register the prescribed particulars with regard to each registered tourist

guide;

(ii) delete from the register the particulars of any tourist guide whose registration has been

withdrawn;

(iii) make the prescribed endorsement against the name of any tourist guide whose

registration has been suspended; and

(iv) inform the National Registrar of anything done in terms of subparagraphs (i), (ii) or

(iii);

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o (b) publish or otherwise disseminate information about registered tourist guides

within the province and associations of tourist guides and any other information to promote

and develop the tourist guiding sector within the province;

o (c) promote and develop the tourist guiding sector within the province in any manner other

than as contemplated in paragraph (b);

o (d) deal with complaints lodged under section 53;

o (e) act in accordance with section 54 when a tourist guide becomes subject to any

disqualification referred to in section 50(3);

o (f) exercise disciplinary powers in accordance with section 55; and

o (g) if he or she has reason to believe that any person, company or close corporation

contravenes section 57, lay a charge with the South African Police Service

.

Procedure relating to registration of tourist guides

50.

1. (a) Any person who wishes to be registered as a tourist guide must apply to a Provincial Registrar in

the prescribed manner.

(b) The application must be accompanied by the prescribed registration fee.

2. No person may be registered as a tourist guide in terms of this Act unless he or she shows proof of

the competence contemplated in section 51.

3. No person may be registered as a tourist guide in terms of this Act if he or she—

o (a) has been convicted of an offence in the Republic, other than an offence committed prior

to 27 April 1994 associated with political objectives, and sentenced to imprisonment

without the option of a fine or, in the case of fraud or any other offence involving

dishonesty, to a fine or imprisonment or both;

o (b) subject to subsection (4), has been convicted of an offence in a foreign country and

sentenced to imprisonment without the option of a fine or, in the case of fraud or any other

offence involving dishonesty, to a fine or imprisonment or both;

o (c) loses his or her South African citizenship or right of permanent residence or work permit

in the Republic;

o (d) has failed to pass the prescribed quality assurance process that a tourist guide must

complete not later than two years after the date of his or her last registration as a tourist

guide

4. An offence contemplated in subsection (3)(b) must constitute an offence under South African law.

5. If the Provincial Registrar is satisfied that the applicant complies with the competence for

registration as a tourist guide and that the applicant is not subject to any disqualification mentioned

in subsection (3), he or she must register the applicant as a tourist guide.

6. When the Provincial Registrar registers any person as a tourist guide, he or she must issue to that

person a registration certificate and a badge, which must be in the prescribed form.

7. Registration as a tourist guide is valid—

o (a) for a period of three years, reckoned from the date of issue of the registration certificate;

and

o (b) in all the provinces of the Republic.

8.

o (a) Any person registered as a tourist guide may before the end of the period for which he or

she has been registered; apply to the Provincial Registrar on the prescribed form for the

renewal of his or her registration as a tourist guide in respect of the ensuing period of three

years.

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o (b) If the person so applies for the renewal of his or her registration, his or her registration

must upon payment of the prescribed fee be renewed, unless he or she has become subject to

any disqualification referred to in subsection (3) since the previous registration or renewal

of registration.

9. If a tourist guide has since his or her registration acquired a competence contemplated in section 51

in a prescribed field of specialisation or an additional

competence within a prescribed field of specialisation, the Provincial Registrar must, on the

application of the tourist guide made in the prescribed manner, accompanied by the prescribed fee,

issue to the tourist guide a new registration certificate reflecting that competence and also a new

badge, which must be in the prescribed form.

10. Subject to subsections (11) and (12), the Provincial Registrar may refuse to approve an application

for registration as a tourist guide if the applicant’s registration was withdrawn on the grounds of

misconduct in terms of section 55 at any time within a period of three years preceding the date of

application.

11. Before the Provincial Registrar refuses to approve an application for registration under subsection

(10), he or she must, by notice sent by registered post or any other effective method, inform the

applicant of the possible refusal and the reason therefor and call upon the applicant to submit such

representations in connection therewith as he or she may wish to make, within a period specified in

the notice, which, in any case, may not be fewer than 30 days from the date of the notice.

12. Before the Provincial Registrar decides on an application under this section, he or she must consider

the representations, if any, made by the applicant in accordance with subsection (11).

Competence

51.

1. The competence referred to in section 50 must be determined by the South African Qualifications

Authority in accordance with the national qualifications framework

contemplated in the National Qualifications Framework Act, 2008 (Act No. 67 of 2008).

Code of conduct and ethics

52.

1. The National Registrar must in the prescribed manner, after consultation with the MEC, the

Provincial Registrars and stakeholder groupings, prepare and publish a code of conduct and ethics

with which every registered tourist guide must comply.

2. The code of conduct and ethics must include provisions requiring a tourist guide—

o (a) to take all reasonable steps to ensure the safety of a tourist whom the tourist guide is

accompanying; and

o (b) to render services which comply with any norms and standards determined under section

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.

Reporting of contraventions and lodging of complaints

53.

1. (a) Any person may report a contravention of section 57(1), (2) or (3) with a Provincial Registrar.

(b) The Provincial Registrar must, if the complaint discloses an offence, lay a charge with the South

African Police Service.

(c) In the case of a contravention of section 57(2), the Provincial Registrar must act in accordance

with section 54.

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2. (a) Any person may lodge a complaint with a Provincial Registrar regarding the misconduct of a

tourist guide.

(b) The Provincial Registrar must, if the complaint discloses—

(i) a contravention of this Act or any other law constituting an offence, lay a charge with the South

African Police Service and act in accordance with section 54;

(ii) misconduct not constituting an offence, including a contravention of the code of conduct and

ethics contemplated in section 52, act in accordance with section 54.

3. A Provincial Registrar concerned must within 14 days report to the National Registrar in writing the

result of any case dealt with in terms of this section. Action by Provincial Registrar regarding

disqualification of tourist guides

54.

1. (a) If a Provincial Registrar has reason to believe that a tourist guide has become subject to any

disqualification referred to in section 50(3), the Provincial Registrar must by notice, sent by

registered post or any other effective method, inform the tourist guide of the allegation against him

or her and call upon that tourist guide to submit such representations in connection therewith as he

or she may wish to make.

(b) The representations must be submitted to the Provincial Registrar within the period specified in

the notice, which may not be fewer than 30 days from the date of the

notice.

2. The notice must direct the attention of the tourist guide to the possibility of his or her registration as

a tourist guide being withdrawn.

3. The tourist guide may present his or her case personally before the Provincial Registrar or through

an adviser of his or her choice.

4. If, after considering the allegations against the tourist guide and his or her representations, if any,

the Provincial Registrar is satisfied that one or more of the

disqualifications referred to in section 50(3) are applicable, the Provincial Registrar must withdraw

the registration as a tourist guide.

5. (a) The Provincial Registrar may, by the notice referred to in subsection (1), suspend, for a period

not exceeding 30 days, the registration of the tourist guide

concerned, pending the decision of the Provincial Registrar under subsection (4).

(b) The Provincial Registrar must, before the decision to suspend the registration of the tourist

guide is taken, afford the tourist guide an opportunity to make representations to show why the

registration should not be suspended.

6. Subsection (3) applies to any proceedings for the suspension of the registration of a tourist guide

under subsection (5).

7. If the registration of a tourist guide is suspended in terms of subsection (5), the Provincial Registrar

must make the prescribed endorsement in the register of tourist

guides referred to in section 49(2), against the name of the tourist guide.

8. The Provincial Registrar must cause the names of any person whose registration has been

withdrawn under this section to be published in the Gazette and in at least one newspaper that

circulates in the province concerned.

Disciplinary measures

55.

1. (a) A Provincial Registrar must institute an investigation or cause an investigation to be instituted if

he or she has reason to believe that a tourist guide is

guilty of misconduct by—

(i) contravening a provision of this Act or any other law;

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(ii) contravening the code of conduct and ethics referred to in section 52; or

(iii) failing to comply with any condition subject to which he or she has been registered.

2. (a) A Provincial Registrar who institutes an investigation or causes an investigation to be instituted

contemplated in subsection (1) must by notice, sent by registered post or any other effective

method, inform the tourist guide of the charge against him or her.

(b) The notice must call upon that tourist guide to submit such representations in connection with

the charge as he or she may wish to make, within a period specified in the notice, which may not be

fewer than 30 days from the date of the notice.

(c) The notice must direct the attention of the tourist guide to the possible penalties referred to in

subsection (4).



4. If, after considering the charge against the tourist guide and his or her representations, if any, the

Provincial Registrar is satisfied that the tourist guide is guilty

of the charge of which he or she is accused, the Provincial Registrar may—

(a) issue a warning to the tourist guide;

(b) impose the prescribed fine, which may not exceed R10 000, on the tourist guide; or

(c) withdraw the registration as a tourist guide for such period, not exceeding five years, as the

Provincial Registrar may determine.

5. (a) The Provincial Registrar may, by notice contemplated in subsection (2)(a), suspend, for a period











Appeals and reviews

56.

1. Any person who is aggrieved by a decision of a Provincial Registrar may appeal against the

decision in question to the National Registrar in the prescribed manner, within the prescribed period

and upon payment of the prescribed fee.

2. The appellant may argue his or her appeal personally before the National Registrar, or through an

adviser of his or her choice.

3. The National Registrar may confirm, set aside or amend the decision.

4. The power to determine an appeal in terms of this section is not restricted to the merits of the

decision appealed against, but includes the power to review any irregularity alleged regarding the

decision.

Prohibitions

57.

1. No person who is not a registered tourist guide or whose registration as a tourist guide has been

suspended or withdrawn, may for reward, whether monetary or

otherwise, act as a tourist guide.

2. No person who has become subject to any disqualification referred to in section 50(3) may for

reward, whether monetary or otherwise, act as a tourist guide.

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3. No person, company or close corporation may for the promotion of any business undertaking

conducted by him, her or it, employ or continue to employ as a tourist guide any person who is not

a registered tourist guide or whose registration as a tourist guide has been suspended or withdrawn

or who has become subject to a disqualification contemplated in subsection (2).

Disputes

58.

1. Any dispute or disagreement between the National Registrar and a Provincial Registrar concerning

the performance of any of the functions contemplated in sections 49, 50, 52, 53, 54, 55 or 56

must—

(a) be dealt with in accordance with the principles of cooperative government and

intergovernmental relations referred to in section 41 of the Constitution of the

Republic of South Africa, 1996, and the provisions of the Intergovernmental Relations Framework

Act, 2005 (Act No. 13 of 2005); and

(b) whenever necessary, be settled in accordance with Chapter 4 of the Intergovernmental Relations

Framework Act, 2005

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Constitution

1. LEGAL STATUS The Institute has legal status as a corporate body under the common law of the

Republic of South Africa. The laws of the Republic of South Africa shall govern the Constitution

and the rights and obligations of members of the Institute.

2. STATEMENT OF PRINCIPLES o Preamble and Naming - The Institute believes that the South African tourism sector, as a

key economic and social engine of development, requires a strong Tourist Guiding thrust to

ensure equitable and responsible tourism growth and transformation. To achieve this,

Tourist Guiding has to be elevated to a national priority as a professional body and sector to

impact meaningfully on the tourism value chain.

In order for Tourist Guiding to be a fully recognised and have proper representation as a

leading stakeholder in the development of tourism in South Africa in general, but

Professional Tourist Guiding in particular, support for this establishment as a national body,

representing the interests and values of tourist guides in South Africa, is of vital importance.

To this effect a national independent body will be established based on strong professional

and ethical codes of conduct. Such Tourist Guides, whatever their specialisation, shall be

included in terms of a constitution and the definition of the Tourism Bill (Act 3 of 2014) of

South Africa, and/or any subsequent amendments. Such a body shall be named “The

Institute of Professional Tourist Guides of Southern Africa”.

o Vision: To Promote and maintain a platform of recognised professional Tourist Guides in

Southern Africa.

o Mission: Contribute to the development of professional guiding and invest and support

members by improving their capacity and abilities

o Interaction: The Institute shall interact and engage with government, the World Federation

of Tourist Guide Associations, Tourist Guide Associations of Africa, stakeholders and

private business as an equal entity, towards achieving synergy for a national tourism culture,

policy and strategy for Southern Africa as a tourist destination. The Institute fully recognises

the historical exclusion of the disadvantaged people of South Africa from participation in

the mainstream of the South African tourism industry. Mindful of this reality, it is a

fundamental principle of the Institute to cooperate, collaborate and support interventions

that ensure the inclusion and development of historically disadvantaged communities of the

tourism industry.

o Neutrality: Trust in seeking to constructively influence macro and micro tourism policies,

tourist guiding strategies and functions, the Institute will act from a position of political,

ethnical and religious neutrality and mutual trust as a fundamental to its structures,

proceedings and objectives.

19

o Consensus: The consensus principle is fundamental to the proceedings of the Executive

Committee in the belief that it best serves representative decision-making by the Institute.

o Objectives It is the objective of the Institute to:

Be a unified body representing Professional Tourist Guides, to which government

and industry can both refer to and negotiate with on all matters relating to the Tourist

Guiding Sector;

Deepen the value chain in tourism by working with government, training providers,

employers and service providers in raising the profile of Professional Tourist Guides,

to increase the level of professionalism and satisfaction amongst service users and

thus Southern Africa as a preferred tourist destination;

Offer members ongoing opportunities with monitoring of high standards of quality

in training, education and professional development;

Facilitate the provision of benefits to members including conciliation services,

collective representation to government and employers, remuneration and basic

conditions of employment, negotiations, preferential professional insurance and

medical aid rates amongst others.

3. DEFINITIONS AND INTERPRETATION In this Constitution, unless the context otherwise indicates:

o The heading to the respective clauses is for reference purposes only. They shall not be taken

into account in the interpretation of this Constitution.

o The singular shall include the plural and vice versa. The male gender shall include the

female and neuter genders and vice versa.

o The following words and expressions shall bear the meanings assigned to them hereunder.

Tourist Guide – a Registered Tourist Guide as circumscribed in the principal act

(Tourism Act of 2014) and subsequent amendments.

Member – any bona fide membership category as defined by the definition of a fully

registered Tourist Guide, as regulated and enacted in the Republic of South Africa,

and SADC countries, and who has thus joined the Institute. Any nominated and

elected person shall be a member in good standing,

Registered Professional Designation - Professional Tourist Guide (PrTG)

The Board - Five members of the registered NPC registered with the CPIC of South

Africa

The Executive Committee –The EXCO – the committee within the Institute

defined within the Constitution with persons duly nominated and elected.

A Secretariat will be established by the EXCO .

The Institute– the IPTGSA, as a registered and defined voluntary organisation of

tourist guides as determined.

Special Resolution – A Resolution is only passed by a majority vote of the EXCO.

Quorum- Quorum is understood as ten percent (10%) of full members at date of

notice.

In the event of quorum not being present a new meeting date is to be announced and

held within 30 days. Members in attendance at this deferred meeting will constitute

quorum. This may however not be applied for revisions to the Constitution and for

dissolving of the institute.

Notice - Any notices for all purposes of this Constitution, shall be in writing.

- The notice shall be deemed to have been received by the Member to whom it is

addressed by any of the following:

-- At the time of delivery if couriered or hand delivered, or

-- on the 7th (seventh) day following the posting in the Republic of South Africa

excluding the day upon which it is posted, or

-- at the time of delivery if sent via facsimile, or at the time of delivery if sent via

20

electronic mail.

- A notice actually received by a Member of the Institute shall be deemed to be a

notice in terms of this clause.

Year – The financial year of the Institute shall run 1st March to end of February

Budget – A budget as determined in paragraph 10.

4. MEMBERS The Institute shall entertain just three category of members within its ranks.

Membership Categories o Aspirant member An Aspirant Member complies with most application criteria save for

time related experience. Membership fee is 50% of Full membership.

o Professional Membership. Any registered Tourist Guide complying to application

requirements.

o Honorary Membership. The EXCO may grant Honorary Membership to any person or

organisation that, in its opinion, has contributed significantly to furthering the objects of the

Institute or have been a continuous full member for 10 years.

Obligations of a Member. Each Member shall abide by the Institutes’

o Code of ethics and conduct.

o Termination and disciplinary policies of membership.

o Members whom fail to comply with obligations every member agreed to, or act contrary or

counterproductive to the interests of the institute may be terminated. Such termination

notice is to be given in writing. The Institute reserves the right to recover monies owing by

the member concerned

5. NATURE OF THE INSTITUTE: o The Institute is a corporate body under the common law of the Republic of South Africa

known as a universitas personarum.

o The Institute has perpetual succession. Thus:

o The Institute continues as an entity notwithstanding changes in and of its membership.

o The Institute holds its assets distinct from its Members. No Member has any right, title,

claim or interest to the assets of the Institute by reason of its membership.

o The Institute does not have the object of carrying on any business that has for its own object

the acquisition of gain for itself or its Members.

o The Institute is not permitted to distribute any of its gains or profits to an individual.

o The Institute is required to utilise its funds solely for investment or for the object for which

it has been established.

6. POWERS, RESTRICTIONS AND DISSOLUTION OF THE INSTITUTE

Powers the Institute may exercise the powers conferred on it under this Constitution. This includes the

power:

o To appoint agents and employees as it deems fit.

o To acquire in any manner suitable property for the use of the Institute

o To borrow monies, subject to Clause 6, as required by the Institute in the performance of its

functions or the exercise of its powers.

o To secure the repayment of monies borrowed by it, including interest thereon, in any

manner that the EXCO may determine.

o To invest any monies of the Institute in any Deposit Taking Institution.

o To remunerate any person for services rendered in organising or managing of the affairs of

the Institute.

21

o To open bank accounts and, subject to Clause 6, to overdraw such accounts. To draw, make,

accept, endorse, discount, execute and issue negotiable or transferable instruments of any

kind.

o To apply for any law, order, regulation or other authorisation or provision that is to the

benefit of the tourism industry, either directly or indirectly and equally to oppose any bills

or law, actions or applications that may prejudice the interests of the tourism industry.

o To use such means as are required to publicise the objects of the Institute.

o To take out any insurance against any loss that the Institute may suffer.

o To merge with or enter into any reciprocal agreement with any other body or organisation

which has similar objectives.

o To employ, dismiss and remunerate employees. The Institute can further establish and

contribute to pension, medical aid and/or other like funds for the benefit of any employee.

This effort must also investigate the possibility to incorporate the members of the Institute.

o To collect and disseminate information about the tourism industry and about policies or

practices related thereto.

o To enter into any agreements for the purposes of the Institute and its members.

o Generally to do all such things as may be conducive to the attainment of the objectives of

the Institute.

o The Institute shall not have the power, save with the approval by Special Resolution, to

alienate any immovable property or real rights of which it is the owner.

o The Institute may not lend monies to Members, unless with the full approval of the EXCO.

Restrictions The powers of the Institute are restricted in the following aspects, namely:

o The Institute may not borrow any monies except to finance any shortfall or deficit, including

a temporary shortfall or deficit, in its funds, without majority approval from the Exco.

o The Institute shall not have the power to encumber any of its assets unless a Special

Resolution has approved been by majority of the Board.

o Financial Responsibility: Members of the Board shall be liable, jointly or independently, for

the debts and/or obligations incurred by the EXCO

Dissolution In the event of dissolution of the Institute for any reason whatsoever, on conclusion of all

financial matters, any remaining finances or assets are to be disposed of as follows:

o All assets and remaining finance to be handed over to full members on a pro rata basis.

7. STRUCTURE AND COMPOSITION OF THE INSTITUTE. The Inaugural Conference of the INSTITUTE. The Institute shall be established (in terms of this

Constitution) and by way of resolution at an Inaugural Conference adopting the constitutional

provisions of the agreed Constitution and confirmed by such a conference. Such a step brings into

being the envisaged structures and powers, rights and obligations of the Institute as a body.

Structures and Functioning o The Institute shall have a Board (herein "the BOARD") composed of Five bona fide elected

members. For sake of continuity three members shall be up for re-election after every two

years.

o The Institute shall have a Executive Committee (herein “the EXCO”) composed of bona

fide elected members. Such members shall serve for a 2 year period, by which time

members will nominate representatives who can be re-elected or newly elected.

o The EXCO shall be composed of a Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, and Treasurer and five

(5) additional members. In the event of any election failing to fill any vacant positions on

22

the EXCO , they shall be filled by the EXCO co-opting members. Decisions must be

approved with two thirds majority.

o The AGM shall be the highest and final decision making body of the Institute.

o The operation and functioning of the BOARD shall be in accordance with the constitution

and its provisions.

o The BOARD shall physically meet at least once every quarter in each financial year.

o The EXCO is to establish a Section 21 Company in terms of the Companies Act, 1973, for

the purpose of managing and/or controlling specific funded resourced projects and units,

assets and revenue streams to support the program of action for full members. The duly

elected BOARD will be the member-directors of the Section 21 Company.

o The EXCO shall also inter alia:

Define and formalise the internal policies and procedures of the Institute.

Structure and finalise staffing for the Institute on recommendations of the members

Set up appropriate committees and work teams, on the recommendation of the EXCO.

Approve the annual and 6 (six) monthly budget framework of the Institute.

Finalise the national business plan

8. ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING o The Annual General meeting (AGM) shall be the bedrock of the Institute’s structures and

shall be an annual meeting as envisaged within the Constitution.

o The Inaugural Conference shall elect the representatives to the EXCO and mandate its

representatives around the affairs and offices of the Institute.

o The AGM shall be launched following the Inaugural Conference and shall be an annual

event.

Proceedings

o The notice of the AGM shall be issued a minimum of 3 months in advance.

o Extraordinary General Meetings maybe called for by the powers vested on the AGM, the

committee or by ten percent (10% )of the members at date of submission.

o Motions or petitions by a member for inclusion into the agenda of the AGM are to be

submitted in writing to the committee by at least 60 days prior to the AGM. The member is

to furnish the major reasons and concerns to the committee. Secrecy or anonymous

submissions will be discarded.

o Member invitations with Agenda for the AGM are to be sent out at least 30 days prior to the

AGM date in an appropriate form of communication.

o The AGM is empowered to only deal with Agenda items as listed and published therein.

However additional agenda items submissions may be entered on the day .In order to be

taken up in the meeting, they need to attract a two third majority vote or the chairpersons

sanction before they are entered into for debate. This may however not be applied for

revisions to the Constitution and for dissolving of the institute.

o At any AGM a resolution put to the vote shall be decided by majority vote.

o The business of the AGM shall be to:

Confirm the minutes of the previous AGM.

The Treasurer will table the audited annual financial statements and report of the

preceding year.

The Treasurer will table the Budget for the ensuing year.

Appoint Auditors qualified to act as such under the Public Accountants and Auditors

Act 51 of 1951.

Receive the report of the Chairperson

Debate items listed on the Agenda.

Full members present will elect members to the EXCO provided quorum is present.

23

9. ACCOUNTS The EXCO shall endeavour to be kept such accounting records as may be required to reflect the

financial affairs of the Institute.

The Treasurer shall, in accordance with generally accepted accounting practice, submit an income

and expenditure statement and balance sheet for the previous year. This shall be forwarded to all

members. A copy of the annual financial statements, which are to be laid before the EXCO , shall

be presented to and approved by them prior to the AGM and such documents shall be available for

perusal, not less that 21 (twenty one) days prior to the date of the AGM.

10. BUDGET The Treasurer, in consultation with the EXCO, shall submit a budget 6 (six) weeks prior to the end

of each year. Such Budget shall reflect the proposed income and expenditure for the ensuing year

and the proposed year. Such budget must be presented and approved at the end of year BOARD

meeting.

11. AMENDMENT OF THIS CONSTITUTION Application for amendment to the constitution may be put forward by the committee or by a

minimum of 10% of members as of date of submission.

Amendments to the Constitution require a two third majority vote of members in attendance at the

AGM, provided quorum is present

Amended and accepted on 20 June 2014

24

The Tourist Guide Code of Conduct and Ethics

A Professional Tourist Guide SHALL:

uphold the principles of the South African Constitution, especially chapters one and two.

embrace and uphold the principles of The Institute of Professional Tourist Guides of Southern

Africa

at all times show willingness to provide optimum support and quality service to all tourists, and will

give tourists an opportunity to enjoy, or visit a desired destination.

in no way discriminate in rendering service to any tourist on any basis, e.g. colour, gender,

ethnicity, nationality, physical challenge, age, etc.

be impartial , unbiased and positive, and represent South Africa objectively.

be suitably dressed and presentable at all times.

be punctual, reliable, honest, conscientious and tactful at all times.

be a responsible driver, when driving as a guide.

carry out the programme / itinerary of a tour to his / her best abilities and be loyal to the company /

organisation that he / she is representing.

deal with conflict in a sensitive and responsible manner.

report any incident of injury or death to a nearby tourist authority or police station.

be knowledgeable and shall assist tourists and not provide them with misleading information.

in the event of not being familiar with, or being unable to provide information requested by a

tourist, consult with the appropriate authorities for assistance.

at no time be under the influence of alcohol or a narcotic substance, while on duty, and shall refrain

from administering any medication to a client without proper medical consultation.

never solicit for clients or gratuities.

be concerned at all times for the safety of the tourist.

wear the appropriate tourist guide badge and will carry his/her registration card.

treat all people, cultures and the environment with respect.

25

Organisational structure

STRUCTURE AND COMPOSITION OF THE INSTITUTE.

The Inaugural Conference of the INSTITUTE.

The Institute shall be established (in terms of this Constitution) and by way of resolution at an Inaugural

Conference adopting the constitutional provisions of the agreed Constitution and confirmed by such a

conference. Such a step brings into being the envisaged structures and powers, rights and obligations of the

Institute as a body.

Structures and Functioning

The Institute shall have a Board (herein "the BOARD") composed of Five bona fide elected

members. For sake of continuity three members shall be up for re-election after every two years.

The Institute shall have an Executive Committee (herein “the EXCO”) composed of bona fide

elected members. Such members shall serve for a 2 year period, by which time members will

nominate representatives who can be re-elected or newly elected.

The EXCO shall be composed of a Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, and Treasurer and five (5)

additional members. In the event of any election failing to fill any vacant positions on the EXCO,

they shall be filled by the EXCO co-opting members. Decisions must be approved with two thirds

majority.

The AGM shall be the highest and final decision making body of the Institute.

The operation and functioning of the BOARD shall be in accordance with the constitution and its

provisions.

The BOARD shall physically meet at least once every quarter in each financial year.

The EXCO is to establish a Section 21 Company in terms of the Companies Act, 1973, for the

purpose of managing and/or controlling specific funded resourced projects and units, assets and

revenue streams to support the program of action for full members. The duly elected BOARD will

be the member-directors of the Section 21 Company.

The EXCO shall also inter alia:

Define and formalise the internal policies and procedures of the Institute.

Structure and finalise staffing for the Institute on recommendations of the members

Set up appropriate committees and work teams, on the recommendation of the EXCO.

Approve the annual and 6 (six) monthly budget framework of the Institute.

Finalise the national business plan

27

Membership requirements and procedures

Membership to the Institute of Professional Tourist Guides Southern Africa (IPTGSA) is a

professional designation to strive to with hard work and dedication. Professional status is not

just handed to a certain few, but earned by any tourist guide that has made guiding his/hers

profession.

Membership Categories

Aspirant Membership an Aspirant Member complies with most application criteria save for time

related experience. Membership fee is 50% of professional membership.

Professional Membership. Any registered Tourist Guide complying to application requirements.

Honorary Membership. The EXCO may grant Honorary Membership to any person or

organisation that, in its opinion, has contributed significantly to furthering the objects of the

Institute or have been a continuous full member for 10 years.

Membership will be annually and run from the first date when registration was issued.

Renewal requires to be done before expiry date as a break in continuity, for more than 3 months, will

constitute a resignation and full application will be required for re-registration.

The following criteria is required to make application to become a Professional Tourist Guide (PrTG)

1. Must be a registered tourist guide with NDT through one of the provincial registrars.

o Completed appropriate training course

o Received appropriate certificate.

o Completed First Aid certificate

o Registered at provincial government and have registration number

o Subscribe to the Tourism Bill (Act 3 of 2014) .CHAPTER 6 (extract of Chapter 6 of the Tourism

Bill (Act 3 of 2014) pertaining to Tourist Guides)

o Signed and acknowledge the code of conduct as detailed in the Regulations of the Tourism

Bill (Act 3 of 2014)

2. Must have qualified with minimum NQF4 Guiding Certificate.

o Must have competence as determined by the South African Qualifications Authority in

accordance with the national qualifications framework contemplated in the National

Qualifications Framework Act, 2008 (Act No. 67 of 2008)

3. Must have done more than 5 years in the tourist guiding industry.

4. Must attend a panel of peer review.

5. Must submit to Continuous Professional Development.

Procedure of Application for registration as Professional Tourist Guide

1. Register online at www.iptg .sa.org by clicking Create an account on User Log in menu.

o After scrutiny of your registration you shall be notified by email with your username and

password.

2. Log in with your username and password on www.iptgsa.org and you shall get access to an

application form which needs to completed in detail Click here

o You may request this form to be sent by fax or post if so required for manual completion.

3. After submitting the completed form and required documents your application will be loaded onto

the Institute system and scrutinised according to the Institute Criteria.

4. On the application been successful you shall be notified in writing on when your panel interview

will take place.

http://www.iptgsa.org/?q=user/register


http://www.iptgsa.org/?q=node/27

28

5. On successful completion of the panel interview and balance payment of R1200 for membership

you will be issued with a registration card and certificate.

Procedure of Application for registration as Aspirant Member

1. Register online at www.iptgsa.org by clicking Create an account on User Log in menu.

o After scrutiny of your registration you shall be notified by email with your username and

password.

2. Log in with your username and password on www.iptgsa.org and you shall get access to an

application form which needs to completed in detail Click here

o You may request this form to be sent by fax or post if so required for manual completion.

3. After submitting the completed form and required documents your application will be loaded onto

the Institute system and scrutinised according to the Institute Criteria.

4. On the application been successful you shall be notified in writing.

5. As aspirant member your details will be captured and placed on the Aspirant members list.

6. On payment of the 50% fee R600 your details will be displayed on the IPTGSA website and you

may take part in any event or educational promoted by IPTGSA.

7. Once all outstanding criteria is completed will the application run the process of Professional

membership.

Example of membership public display on IPTGSA website www.iptgsa.org

http://www.iptgsa.org/?q=user/register


http://www.iptgsa.org/?q=node/27

29

Aspirant members that support the application

by IPTGSA to become a professional body

Greame

Addison

GP5070

Admin

Admin

GP0000

Henri

Bartholome

GP2624

Robin

Binckes

GP0834

Hansje

Botes

GP3614

Colin

Christie

GP0965

Francois Gilbert

Collin

GP0265

Lucille

Cremen

GP3124

Dries

De Bruyn

GP2300

Joleen

Du Plessis

WC1189

Willie

Du Toit

GP2958

Russel

Frankish

GP0889

Faan

Gerber

WC2499

Brian

Gough Palmer

GP02115

Marezel

Grobbelaar

GP5320

Patrick

Hanratty

GP1724

Memory Mooketsi

Khumalo

GP2725

Helen

Malisan

MP1852

Lyn

Mansfield

GP2451

Laurence

Marks

LP0070

Vernon

Matthysen

GP1386

Chris

McDuling

WC6719

Joseph

Melamu

GP0208

Wayne

Milne

WC0530

Piet

Nel

GP3578

http://www.iptgsa.org/?q=user/4309

























30

Chantal

Pero

WC4298

Mark

Petzer

GP5028

JJ

Pieterse

WC6565

Robert Cecil

Rees-Gibbs

MP0892

Dawid

Rossouw

GP3514

Cheryl

Scott

WC2076

Baile

Sedumedi

Gp1777

Alex

Smit

GP2227

Ian

Stevens

GP3125

Fanie

Terblanche

GP0790

Koosie

Testmode

No number

Jean

Teumbo

GP5092

Gertie

Tuinder

GP2231

Johan

Van Biljon

GP0035

James

Vivier

WC131

Sam

Wenger

GP0580

Peter

Zangerle

WC7650

Henry

Zeiler

GP1038



















31

Career Path Development

MISSION Contribute to the development of professional guiding and

invest and support members by improving their capacity and

abilities.

INTRODUCTION Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is the means by which professionals maintain their

knowledge and skills as they relate to their professional lives.

CPD obligations are common to most professions and have become a necessity for tourist guiding if the

industry wants to improve its services. For the professionalisation of tourist guiding, a structured approach

to lifelong learning has to be adopted to help ensure competence. This has to include continual honing of

both knowledge and skills relevant to tourist guiding.

By giving opportunities to members of the IPTGSA to measure their improvement of skills and absorbed

knowledge, the Institute constitutes a platform where the needed lifelong learning, that should be part of

every professional tourist guide’s career, can be attained.

CPD can involve any relevant learning activity, whether formal and structured or informal and self-

directed. Therefore, the structures created by the IPTGSA enable tourist guides to update their knowledge

of the industry, obtain knowledge about new tourism products, develop their personal skills and gain

relevant general information/knowledge in more than one way.

IPTGSA IPTGSA will assist professional tourist guides to better themselves by creating a system in which CPD

points can be accrued. This can be done by attending group activities, venturing on solo explorations into

new areas, discovering new products and gaining new areas of expertise. The relevant learning activity/ies

can be formal and structured or informal and self-directed.

Members of the IPTGSA will be measured by the number of individually accrued credits in the year

leading up to the annual renewing of their membership.

Tourist guiding is a much individualised occupation; therefore, broadening one’s personal professional

scope through CPD is not as easily achieved as in other professions. Directed by their availability between

tours, guides can only attend organised group activities when they do not work.

Therefore, the IPTGSA has designed a variety of ways in which CPD credits can be accrued. A list is given

below. An online Logbook system is available to each member to log and score credits on an on-going

basis. Like in other professions, the suggested continuing professional development programme is based on

credits that have to be accumulated annually. The credit schedule is divided into two categories, i.e.

ITPGSA organised events and third-party organised events.

POSSIBLE WAYS OF ACCRUING CREDITS:

Attending official IPTGSA functions (i.e. AGM, Tourist Guide Indaba)

Assisting with marketing the IPTGSA

Attending courses, events and lectures set up/organised/initiated by IPTG in all major centres

Attending specific educational events set up/organised/initiated by IPTGSA

Attending courses and educational events offered by third parties that are accredited by the IPTGSA

Participating in activities not done before, with clients

Organising events and inviting fellow guides to participate

Attending lectures offered by third parties

Proof of regularly buying and/or reading relevant books

32

Proof of actively participating in social media debates.

CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT CREDITS

STRUCTURE

Twenty five (25) credits must be accumulated during the year of membership and proof of the way in

which the credits were accrued will be required on renewal of membership.

The following table supplies the credit value of events.

Membership Benefits

The Institute strives to give all members a positive benefit in being affiliated to the Institute of Professional

Tourist Guides of Southern Africa.

1. A professional designation, Professional Tourist Guide (PrTG) will be registered.

2. Collective marketing will be done on the behalf of members.

3. Contractual and legal assistance will be available to all members.

4. Collective bargaining and rate negotiation will be standardised.

5. On-going training will be supplied

6. Retirement, insurance and medical schemes will be looked into when member numbers is high

enough to sustain feasibility.

33

Disciplinary Policy

Introduction

Tourist guiding is regulated by the Tourism Bill (Act 3 2014) Chapter 6 where the roles and

responsibilities are regulated. On registering to become a registered tourist guide a person

needs to follow the Act for qualifications and registration formalities and a code of ethics is signed by each

applicant before been registered as a tourist guide.

Included in the Tourism Bill (Act 3 2014) Chapter 6 the provision has been made for a disciplinary process

(items 53-58) which is extensively described.

IPTGSA is only concerned with professionalism after a tourist guide has been registered and thus

completely incorporate the disciplinary process of the Tourism Bill (Act 3 2014) Chapter 6 in the IPTGSA

process.

IPTGSA Disciplinary Process

Independent structure is set up managed by an independent member of the EXPO.

The disciplinary structure will report directly to the Vice Chairman who will sanction any hearing

required.

The Disciplinary Committee will consist of the following 5 members (min 3)

o Chairman of the disciplinary structure.

o Vice Chairman of the EXCO.

o Independent member nominated by EXCO (speciality knowledge or language).

o Independent representative from the Provincial Registrar’s office.

o Provincial Registrar.

On receiving a complaint the Chairman of the Disciplinary structure will formulate and investigate

the infringement and report to the Vice Chairman of the EXCO.

The Vice Chairman will then make the decision to either sanction a full hearing or an internal

hearing within reasonable timings.

The hearing must be sanctioned or waived within 7 days of the Disciplinary Committee

acknowledged receipt of written complaint.

o Internal hearing: All matters relating to IPTGSA constitution and policies.

o Full hearing: All matters that are covered by the Tourism Bill (Act 3 2014) Chapter 6 and

the code of ethics as all these matters are under the jurisdiction of the Provincial Registrar as

described in the Tourism Bill (Act 3 2014) Chapter 6 items 53 -58.

A Tourist guide will abide by the decision made by the committee on all internal hearings.

o Sanctions will be applied as per the severity of the case, which could be

Written warning

Second written warning

Final written warning

Suspension and Professional de-registration

Dismissal and cancellation of Tourist Guide registration

o Sanctions imposed by the Provincial registrar will be followed as detailed in Tourism Bill

(Act 3 2014) Chapter 6 items 53 -58.

An accused may be accompanied or represented by legal representation.

34

Extract from Tourism Bill (Act 3 of 2014)

Reporting of contraventions and lodging of complaints

53.

1. (a) Any person may report a contravention of section 57(1), (2) or (3) with a Provincial Registrar.

(b) The Provincial Registrar must, if the complaint discloses an offence, lay a charge with the South

African Police Service.

(c) In the case of a contravention of section 57(2), the Provincial Registrar must act in accordance

with section 54.

2. (a) Any person may lodge a complaint with a Provincial Registrar regarding the misconduct of a

tourist guide.

(b) The Provincial Registrar must, if the complaint discloses—

(i) a contravention of this Act or any other law constituting an offence, lay a charge with the South

African Police Service and act in accordance with section 54;

(ii) misconduct not constituting an offence, including a contravention of the code of conduct and

ethics contemplated in section 52, act in accordance with section 54.

3. A Provincial Registrar concerned must within 14 days report to the National Registrar in writing the

result of any case dealt with in terms of this section. Action by Provincial Registrar regarding

disqualification of tourist guides

54.

1. (a) If a Provincial Registrar has reason to believe that a tourist guide has become subject to any

disqualification referred to in section 50(3), the Provincial Registrar must by notice, sent by

registered post or any other effective method, inform the tourist guide of the allegation against him

or her and call upon that tourist guide to submit such representations in connection therewith as he

or she may wish to make.

(b) The representations must be submitted to the Provincial Registrar within the period specified in

the notice, which may not be fewer than 30 days from the date of the

notice.

2. The notice must direct the attention of the tourist guide to the possibility of his or her registration as

a tourist guide being withdrawn.



4. If, after considering the allegations against the tourist guide and his or her representations, if any,

the Provincial Registrar is satisfied that one or more of the

disqualifications referred to in section 50(3) are applicable, the Provincial Registrar must withdraw

the registration as a tourist guide.

5. (a) The Provincial Registrar may, by the notice referred to in subsection (1), suspend, for a period








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8. The Provincial Registrar must cause the names of any person whose registration has been

withdrawn under this section to be published in the Gazette and in at least one newspaper that

circulates in the province concerned.

Disciplinary measures

55.

1. (a) A Provincial Registrar must institute an investigation or cause an investigation to be instituted if

he or she has reason to believe that a tourist guide is

guilty of misconduct by—

(i) contravening a provision of this Act or any other law;

(ii) contravening the code of conduct and ethics referred to in section 52; or

(iii) failing to comply with any condition subject to which he or she has been registered.

2. (a) A Provincial Registrar who institutes an investigation or causes an investigation to be instituted

contemplated in subsection (1) must by notice, sent by registered post or any other effective

method, inform the tourist guide of the charge against him or her.

(b) The notice must call upon that tourist guide to submit such representations in connection with

the charge as he or she may wish to make, within a period specified in the notice, which may not be

fewer than 30 days from the date of the notice.

(c) The notice must direct the attention of the tourist guide to the possible penalties referred to in

subsection (4).



4. If, after considering the charge against the tourist guide and his or her representations, if any, the

Provincial Registrar is satisfied that the tourist guide is guilty

of the charge of which he or she is accused, the Provincial Registrar may—

(a) issue a warning to the tourist guide;

(b) impose the prescribed fine, which may not exceed R10 000, on the tourist guide; or

(c) withdraw the registration as a tourist guide for such period, not exceeding five years, as the

Provincial Registrar may determine.

5. (a) The Provincial Registrar may, by notice contemplated in subsection (2)(a), suspend, for a period











Appeals and reviews

56.

1. Any person who is aggrieved by a decision of a Provincial Registrar may appeal against the

decision in question to the National Registrar in the prescribed manner, within the prescribed period

and upon payment of the prescribed fee.

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2. The appellant may argue his or her appeal personally before the National Registrar, or through an

adviser of his or her choice.

3. The National Registrar may confirm, set aside or amend the decision.

4. The power to determine an appeal in terms of this section is not restricted to the merits of the

decision appealed against, but includes the power to review any irregularity alleged regarding the

decision.

Prohibitions

57.

1. No person who is not a registered tourist guide or whose registration as a tourist guide has been

suspended or withdrawn, may for reward, whether monetary or

otherwise, act as a tourist guide.

2. No person who has become subject to any disqualification referred to in section 50(3) may for

reward, whether monetary or otherwise, act as a tourist guide.

3. No person, company or close corporation may for the promotion of any business undertaking

conducted by him, her or it, employ or continue to employ as a tourist guide any person who is not

a registered tourist guide or whose registration as a tourist guide has been suspended or withdrawn

or who has become subject to a disqualification contemplated in subsection (2).

Disputes

58.

1. Any dispute or disagreement between the National Registrar and a Provincial Registrar concerning

the performance of any of the functions contemplated in sections 49, 50, 52, 53, 54, 55 or 56

must—

(a) be dealt with in accordance with the principles of cooperative government and

intergovernmental relations referred to in section 41 of the Constitution of the

Republic of South Africa, 1996, and the provisions of the Intergovernmental Relations Framework

Act, 2005 (Act No. 13 of 2005); and

(b) whenever necessary, be settled in accordance with Chapter 4 of the Intergovernmental Relations

Framework Act, 2005.

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Panel Interview Policy

Panel interview policy The panel interview is not there to check the knowledge of the aspirant member but to test

the professional experience which the guide has accumulated over the last 5 ( or more )

years as a registered tourist guide . Questions and discussions must be based on

experiences of the applicant to determine if such a candidate is professional enough to

better him/herself and to promote this most important sector of the tourism industry.

Keeping in mind that if an applicant has reached this stage of the application all relative application

documents have been checked.

Registration process

1. Application of registered tourist guide to IPTGSA

2. IPTGSA confirms registration with province and NDT

3. Applicant is informed and completed membership form is supplied by Applicant

4. All documentation is checked by IPTGSA

5. IPTGSA sets up panel interviews in convenient locations and timings (at least once per quarter)

6. Panel will be convened and organised by member of the EXCO with membership portfolio

7. Applicant is invited to panel interview and final approval of application

8. IPTGSA issues official certificate and title at designated ceremony (where and when suitable)

Make up of panel

The panel that is to interview the aspirant member for final approval will consist of the following:

Min Five panellists

1 direct representative from IPTGSA EXCO.

o Chairs panel meeting.

o Supply all vetted documents of applicant for assessment

1 representative of local association.

o If no association available ,representative supplied by IPTGSA

3 registered tourist guides in the area where applicant operates.

o Pools of volunteer registered guides are to be compiled to facilitate members for panel.

1 Additional member may be included if applicant is assessed for a specialist need or language

competency.

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Address verification

The Institute for Professional Tourist Guides of Southern Africa in a newly started

organisation with the explicit function of being approved as the professional body for

tourist guides. In light of this fact only a few passionate members joined forces to get the IPTGDA up and

running so that it may do a proper application to SAQA.

Plans have been made to commit to permanent offices as soon as it is known that the IPTGSA approval for

professional Body has been approved by SAQA.

There are more than 8000 Tourist guides registered by NDT and have the potential to become members.

Due to so many failures in the past there is a reluctance to pay money before all approvals have been

received.

At present the office of the IPTGSA is been run out of the African Timeout tour operators premises and

will act as the registered premises for the IPTGSA.

IPTGSA

31 Washington Drive

Northcliff Ext 25

Johannesburg

1709

PO Box 53

Bergbron

Johannesburg

1712

Website: www.IPTGSA.org

Email: [email protected]

Office Tell No: 011 477 4612

Fax No: 0865117679

Cell contact: Johan Van Biljon 083 655 1997